Will window film harm my house plants?
At the recent Calgary Home + Garden Show, someone asked us a great question: “Will window film harm my plants?” We’re pleased to be able to offer the answer in this week’s blog post. In many cases, if your plants are already receiving adequate light, window film will not harm them. It may take the plants a few days to adjust to the new lighting conditions, in which case new plant growth and flowering may be impacted slightly.
Have you noticed burnt leaves or wilted plants in your home on a sunny day? If so, you will notice that they actually thrive even better after window film is installed.
If you’re concerned that adding window film to your home will damage your indoor plants, consider moving the plant to an area of your home with less sunlight for a few days and see how the plant responds. Additionally, most nurseries or local agricultural agencies can provide advice on the amount of light a particular plant should be exposed to.
What types of plants need more light than others?
Typically, plants that are lighter in colour (variegated plants) need more light than darker green plants. Darker plants have higher concentrations of chlorophyll. That makes them better able to use the available light for photosynthesis.
What kind of light do plants need to grow?
So, here’s the kicker that most people don’t realize; Contrary to popular belief, plants do not actually need UV light in order to grow. Plants require only blue and red light (which are not a part of the UV colour spectrum). Blue light is responsible for encouraging chlorophyll production. This helps the plants create strong and healthy stems and leaves. Red light helps during the early stages of a plant’s life by assisting with seed germination, bulb development and root growth. It’s also responsible for helping a plant flower and/or produce fruit.
Does solar control window film block natural light?
Solar control window film is designed specifically to block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, it still allows natural light into your home. There are many styles and colours to choose from to achieve the perfect balance between natural light and UV protection in your home.
Contact us today to schedule a complimentary in-home consultation to help you select a film with the qualities that are most important to you. Also, if you’re the type that likes to talk to their plants, tell them ‘everything will be alright’ after our window film is applied.