At a glance

  • Light

    Bright, indirect light; tolerates lower light but growth slows.

  • Water

    Moderate; allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry before watering.

  • Temperature

    18–26 °C; avoid cold drafts.

  • Humidity

    Average household humidity (40–60%) is fine.

Care difficulty

Easy

Peperomia are forgiving plants that adapt well to indoor conditions. As long as you avoid extremes — too much water or too little light — they thrive with minimal care. Perfect for plant lovers who want greenery that doesn’t outgrow its space.

Detailed care instructions

  • Light

    Peperomia do best in bright, indirect light. Too little light causes legginess; too much direct sun can scorch leaves. East- or north-facing windows are ideal, or filtered light from a south/west window.

    • Variegated types need a bit more light to maintain patterns.
    • Solid green types tolerate lower light better.
  • Water

    Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry before watering. Overwatering is the most common problem.

    • Use rainwater if possible; tap water is fine if not too hard.
    • In winter, reduce watering as growth slows.
    • Ensure pot has drainage holes; Peperomia dislike sitting in soggy soil.

  • Humidity

    Average household humidity is usually sufficient.

    • If air is very dry (below 40%), mist occasionally with distilled water or place near a pebble tray.
    • Avoid misting late in the day to prevent prolonged wetness on leaves.
  • Temperature

    Keep between 18–26 °C. Peperomia are sensitive to cold drafts and shouldn’t be exposed below 12 °C.

  • Fertilizer

    During spring and summer, feed monthly with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Skip feeding in autumn and winter.

  • Soil & Repotting

    Use a well-draining, peat-free houseplant mix with added perlite or orchid bark for aeration.

    • Peperomia prefer to be slightly root-bound; repot only every 2–3 years.
    • Always choose a pot with drainage holes.

Common problems & solutions

What you see: lower leaves turn yellow.

Cause: overwatering.

Solution: let soil dry more between waterings.

Prevention: follow the “soak and dry” method, never keep constantly wet.

What you see: plant appears limp.

Cause: underwatering, or occasionally root rot.

Solution: water thoroughly if soil is dry; if soggy, check roots.

Prevention: monitor soil moisture; balance watering.

What you see: stretched stems with sparse leaves.

Cause: insufficient light.

Solution: move to a brighter location with indirect light.

Prevention: rotate pot regularly; provide steady, bright light.

What you see: soft, discolored patches.

Cause:
overwatering or fungal issues.

Solution: prune affected leaves; adjust watering.

Prevention: use well-draining soil; water only when topsoil is dry.

What you see: white cottony clusters, tiny flies, or webbing.

Solution (pet-safe): wipe leaves with damp cloth, rinse plant, or use mild soap solution; isolate plant.

Prevention: avoid overwatering (reduces gnats), check undersides of leaves weekly.

Pet safety: avoid chemical pesticides; let leaves dry before pets are near.