Best Houseplants for Those Who Lack a Green Thumb

Neglecting the garden is one thing, but there is no way to ignore a dead or dying plant sitting sadly on a table or windowsill inside your home. If you lack the diligence to water regularly, fertilize, or uproot plants for winter storage, you are not alone. If you manage to kill the plants that your friend and family claim to be indestructible, then read on to get the low-down on low-maintenance plants from the experts.

- In the winter, air tends to be extra dry, especially if you use radiators to heat your home. Rather than water each pot around your home, consider letting your plants soak in the shower for a few minutes once a week.

- You probably don’t keep the lights on in your home for extended periods of time, so shop around for plants that are accustomed and even thrive in low light levels. Ferns are an especially good option, and if you plant them in a basket, they can easily be moved outdoors in the summer.

- Don’t assume that a windowsill equates into “full sun.” You may actually need to set your sun-loving plants closer to the pane of glass than you think. As a general rule of thumb, if you hold your hand by the window but don’t see a shadow, you lack sufficient sunlight for a full- or part-sun plant.

- Fight the temptation to overwater your indoor plants. Roots are prone to rot if the soil gets too wet. You can improve the drainage of you indoor pots by combining 1/8” diameter clay pellets with your potting soil.

- Cast-Iron Plant: this species is somewhat indifferent when it comes to levels of light and water. It grows low to the floor, but features eight-petal flowers and long leaves that can reach a foot in length.

- Strawberry Begonia: this small vine has small scalloped leaves and will send out runners during each growing season, making it popular as a hanging plant. The blooms are white, and the plant is particularly hardy in cold climates.

- Sago Palm: this short palm-like tree is native to Japan, and brings a nice tropical feel to any home. The glossy leaves are durable and the plant doesn’t require much water. The Sago Palm grows very slowly, so it won’t take over your living space. One word of warning – this plant is toxic if ingested, so keep it out of reach of pets and children.