Choosing the best indoor plant for your home isn’t just about looks. It’s about matching a plant’s needs with the environment and conditions of your home. From lighting and humidity to the placement within your rooms and considering your pets, choosing the right plant can make all the difference in creating a green, healthy living space.
We’ll walk you through every step of picking out the perfect indoor plants for your home. With our help, you’ll turn your home into a leafy, green sanctuary before you know it!
We’re diving deep into everything you need to know – from understanding what to look for when choosing your plants, to giving them the best care and attention they need to thrive. If you’ve got a desire to make your indoors greener, consider this your ultimate plant parent handbook!
What are Indoor Plants?
Indoor plants, or houseplants as they’re fondly called, are the green buddies you see jazzing up homes, offices, or your favorite coffee shop. They’re not just pretty faces though – they’re hard workers too! They soak up carbon dioxide, dish out oxygen, and some of them even moonlight as air purifiers, grabbing onto nasty toxins. Big or small, these indoor pals come in all shapes and sizes, all depending on how much space you’re willing to share and how green your thumb is!
Benefits of Indoor Plants
Indoor plants are more than just a pretty sight. They offer a variety of benefits that can enhance your well-being. Here are seven ways indoor plants can improve your life.
Air purification
Plants can help improve the quality of indoor air. Early research by NASA in the 1980s found that houseplants and their roots and soil can reduce airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While recent studies suggest that modern biofilters and other technologies may be more efficient, having a good number of indoor plants can still contribute to fresher air. Some of the most effective plant species for this purpose include areca, lady, dwarf date, and bamboo palms, Boston fern, rubber tree, spider plant, and Ficus tree.
Some plants even have the ability to remove harmful toxins like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, which can be present in household items like furniture, paint, and cleaning products.
Aesthetics and Ambiance
Indoor plants do more than just decorate. They bring a room to life, making it feel warm and welcoming.
Using different types of plants, each with its own shape, size, and color, you can create a balanced and unified design that fits right in with your home’s style.
Tall plants like snake plants or fiddle leaf figs can make a room feel bigger. Plants like pothos or ivy that hang down can add a touch of interest to shelves or furniture. Plants with colorful flowers can brighten up a room.
You can also use plants to match your home’s design. For a minimalist look, try cacti or succulents. For a tropical feel, go for ferns and palms.
In short, smart use of indoor plants can lead to a stylish design that fits your home and creates a lively, relaxing space.
Indoor Plants Can Aid in Faster Recovery
Having plants and flowers to look at can potentially speed up recovery from illness, injury, or surgery. Research has shown that patients who were exposed to greenery during their recovery periods needed less pain medication and had shorter hospital stays.
By bringing nature indoors, you can create a calming and nurturing environment that promotes relaxation and happiness.
Indoor Plants Can Help Lower Stress
Research suggests that having plants indoors can help reduce stress. A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that interacting with indoor plants, like repotting a houseplant, can make you feel more relaxed and at ease. This activity was found to lower stress-related responses such as heart rate and blood pressure, compared to performing a computer-based task.
Factors to consider when choosing indoor plants
Space and Size Constraints
When choosing indoor plants, consider the space they will occupy, not just when you first bring them home, but also as they grow. Some plants can grow several feet tall or wide, while others remain relatively small. Here are some considerations you may want to consider when it comes to space:
- Growing Habits: Think about how much space you can give your plants to grow. It’s a bit like inviting guests to a dance – you don’t want it so crowded that no one can move! Just like people, some plants are wallflowers and stay small, while others like to take center stage and can grow super tall and wide. So, before you adopt a plant, research its mature size to make sure it won’t outgrow your space.
- Placement: Next, think about where your plants are gonna groove. Do you have a lot of floor space for larger plants, or will they need to shimmy on a shelf or hang from the ceiling? Remember, just like dancers need a stage, plants need their space too.
- Light Exposure: Just like a spotlight on a dance floor, plants need light to show off their moves. Check that wherever you place them, they’ll get enough light to keep their groove on.
- Everyday Activities: Last but not least, don’t let your plants get in the way of your own boogie. Make sure their placement won’t trip you up or cause any accidents.
Light Conditions
The intensity, duration, and quality of light your indoor environment receives will greatly influence your plant choices. Besides just the direction of your windows, also take into account any obstructions such as trees or buildings that might limit the light coming in. Here are some tips for you to consider:
- Light Intensity and Duration: Imagine your home as a giant disco ball, with different spots catching the light at different angles and intensities. This light show plays a huge role in what kind of plants you can invite to the party. Some are sun-worshipping divas that crave the limelight, while others are more subtle, preferring a soft glow to the full-on disco inferno.
- Window Direction and Obstructions: Now, think about where your windows are and what direction they face. South-facing windows are like the DJ booth – they’ve got the best light beats. But don’t forget to check for any party-poopers, like trees or buildings, that might be hogging the light show.
- Light Zones in Your Home: Take a look around your home, and you’ll see different light zones. Some areas get a direct hit from the light beam (direct sunlight), some catch a reflected glow (indirect light), and others might be chilling in the shade most of the time. Match your plants to these zones according to their light preferences.
- Seasonal Light Changes: And just like any epic party, the light show in your home changes as the night goes on, or in this case, as the seasons change. The sun can pull some pretty awesome moves, changing the intensity and duration of light throughout the year. Keep this in mind, as some plants might need extra light support in winter, while others might need shade in the intense summer light.
Humidity and Temperature
The indoor climate is not just about temperature and humidity, but also about air movement and quality. Certain plants thrive in a more stagnant environment while others prefer a bit of a draft. Similarly, some plants can help improve indoor air quality by filtering out certain pollutants. Here are the things you may want to consider:
- Climate Control: Indoor climate isn’t just about cranking up the thermostat or getting your home all steamy. It’s also about how the air moves around and what’s in it. Just like us, plants have their own comfort zones. Some like it hot and humid, others cool and dry, and some even like a bit of a breeze. So, you’ve got to figure out what kind of weather your plant prefers before you invite it into your home.
- Air Movement: Some plants enjoy a gentle breeze and prefer places where air circulates well – let’s call them the “freestyle dancers.” On the other hand, there are those that enjoy still air and won’t appreciate being placed near a draft – they’re the “slow dancers” of the plant world.
- Air Quality: You know what’s cool? Some plants are like natural air purifiers! They can help filter out certain pollutants, improving your home’s air quality. It’s like they’re doing a community service while throwing their shapes on the dance floor!
- Room Considerations: Now, let’s chat about the different rooms in your home. Some, like the kitchen and bathroom, can be like mosh pits of temperature and humidity changes, and not all plants can handle that. So, make sure to take into account the specific conditions of each room before deciding which plants to put there.
Maintenance requirements
Caring for indoor plants is more than just a passing interest; it’s an essential part of plant ownership that can determine whether your indoor greenery thrives or wilts. Your care commitment level includes several facets:
- Watering: Different plants have varying watering needs based on their natural habitats. For instance, succulents and cacti require less frequent watering than tropical plants. Understand each plant’s water requirements, including the amount and frequency, as well as the best watering methods (top-down, bottom-up, misting).
- Pruning: Regular pruning can keep a plant healthy and aesthetically pleasing. Learn about the best pruning practices, like the right season for pruning, the correct tools to use, and where and how much to cut.
- Repotting: Over time, plants can outgrow their pots, which can lead to stunted growth or even root rot. Learning how and when to repot, along with choosing the right pot and soil mix, can significantly affect a plant’s health.
- Fertilizing: Plants need nutrients to grow, many of which they get from the soil. Over time, these nutrients get depleted and need to be replaced using fertilizer. Understanding the type, quantity, and frequency of fertilization is crucial.
- Pest and Disease Management: Plants, like all living beings, are susceptible to diseases and pests. Regular monitoring can help catch early signs of infestation or illness, and understanding treatment options can save your plant’s life.
Household Safety
Ensuring the safety of everyone in the household, including pets, is of paramount importance when selecting indoor plants.
- Allergies: Some plants can cause allergic reactions, from mild skin irritation to severe respiratory issues. If anyone in your household has allergies, it’s important to choose hypoallergenic plants or plants known not to cause common allergic reactions.
- Toxicity: Numerous plants are toxic if ingested, and some can even cause harm upon contact. Research each plant’s toxicity level for both humans and pets. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to choosing plants for homes with small children or curious pets.
- Potential Hazards: Apart from toxicity and allergies, other hazards could include sharp thorns or spikes, plants that drop small parts that could be a choking hazard, or larger plants that could topple over if not properly secured.
Budget
Your budget to plant care extends beyond the upfront cost of the plant itself. Consider these potential expenses:
- Plant Accessories: Certain plants might need grow lights if your home doesn’t get adequate natural light. Humidifiers or dehumidifiers could also be necessary, depending on the plant’s humidity requirements. The cost of pots, trellises, or stands should also be factored in.
- Plant Care Essentials: The ongoing cost of potting soil, fertilizers, and pest control products can add up. Moreover, you might need specialized soil or fertilizers for certain plants.
- Water Usage: While usually minimal, the increase in your water bill due to plant watering should also be taken into account.
- Professional Care Services: Some plants may need professional pruning or repotting, especially larger plants or those with specific care needs. If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, the cost of hiring professionals should be considered.
Remember, a thriving indoor garden is an investment of both time and money. Carefully assessing your capacity for both can help ensure that you and your plants are set up for success.
Choose a plant that fits within your budget and won’t require additional costs for maintenance or accessories.
Keep in mind that some plants may require special potting soil, fertilizers, or other supplies, which can add to the overall cost of owning and caring for them.
Top indoor plants for different home conditions
Low-light plants
Snake plant (Sansevieria)
Imagine a plant that looks like a bunch of green swords sticking out of a pot, and you’ve got yourself a snake plant. It’s pretty chill about not getting much sunlight, and it’s a natural clean freak, sucking up nasties like formaldehyde and benzene from the air. So, you’re not just getting a plant, you’re also getting a natural air purifier. How cool is that!
ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
If the ZZ Plant had a theme song, it would be “I Will Survive.” It’s as tough as they come, handling low-light conditions like a champ. Plus, it’s got these shiny, dark green leaves that look like they’ve just been polished. If you’re a busy bee and don’t have a lot of time for plant care, ZZ is your go-to dance partner.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
With its heart-shaped leaves and love for shady corners, pothos is the hopeless romantic of the plant world. It’s super easy-going and doesn’t demand much. Just let it hang out in a basket or let it climb a bit, and it’ll be happy. It’s like that low-maintenance friend who’s always fun to have around.
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum)
Now, if you’re looking for something more elegant, the peace lily is like the belle of the ball. It produces these gorgeous white flowers, even when it’s not catching much light. And it’s not just a pretty face; peace lily is another fantastic air purifier, kicking out toxins like formaldehyde and ammonia. So, it’s beauty with benefits!
Dracaena
Dracaenas are the variety queens of the plant world. They come in all shapes and sizes, often with striking, multicolored foliage. They’re like the runway models strutting their stuff even under low light conditions. They’ve got long, slender leaves and can grow quite tall, adding a touch of glam to any room.
Philodendron
Here’s another one that loves the shadows, the philodendron. This one’s a bit of a show-off with its lush, green, heart-shaped leaves. It’s really easy to look after and brings a burst of tropical rainforest vibe to your living room. Just like a friendly pet, it’s always there to greet you with its green, leafy smile.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant is like the fun and quirky cousin that everyone loves. It’s super adaptable and doesn’t mind if you forget to water it now and then. The best part? It sends out these little babies (plantlets) that hang down like, well, spiders on a web. It’s a surefire conversation starter!
Want to know more about low light plants? We’ve created the biggest list of low-light indoor plants for you! Read more here: 44 Best Low-Light Indoor Plants for Your Home
Plants for bright, indirect light
Monstera deliciosa
Also known as the Swiss cheese plant (and not because it’s good on a sandwich), this guy is like the rockstar of the plant world. With its glossy leaves full of distinctive holes (that’s the cheese bit), it’s a real head-turner. It loves to soak up that bright, indirect light, and can grow big enough to dominate your room – but in a good way! Think of it as nature’s own piece of art.
Rubber plant (Ficus elastica)
Talk about a standout! This fella comes with large, glossy, dark green leaves that shine brighter than my future. It likes to stretch out, growing several feet tall under bright, indirect light. And if it gets a little too ambitious for your taste, just give it a trim to keep it in shape.
Philodendron
The charm of philodendrons is that they’re basically like the wardrobe of the plant world – there’s a variety for every occasion! They can thrive in bright, indirect light, and come in both trailing forms for a bit of drama, or upright forms for a more poised look. It’s like having a plant for every mood and setting!
Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant is the cool, low-maintenance buddy you always wanted. It sports long, arching leaves and cute little white flowers. It’s happiest under bright, indirect light, and you can put it in a hanging basket or a pot, wherever it fits your style. And don’t worry, it’s not the kind of spider you’ll want to squish!
Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
If you want to add a bit of a tropical vibe to your room, say hello to the Boston fern. Its lush, feathery fronds love bright, indirect light and a bit of humidity. Put it in a hanging basket or let it lounge on a shelf, where it can let its fronds hang out. It’s like a mini-vacation in your living room!
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Meet the Jade plant, the living embodiment of ‘slow and steady wins the race.’ This succulent grows slow but can live for decades. It sports glossy, oval-shaped leaves and enjoys a good dose of bright, indirect light. Bonus point: it’s considered a symbol of good luck!
Orchid (Orchidaceae)
For a touch of elegance, consider an orchid. These plants may look delicate with their slender stems and stunning blooms, but they’re tougher than they look. They love bright, indirect light, making them perfect for a well-lit bathroom or kitchen.
Plants for high humidity
Tillandsia (air plants)
Meet the mavericks of the plant world. These guys don’t need soil, they’re just hanging around absorbing water and nutrients through their leaves. High humidity? They love it! It makes them perfect for your bathroom or even a cool terrarium. They can pretty much be placed anywhere, and they’ll just chill, doing their own thing.
Calathea
This plant is basically a living piece of art. Its foliage has striking patterns that’ll add some serious style to any room. They’re the drama queens of the plant world, loving high humidity, but being a bit sensitive to temperature changes and drafts. Just make sure they get some bright, indirect light and you’ve got yourself a stunning leafy friend.
Orchids
Orchids are like the supermodels of the plant kingdom – exotic, stunning, and a bit high maintenance. They really dig high humidity conditions, which makes sense since they come from tropical rainforests. Remember, they come in loads of varieties, so you’ll need to do a little homework to find out what specific care your type of orchid needs.
Maranta (prayer plant)
This fella’s got a party trick – its leaves fold up at night, like it’s saying a little prayer before bedtime. The prayer plant loves the sauna-like conditions of high humidity environments. It enjoys bright, indirect light and a sip of water to keep its soil nice and moist.
Alocasia
Ever wanted a plant that resembles an arrow? Well, here’s your chance. The alocasia, with its large, arrow-shaped leaves, will definitely turn heads. It’s a fan of high humidity, bright, indirect light, and well-draining soil. It’s like having a little piece of the tropics right in your living room.
Ferns
We’ve got to give a shout out to the classic high-humidity-loving fern. Whether it’s a Boston, maidenhair or staghorn fern, these plants love to bask in moist conditions. Stick them in your bathroom and they’ll feel right at home.
Bromeliads
These tropical beauties are another group that thrives in humid conditions. They bring a vibrant touch of color with their bright flowers and variegated leaves. Just like a flamingo in a rainforest!
Low-maintenance plants
Succulents
If you’re the kind of person who forgets to water your plants, then succulents are your new best friends. They’re the camels of the plant world, storing water in their chubby leaves and stems, so they don’t need watering all that often. They’re perfect for busy folks or new plant parents because they’re pretty forgiving. Plus, they come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors to fit your personal style.
Cacti
Now, here are some plants that really know how to handle drought. Like their succulent cousins, cacti hang onto water in their bodies and can survive on surprisingly little hydration. They’re a versatile choice, whether you’re styling a minimalist desert theme or a quirky boho vibe. Just remember not to overwater them – they like their soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Aspidistra (cast iron plant)
You want a tough, no-nonsense plant? Say hello to the cast iron plant. It’s got a reputation for being practically indestructible. Poor light, chilly rooms, forgetful waterers – it handles it all with grace. If you struggle to keep plants alive, the cast iron plant could be your game-changer.
Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema)
Another superstar of the low-maintenance plant world, the Chinese evergreen is pretty chill about light conditions and doesn’t need constant attention. Its variegated foliage adds a splash of color to any room and is sure to earn compliments from your visitors.
Jade plant (Crassula ovata)
If you’re hoping your first foray into plant parenthood will be lucky, the jade plant might be the perfect choice. This succulent has thick, juicy leaves and can go a while between waterings. Plus, some folks believe it brings good luck, so maybe it’ll bestow some green thumb magic on you!
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
One more for the list – the snake plant is another easy-care choice that’s great for beginners. It’s cool with low light, can handle drought, and is known to clean the air in your home. It’s basically the plant equivalent of a superhero!
How much attention can you give your plants?
Deciding to bring plants into your life is kind of like choosing a pet – you’ve got to think about how much time and energy you can give to them. It’s not just about what plants look pretty in the window. It’s also about what plants suit your life and your daily routine.
Let’s break it down a bit. All plants are unique, just like people. Some are super chill, they don’t need much from you and they’re cool with whatever. You forget to water them? No biggie. They’re living their best life even in a room as dim as a cave. These are your low-maintenance buds, the ones that are totally fine doing their own thing while you do yours.
But then, there are the drama queen plants – the high-maintenance types. These are the indoor plant equivalent of a pet that requires walkies five times a day. They need just the right amount of water, sunlight, and humidity. If you don’t meet their demands, they’ll start looking droopy, like a pop star without their fans.
So, what’s important here is figuring out what kind of plant parent you want to be. Are you someone who’s always rushing around, with barely a moment to breathe? If that’s the case, maybe go for a plant that’s cool with being left alone. It’ll be like having a roommate that doesn’t mind when you don’t have time to hang out.
But hey, maybe you’re the sort of person who loves taking care of things. Maybe you get a kick out of nurturing your plants, checking in on them, and making sure they’re doing great. If that sounds like you, maybe a more high-maintenance plant could be your new green bestie.
Don’t worry if you’re a busy bee, though. There are tons of easy-going plants out there that are totally happy with minimal care. Just like that one friend who’s always cool with doing their own thing but is there for you when you need them.
The key to plant parenting is to pick a plant that matches your lifestyle. That way, you get to enjoy all the good vibes plants bring into your home without stressing about keeping them happy.
Go forth, brave plant hunter, and find your perfect plant partner. They’re out there waiting for you, ready to turn your home into a green paradise!
The Best Houseplants for Beginners
Starting on the path to plant parenthood is thrilling but can also be a bit nerve-wracking for beginners. With a seemingly endless array of houseplants to choose from, picking out the perfect green companions—ones that are not just good-looking but also fairly low-maintenance—can seem like a tough task.
But, don’t worry! There are plenty of houseplants out there that are just perfect for those taking their first steps into the indoor gardening world. These newbie-friendly plants are renowned for their sturdiness, undemanding care routines, and knack for adjusting to a variety of indoor environments. That’s why they’re the top picks for folks venturing into plant ownership for the first time.
If you’re a fresh face in the world of indoor gardening, we’re here to guide you to the most recommended houseplants for beginners. We want to make sure your foray into this green world is a fun-filled and successful one. So let’s dive in and introduce you to your potential new leafy roommates!
Snake plant (Sansevieria)
Yes, I know, we’ve mentioned this indoor plant more on this guide.
This plant is virtually indestructible. Seriously, it’s like the Wolverine of the plant world. It can survive in both high and low light, and it doesn’t mind if you forget to water it every now and then. Plus, its air-purifying abilities make it a practical choice for improving indoor air quality.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is like your laid-back best friend who just goes with the flow. It doesn’t require much care – just put it in a spot with low to medium light, water it when the soil feels dry, and watch it thrive. And if you’re late on watering? No sweat, pothos can handle it.
Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
If houseplants were pets, the spider plant would be the happy-go-lucky dog that’s always wagging its tail. These plants love bright, indirect light, but they can also survive in lower light conditions. They are drought-tolerant and the spiderettes (baby spider plants) that they produce can be easily propagated, giving you even more plants to spread around your home or share with friends.
ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Image Source: The Spruce
The ZZ plant is like that tough character in every movie who just keeps going no matter what. It can survive in low light and withstand drought, making it a fantastic choice if you’re prone to forgetting to water your plants. Its glossy, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance wherever you place it.
Succulents
Succulents are the ultimate low-maintenance houseplants. They store water in their fleshy leaves and stems, so they can go for quite a while between waterings. They’re like the camels of the plant world. Plus, they come in a vast array of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you’re bound to find one that fits your style.
Rubber plant (Ficus elastica)
The rubber plant is that striking person at the party who doesn’t need to be the center of attention all the time. It’s happy with low to bright indirect light, and it only needs watering when the top layer of soil feels dry. Its large, glossy leaves can add a dramatic touch to your space.
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum)
Image Source: MyDomaine
Peace lilies are that quiet, sensitive soul who’s always there when you need them. They can thrive in low-light conditions, so they’re great if you don’t have a lot of natural light in your home. And they’re also excellent communicators – if they need water, they’ll let you know by drooping their leaves.
Heart Leaf Philodendron
Philodendrons are like the classic, reliable friend you can always count on. They’re undemanding and can adapt to various light conditions. Plus, they have a tropical vibe that can make any space feel more like a lush, exotic oasis.
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade plants are like the wise old sage. They grow slowly and can live for many years, symbolizing luck and prosperity. These succulents store water in their fleshy leaves, making them a good choice if you occasionally forget to water your plants.
Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Image Source: The Plant Project
Golden pothos, or “Devil’s Ivy,” is like that super adaptable friend who fits in wherever they go. It’s a forgiving plant that can handle a range of light conditions and doesn’t require super frequent watering.
Cacti
Cacti are perfect for those with a busy lifestyle. These tough plants are built to survive in arid conditions, so they don’t need much attention. Plus, they offer a unique aesthetic that can add interest to your space.
Aloe Vera
This plant is like a first-aid kit. It doesn’t just look good, it can also help soothe minor burns and skin irritations. It’s a sun lover and only needs watering when its soil is completely dry.
Dieffenbachia
Also known as “dumb cane,” this plant is a visual stunner with its lush, variegated leaves. It’s pretty forgiving and can handle a range of light conditions, which makes it an excellent choice for beginners.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy is like that whimsical character from a fairy tale. It’s a climber and can be trained to grow along a trellis or in a hanging basket. It likes bright, indirect light and prefers to dry out between watering.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Image Source: The Spruce
Chinese evergreens are like the adaptable traveler who can feel at home anywhere. They can handle a variety of lighting conditions and don’t need to be watered all the time. Plus, their beautiful, variegated leaves can add a splash of color to your space.
As you may have observed, several indoor plants from our recommended list make recurring appearances in this guide. This isn’t a coincidence or a mere repetition, but rather a testimony to their resilience, ease of care, and adaptability, making them the ultimate contenders for novice plant parents.
These indoor plants have proven time and again their ability to thrive under the care of beginners. Their common traits—tolerance to varying light conditions, flexibility in watering schedules, and general hardiness—make them an excellent choice for those just dipping their toes into the verdant world of indoor gardening.
So, if you find yourself coming across the same names, such as Snake Plant or Pothos, take it as a green thumbs-up from the plant community. They’re practically saying, “Start here! We’re easy to care for and will reward your efforts with lush growth.” It’s a reassurance that, even as a novice, you can successfully venture into the enriching journey of plant parenting.
Conclusion
Choosing the best indoor plants for your home can be a rewarding and enjoyable process. By considering factors such as available space, light conditions, humidity, and maintenance requirements, you can select plants that will thrive in your unique environment.
With proper care and attention, your indoor plants will not only enhance the beauty of your home but also improve your overall well-being. So, go ahead and embark on your journey to create a greener, healthier living space.