April 18, 2023 at 5:09 PM PST
Do you love the idea of houseplants, but are unsure if you’re ready for the commitment? While it’s true many plants can be considered extremely fickle and demanding, like a fiddle-leaf fig, there are plenty of low maintenance options available to turn your home into a lush, natural sanctuary. Here is a guide for beginner plant parents that features the top seven houseplants for first-time plant owners.
Benefits of Plants in Your Home
One of the biggest benefits of having plants in your home is air purification. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which helps to purify the air. Many plants have the ability to absorb toxins found in common household items, such as paint, furniture and cleaning products.
Research has shown that plants have the ability to boost your mood and reduce stress levels. By surrounding yourself in nature, you get to experience a calming effect on the mind that can help improve your overall well-being.
Things to Consider
The first thing to consider when purchasing plants is the amount of light in your home. Some plants require full sunlight, while others can thrive in low-light conditions. It is important to choose plants that match the amount of light in your home to ensure that they thrive.
Another thing that you’ll want to think about is the watering requirements. Some plant varietals require frequent watering, while others can survive on less. Typically, less is more when it comes to watering, and your plants will let you know when they’re thirsty by drooping. There is a window for trial and error. Most first-time plant parents make the mistake of overwatering, which can lead to root rot and destroy the plant.
If you have children or curious pets, there are some houseplants that are toxic if ingested. Before purchasing any plants, be sure that it not only fits your aesthetic, but also your lifestyle.
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1Snake Plant
Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or "mother-in-law's tongue," is native to West Africa and have a unique appearance with long, upright leaves that often have yellow or white stripes. This is a plant that is incredibly resilient. You can pretty much forget about and it will thrive. They do well in almost any lighting condition and only require watering once every two or three weeks. They also are known for their air-purifying abilities, which can improve the air quality in your home and boost your overall wellbeing.
2Spider Plant
Spider plants, or Chlorophytum comosum, have long, thin leaves that grow from a central rosette and can produce small, white flowers. One of the biggest benefits of spider plants is their ability to grow rapidly and produce new "spiderettes" or offshoots that can be easily propagated. This means that you can easily expand your spider plant collection without having to buy new plants. They’re incredibly forgiving and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from bright indirect light to low light. They only require watering once a week or when the soil has dried out, making them an excellent choice for those who are forgetful or don't have the time to water their plants frequently.
3Pothos Plant
Pothos, also known as Devil's ivy, is a popular indoor plant that is not only visually appealing but also low-maintenance. Pothos has strikingly green and variegated leaves that can instantly brighten up any room. It can be trained to grow in a variety of ways, including up walls, along shelves or draped over furniture, making it an excellent addition to any interior design scheme. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, pothos plants require minimal care. They can survive in low light and only require watering when the soil is dry to the touch. Pothos plants are also resilient to pests and diseases, making them ideal for new plant parents.
4ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a popular low-maintenance houseplant that is native to East Africa. With its glossy leaves and sculptural appearance, it adds a touch of effortless elegance to any room. It can grow up to three feet tall and wide, making it a perfect choice for larger spaces or as a statement piece in your plant collection. This plant is also known for its longevity, as it can live for years with minimal care. It is a slow-growing, drought-tolerant plant and can thrive in a variety of environments and lighting conditions.
5Rubber Plant
Known as Ficus elastica, you’ll instantly fall in love with its large, fan-like leaves and woody stems that give a striking silhouette. It has air-purifying capabilities, which means it can remove harmful toxins, such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air. It is a great choice for people with allergies or respiratory issues. They can grow up to eight feet tall. They are a perfect addition to larger spaces or for those who want to make a statement with their plant collection.
6Majesty Palm
The majesty palm, or Ravenea rivularis, is a tropical plant native to Madagascar that has become a popular houseplant due to its graceful appearance and low maintenance requirements. It prefers bright, indirect light, but can also thrive in low-light conditions. Additionally, it can tolerate occasional overwatering and does not require frequent fertilization. Its tall and elegant fronds can reach up to 10 feet in height, making it a perfect choice for those who want to add a touch of tropical nature to their indoor environment. It’s also safe to have around pets.
7Peace Lily
The peace lily, also known as Spathiphyllum, is a popular indoor plant that is well-known for its elegant appearance and air-purifying capabilities. This plant features glossy, dark green leaves and white, spoon-shaped flowers that bloom throughout the year. They prefer low to medium light conditions and only need to be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. This low-maintenance plant can grow up to 16 inches tall and wide. The white flowers also are visually striking, which adds to its overall appeal.
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