From our perspective as plants, light is our sustenance; it is the very source of our energy. For us Clivias, the quality and quantity of light we receive directly dictates our ability to photosynthesize and, ultimately, to flourish. The ideal room is one that provides bright, indirect light for the majority of the day. A spot near an east-facing window is often perfect, as it offers the gentle morning sun which is warm but not harsh. A north-facing window can also be suitable. We must caution against rooms with south or west-facing exposures unless there is a sheer curtain to diffuse the intense, direct afternoon sunlight, which can scorch our broad, beautiful leaves, leaving unsightly brown marks and hindering our growth.
We are creatures of comfort and despise dramatic shifts. Our ideal growing temperatures range from a comfortable 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Therefore, the best room is one that maintains a relatively stable, moderate temperature year-round. Avoid placing us in rooms that are frequently subject to drafts, such as near exterior doors, or in the direct blast of heating vents or air conditioning units. Sudden cold drafts can shock our system and halt growth, while excessive dry heat from a radiator will dehydrate us and stress our foliage.
While we are relatively tolerant, we do appreciate a moderately humid environment, which mimics our native subtropical habitats. The average humidity of a living room or bedroom is typically acceptable. However, you should avoid rooms that are excessively dry, such as a room with a constantly running fireplace in winter. Conversely, an overly damp and poorly ventilated room like a bathroom without a window can encourage fungal diseases in our roots and foliage. A room with good air circulation, but not direct drafts, is ideal for keeping our leaves healthy and preventing pest infestations.
Our growth cycle is paramount. To initiate our magnificent bloom, we require a distinct winter rest period of approximately 6-8 weeks with cooler temperatures, ideally between 45°F and 55°F (7°C to 13°C), and significantly reduced watering. The best house for us will have a room that can accommodate this need. An unheated but bright spare room, a cool sunporch, or even a slightly warmer garage with a window are excellent choices for this crucial dormancy period. After this rest, we can be returned to our prime growing location to begin flower stalk development.
Considering all these factors, the best room for our long-term growth and seasonal needs is most often a living room, dining room, or bedroom that features an east-facing window. These rooms typically provide the stable temperatures, good light, and gentle air circulation we require. For our mandatory winter rest, you must plan to temporarily relocate us to a suitable cooler space. Wherever you ultimately place our pot, ensure we are not sitting in direct sunlight for hours or in the path of artificial climate controls. A spot a few feet away from the window is usually perfect.
