They love low to medium, indirect sunlight. This is because they grow on the rainforest floor, where they're protected by a dense canopy.

Think of an east-facing window with gentle morning sun, or a spot a few feet away from a brighter window. The key is to avoid any direct sun! Direct light will quickly burn their delicate leaves, leaving them crispy and brown.

While they can tolerate low light, they won't thrive in a dark corner. Their growth will slow, and those beautiful, vibrant leaf patterns might start to fade.

A happy Fittonia is all about staying consistently hydrated! These plants are dramatic and will let you know immediately if they're thirsty by completely collapsing. Don't worry, they usually perk right back up after a good drink.

The best way to water is to wait until the top inch of soil feels dry. Then, water thoroughly until you see it draining from the bottom of the pot. Be sure to empty any excess water from the saucer so their roots don't get soggy.

Since they come from tropical rainforests, Fittonias also love humidity. If your plant's leaves start to get crispy, try placing it near a humidifier or on a pebble tray filled with water to give it a little spa treatment!

Fittonia plants need a mix that is well-draining yet able to retain moisture. This balance is key to keeping their roots from getting too soggy, which can lead to root rot.

The goal is to prevent the plant's "feet" from sitting in water, while still keeping the soil consistently damp, as Fittonias don't like to dry out. A good, light potting mix is perfect.

You can create a simple blend by mixing a high-quality potting mix with some perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage and aeration. This gives their roots a lovely, airy home. A little bit of peat moss or coco coir also helps the soil hold on to just enough moisture to keep your plant healthy and hydrated.