Can pansies survive indoors?

Answered by Michael Wilson

Pansies can survive indoors, but it may not be the ideal environment for them. Pansies are cool weather plants that thrive in temperatures between 45 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit (7 and 18 degrees Celsius). Most homes tend to be warmer than this, especially during the winter months when pansies are typically grown indoors.

However, if you are determined to grow pansies indoors, there are a few things you can do to increase their chances of survival. First and foremost, you need to provide them with enough light. Pansies require at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to grow properly. If you don’t have a sunny window, you can use artificial grow lights to supplement the light they receive.

In addition to light, pansies also need well-draining soil. Make sure to choose a pot with drainage holes and use a good quality potting mix that allows excess water to flow out. Overwatering is a common mistake when growing pansies indoors, so be sure to water them only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Humidity is another factor to consider when growing pansies indoors. Most homes tend to be drier than the ideal conditions for pansies. You can increase humidity around the plant by placing a tray of water near the pansies or using a humidifier in the room.

While pansies can survive indoors, they are unlikely to live as long as they would outdoors. The warm and dry conditions of most homes can cause the plants to become stressed and more susceptible to pests and diseases. If you have a cool sunroom or a room with cooler temperatures and ample sunlight, you may have better success growing pansies indoors.

It’s worth noting that pansies are typically grown as annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one year. Even when grown outdoors, they are not long-lived plants. They tend to decline after a few months, especially in hot weather. So, even if you provide the ideal conditions for pansies indoors, they may not live for an extended period of time.

While it is possible to grow pansies indoors, it may not be the best environment for them. They require cool temperatures, ample sunlight, and proper humidity levels to thrive. If you have a suitable space, such as a cool sunroom, you can certainly give it a try. However, keep in mind that pansies are not typically long-lived plants, and their lifespan may be further shortened when grown indoors.