How to Read Light Like a Plant Expert
Stop guessing. Start growing.
Most plant problems start with one overlooked element: light.
Too much? Leaves scorch.
Too little? Growth stalls or the plant dies slowly.
Reading light like a pro doesn’t require a degree in horticulture — just the right tools and a few clear principles. Here’s how to get it right.
1. Use a Light Meter (Yes, Seriously)
Light isn’t just “bright” or “dim.” It’s measurable — and your plants respond to specific light levels.
A lux meter shows you how much light is actually hitting the surface where your plant lives. For most indoor plants, you’re aiming for:
Bright indirect light: 10,000–25,000 lux
Low light: Below 1,000 lux (a danger zone for most plants)
Direct sun: 40,000+ lux
Pro Tip: “Under 1,000 lux isn’t low light — it’s plant starvation.”
— Roots & Roasts
📦 Shop the light meter we use → (Amazon affiliate link)
2. Understand Window Direction
Your window’s direction determines the light intensity throughout the day.
South-facing = strongest, all-day sun
East-facing = morning light (gentler)
West-facing = afternoon sun (hotter)
North-facing = weakest, often not enough on its own
Use a sun tracking app like Sun Seeker to find your true orientation — many homes have odd layouts that throw off your assumptions.
📱 Try the app we recommend →
3. Adjust With Design (Not Just New Plants)
Design is your secret weapon. Once you understand your light zones, use subtle shifts:
Too bright? Use sheer curtains to diffuse harsh light.
Too dim? Move your plant 2–3 feet closer to the window. That small shift can increase lux by 5x or more.
Sheer curtains, planters, and grow lights →
“Your plant doesn’t need more water.
It needs more light.”
— Gerard, Roots & Roasts
Ready to Level Up?
Here’s everything we use to grow smarter, not harder:
🔗 Amazon storefront — every tool we trust