For years, there’s been a bit of a myth floating around that plants are a big no-no for the bedroom because they’re usually a bit on the darker side. But here’s the dirt: plenty of plants actually love those cool, low-light vibes! Plus, our leafy friends are great at filtering toxins out of the air, helping you get that deep, restful sleep we all crave. If you’re looking to add some greenery to your sanctuary, let’s talk about why cacti might just be your new favorite roommates.
Cacti That Are Perfect for Your Bedroom
Believe it or not, these prickly succulents are bedroom superstars. Unlike many other plants, they soak up carbon dioxide at night and release fresh oxygen while you snooze. They also add a cool, exotic touch to your space, turning your room into a mini indoor jungle.
To keep your cacti happy during the day, try to give them a sunny spot right on the windowsill. I usually recommend picking compact varieties that don’t have a super strong scent. These smaller guys don’t need a ton of light since they aren’t trying to grow into giants, and they’re incredibly low-maintenance. Here are a few of my top picks:
- Christmas Cactus (‘Schlumbergera’)
- Easter Cactus (‘Hatiora’)
- Orchid Cactus (‘Epiphyllum’)
- Spiny Cup Cactus (‘Acanthocalycium’)
- Living Rock Cactus (‘Ariocarpus’)
- Old Man Cactus (‘Cephalocereus’)
Pro Tip: Some leaf cacti, like the Christmas and Easter varieties, actually bloom at night with stunning red or white flowers. If you ever find yourself tossing and turning, you can at least enjoy the mystical sight of your nighttime oxygen boosters in full bloom!
The Bedroom: The Ultimate Winter Hangout for All Cacti
Beyond the specific types I mentioned above, your bedroom is actually the perfect winter getaway for almost *any* desert cactus. Even though these hardy survivors love soaking up 80°F to 90°F heat from spring through fall, they really crave a “winter nap” starting around November.
To stay healthy, cacti need a four-to-six-month break in a cool spot. Since most of us keep our bedrooms a bit chillier and unheated, it’s often the best place for them. Aim for a bright spot with temperatures between 40°F and 55°F to give them the perfect winter dormancy. Moving your succulents into the bedroom until February isn’t just about storage—it actually encourages them to grow those beautiful flowers later on!
Just a heads-up: To make sure they have a successful winter nap, you’ll also need to hit the brakes on fertilizing and watering until spring rolls around.
