Not every houseplant requires a green thumb and extensive gardening expertise. Below are some great options for beginners and busy people alike. These low-maintenance beauties will thrive even if you occasionally forget to care for them.
Try one of these houseplants in your home:
Anthurium: Striking glossy green heart- shaped leaves with red, pink or white flowers. Prefers medium light.
Arrowhead Plant: Bold, arrow-shaped green leaves that are sometimes tinged silver or pink. Thrives in medium light. Trim back as needed.
Bromeliads: Available in a wide variety colors with showy flowers and leathery, strap-like leaves. Grow in medium to bright light.
Cactus and Succulents: Known as some of the easiest plants to grow. All they need is a lot of direct sunlight and well-drained soil. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Cast Iron Plant: This tough houseplant will tolerate outright neglect. Virtually indestructible. Likes a north facing window or artificial light.
Chinese Evergreen: Smooth, glossy, sometimes variegated leaves. Tolerates low light. Available in a range of sizes.
Corn Plant: Upright plant with strap-like leaves. Prefers medium light. If it grows too tall, prune it shorter. Don’t worry – it will grow back!
Heart-Leaf Philodendron: Glossy, heart-shaped leaves trail over the side of the pot. Tolerates low light but thrives in medium light. Trim as needed.
Peace Lily: Deep green, glossy leaves and pure white flowers. Tolerates low light but blooms and grows denser in medium light. If the plant wilts, water immediately and it will perk up.
Pothos: Long, vining stems with glossy heart-shaped leaves. Trim as often as you like. Thrives in low and artificial light settings like an office.
Snake Plant: A virtually indestructible houseplant with upright, sword-shaped leaves. Tolerates low light and neglect. Water sparingly to avoid rot.
Spider Plant: Very easy to grow; requires moderate sunlight and slightly moist soil. Works well in hanging baskets and on plant stands.
ZZ Plant: Rows of dark green, glossy leaves on upright, fleshy stalks. Thrives in low light conditions and requires little water. Keep away from direct sunlight.
Houseplant Care Basics
Ensure your houseplants thrive by following these simple, low maintenance tips:
Light: Before selecting a plant, consider where it will live in your house and what type of sun exposure you have in that spot. Think about which direction the window faces. In addition, be aware of anything outside that might block or reduce sunlight.
Water: Over-watering is the #1 killer of most houseplants; therefore water only when needed. It’s simple: Stick your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels moist, don’t water. Dry soil? – water. If you’re unsure, check again in a few days. Remove water that drained out of the plant and into the saucer after about 30-45 minutes.
Indoor Temperatures: Houseplants like the same indoor temperatures that we do, but they do not like extremes. For example, avoid places on or near radiators and appliances that give off heat because they will cause the soil and leaves to dry out. Plants also do not like cold drafts; consequently, stay away from A/C vents and doors that open to outside in winter. Lengthy exposure to cold air can harm or kill a houseplant.
Fertilizer: Houseplants should be fertilized as follows:
- Light feedings starting in March
- Full feedings monthly from April through November
- No feeding needed December through January
Always follow the directions on the fertilizer you choose for dosing amounts and instructions.
Shop online for easy care plants at https://shop.hicksnurseries.com/
For additional plant care information, please visit our Educational Resources page.