Houseplants are having a serious moment lately as lots of people are looking to infuse biophilic touches into their homes. However, between keeping finicky plants alive and avoiding toxic varieties, the world of introducing live indoor greenery can quickly feel overwhelming. Just because photos of lush and leafy fiddle leaf figs may fill your Pinterest feed, that doesn’t mean that diva plant won’t send your real-life décor dreams wilting. So, before you impulse purchase something like poison ivy or a drama-prone palm plant, know that every plant parent can find low-maintenance varieties to thrive in their homes, especially with the help of an expert.

One of our favorite plant experts and content creators, Paige Tailyn, cultivated her plant passion thanks to cherished childhood moments nurturing vibrant rose bushes and hibiscus with her late grandmother. After losing her grandmother to breast cancer, Paige pursued her dream of bringing the tradition of bonding over gardening through her Blossom Effect initiative. This launched her mission to educate individuals on the joys of plant care while driving meaningful change. Today, the self-proclaimed plant enthusiast, collector, and educator continues empowering communities of color by making plant ownership and education more equitable and accessible.

• Expert: Paige Tailyn
• Instagram: @blossomeffect_ | @paigetailyn
• Houseplants: 154

Which houseplants should you avoid buying?

1. Calatheas

While extremely beautiful, these drama queens are very high maintenance and require humidity, adequate lighting, and specific watering.

2. Alocasias

If you are okay with raising a spider mite brothel, these plants may be for you, as they are notorious for attracting them.

3. Fiddle Leaf Figs

These plants can be quite finicky! They require specific light conditions and are sensitive to environmental changes. While these plants are notably challenging, I encourage all plant plant parents to give them a try as they may be incredibly rewarding!

Which houseplants are best for beginners?

1. Snake Plants

For those who are passionate about plants but may not have extensive experience, snake plants are an excellent choice. They are hardy, require minimal care and tolerate low-light conditions.

2. Monsteras

Monstera deliciosa, known for its unique split leaves, is forgiving and adaptable, thriving in various light levels and requiring moderate watering.

3. ZZ Plants

Raven ZZ, a variant of the ZZ plant, is resilient and can endure neglect, making it perfect for beginners. These plants not only add greenery to spaces but also offer a forgiving introduction to plant care, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of nature with minimal stress.

What are your favorite plants?

“Out of all 154 of my plants, I would have to say my personal favorites are: Monstera Deliciosa, Burle Marx Variegata, and Philodendron Melanochrysum,” Paige says. “Based on their unique looks, one would think they are high maintenance, but they are really easy to care for.”

What are your best plant tips?

Paige encourages novice plant parents to “trust your green thumb and get creative.” She reminds us that “you might surprise yourself” by being able to keep different species thriving for much longer than you think. Paige also advises using quality plant food, “your plants need nutrition just like you,” she explains.

And while suggestions like propagation and repurposing pots spark ways to unleash our originality, Paige gives us permission to view our greenery as decorative elements, too. By believing in your inner gardener while exploring inventive cultivation approaches, your plant parenting journey can blossom before your eyes.