Can I put a plant under or next to an AC vent?

An AC vent is a small wind tunnel of 16–18°C air with very low humidity. Plants that sit in that stream lose moisture from their leaves faster than the roots can replace it, so the edges crisp and the newest growth stunts. It also cools the pot, which slows root activity and makes overwatering more likely.

You do not need to move plants out of an air-conditioned room, only out of the direct flow. Place them beside the window rather than under the ceiling cassette, or on the opposite wall from a split unit. If the only spot is under a vent, deflect the louvres upward and choose a tolerant species.

Best near vents: snake plant, ZZ plant, golden pothos, Chinese evergreen. Keep away from vents: calathea, ferns, monstera, orchids and any plant that already shows brown tips.