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How much light is that spot?

"Bright indirect" is the most confusing phrase in plant care. Tell us about the window and we'll translate it into a real light level - plus the plants that actually thrive there. Figures assume the northern hemisphere; if you're south of the equator, swap north and south.

This spot gets bright indirect light roughly 400-1000 foot-candles

Great for most popular houseplants.

Shadow test: at midday, hold your hand a foot above the spot. A sharp, crisp shadow = direct/bright; a soft, fuzzy shadow = medium; barely any shadow = low light. It beats guessing every time.

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Light drops off fast as you move from the window - a spot 2 m back can get a quarter of the light of the sill, even if it looks bright to your eyes. Your eyes adjust; plants don't. When in doubt, move a plant closer to the glass and watch how it responds.

Not sure what your window offers? See the window light guide for which plants suit north, south, east and west.

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Run a plant blog or shop? Add this free light checker to any page - just paste the code below.

For the light you measured

Plant stands and shelves Get the pots up into the light - Aosom's plant stand range. Shop at Aosom

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