HOUSEPLANTS FOR NEWBIES

Thinking about becoming a plant parent?  It can be a fulfilling and enriching task!  

Caring for plants is easier than caring for children or pets (we can vouch for that), and it is a great way to add some vibrancy and style throughout your home.  If you are convinced that you didn't inherit the  "green thumb" family gene, or if you have (unintentionally) managed to send a green sprout to plant heaven in the past, not to worry.  We will share some tips on the best house plants to choose for plant parent newbies, provide our recommendations for plant parents with busy schedules and suggest some ideal houseplants to purchase if your home or space is low on natural light.  

Read on below to find out more!

(also known as Snake Plant, Mother-In-Law's Tongue)

A Snake Plant (or Mother-In-Law's Tongue) is by far, hands down, one of the easiest house plants to care for.  This plant is great for busy (and/or new) plant parents and wins the trophy for low light spaces.  Although Snake Plants will thrive on light, these plants are very content in low light spaces and require very little water (you could water once every 3-4 weeks and this plant would be just fine).  Not only does the Snake Plant come in a variety of cultivates, it is also very striking in appearance.  As an added bonus, it helps removes toxins from the air in your home (benzene and formaldehyde).

 

(also known as ZZ Plant)

 

 ZZ Plants are super cool looking, super stylish and super low maintenance.  Growing a ZZ Plant is actually (dare we say), the perfect starting plant for the forgetful gardener.  These plants do much better if you actually (kinda, sorta) forget about them a little.  Much like a cactus, ZZ Plants do not need a lot of water.  If you notice that the leaves start to turn yellow or brown, it means that the plant is getting too much water.  If you water this plant once every two weeks, that is plenty.  The ZZ Plant is quite tolerant and is able to survive long periods of drought.   These plants can happily adapt to a plethora of light settings but do best in bright, indirect light.

 

(Aloe Vera)

 

People have literally been growing Aloe Barbadensis (more commonly known as Aloe Vera) for thousands of years.  Aloe is widely known for its' healing properties but also has a reputation for being an easy-to-care-for houseplant.  Since Aloe is part of the succulent family, it requires little water and maintenance.  Just plop this plant near a window that gets lots of bright light and water every 2-3 weeks.  If necessary, break or cut a tip off to use on minor burns or scratches.