-Jordan Capps-
Are you looking to create an indoor oasis that will make all the neighbors jealous? Has that table by the window been looking particularly dull and lifeless lately? Are you afraid of dying alone? Have no fear! There are many easy-to-grow plants that can thrive in an indoor environment, and while the debate rages on as to whether plants have a rudimentary “consciousness” or not, you can at least be sure that they’re excellent listeners! Below are a few of my favorites, but this list is by no means exhaustive.
Pothos
Consider this the king of easily cared for houseplants. Pothos is, quite literally, almost impossible to kill, hence the nickname devil’s ivy. I’ve personally seen Pothos thrive in dry soil, and damn-near standing water. Pothos has even been known to stay green when kept in absolute darkness. With several highly attractive variegated cultivars, Pothos will be the black thumb’s best friend.
Peace Lily (Spathiphylum)
Peace lily, with its shiny green leaves and vibrant white spathes, can be a beautiful addition to any room, and they are only marginally more difficult to care for than the unnaturally resilient pothos. Peace lilies enjoy a moist, but not wet soil, but they’ll actually start to droop as the soil dries, providing an easy visual indicator that it’s time to water again. Peace lilies will tolerate pretty low light, but bright, indirect light is the best setting for your plant to bloom. They also do not like to be in either cold or warm drafts. With just a bit of effort, this “lily” can bring a little peace into your life!
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Easy to care for, thrives in lower light conditions, with a strong, architectural form, the ZZ plant works well in homes and offices, and for people who travel. Situate your ZZ in low to bright indirect light, and rotate it occasionally to ensure even growth all around. Wait until the soil is dry before watering – I can go 3 weeks between waterings for my large ZZ plant. You can also use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month when watering to feed your ZZ.
Calathea
These plants are famous for their broad green and colorful leaves, which suit them for lower light conditions. Bright, indirect light is best. They like moist (not wet) soil. Water your plants when the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out. Calathea also appreciate humidity, so either place your plants on a humidity tray/saucer filled with pebbles or hydroton and water, or mist your plants regularly. Calathea also liked to be grouped together, which will increase the humidity around them. It’s also a good idea to keep calathea plants away from hot and cold air drafts.
Come see us for all of your houseplant needs, including fertilizers, supplemental lighting, saucers and floor protectors, hydroton, watering equipment, pottery in all sizes, styles, and colors, and, of course, plants!
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