Houseplants 101
There’s something about a little pot of flowers or green plant that instantly livens up a home. If you’ve wanted to decorate your interior, or exterior, with some plants but have been concerned about your non-existent green thumb, then you’ll be pleased to know that bringing up lush and happy houseplants is actually quite simple. While not all greenery are created equal and some do require more effort, here we run through the care of four plants that are hard to kill if you apply the little bit of TLC we recommend.
1. Ferns
Care tip: As forest floor plants, wild ferns thrive on a steady supply of gently decaying organic matter. In the home, this means giving them a steady supply of weak fertilizer during the growing season. A weak liquid fertilizer or slow-release pellet fertilizer is perfect.
Light: These little darlings are delicate – ferns do best with indirect sunlight to shade; strong sunlight should definitely be avoided.
Water: keep soil moist, but not waterlogged. Misting is a great way to keep them hydrated and happy.
2. Calatheas
Care tip: Easy to care for, the calathea plant will have everyone thinking that you have a gifted green thumb. Groom your calathea plant regularly to keep it looking beautiful. Wipe any dust off the leaves with a clean, damp cloth. Mist the leaves to ensure that all sides of the plants receive humidity and moisture. Remove any yellow leaves to keep your plant strong and growing.
Light: moderate shade to bright indirect light; like ferns, they’re not the biggest fans of strong, unfiltered sunlight.
Water: keep soil moist at all times, and make sure your container allows for good draining.
3. Rubber trees
Care tip: In order to promote new leaves on a current rubber tree houseplant, cut a slit in the node where a leaf fell off. This will allow a new leaf to grow quicker.
Light: bright, indirect sunlight is best – like next to a window that has sheer curtains, for example.
Water: allow the soil surface to dry slightly in-between waterings. if you notice droopy leaves, it’s time to water.
4. Succulents
Care tip: Succulents are booming in popularity for two simple reasons: they are beautiful and nearly indestructible. Succulents should be potted in a fast-draining mixture that's designed for cacti and succulents.
Light: these cuties can seriously take the heat. give them the sunniest spot in your home. my windowsills are lined with them!
Water: water very sparingly. soil should be dry to the touch at all times, but if you notice that their petals are withering and puckered, it’s time to water.
Image: Getty