Life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind, and sometimes your green thumb gets a little… brown.
But who says you can't have a flourishing indoor garden even with a jam-packed schedule?
We firmly believe that everyone deserves a bit of nature's goodness, no matter how busy they are. That's why we're here today!
We're spilling the beans on low-maintenance houseplants that thrive on a little neglect (we won't judge).
Why Bother with Houseplants?
Now, before you roll your eyes and say, "Who has time for that?" hear us out. Beginner houseplants are more than just pretty faces.
Here's why indoor plants are worth the (minimal) effort.
- Natural Air Purifiers. They scrub the air of toxins, leaving you with a fresher, healthier living space.
- Stress Busters. Research shows that being around plants can significantly lower blood pressure, diminish anxiety, and enhance mood.
- Productivity Boosters. A little greenery in your workspace can increase focus, creativity, and overall well-being.
- Mood Enhancers. Houseplants bring a touch of the outdoors in, adding warmth and cheer to any space.
- Green Thumb Confidence. Even if you've struggled with plants before, hard-to-kill houseplants can give you the confidence boost you need to become a plant parent pro.
Low-Maintenance Houseplant Care 101
Now, don't worry – we won't bore you with a botany lecture. Here are a few things to remember when starting your indoor garden. (Yes, we count a tiny cactus surviving on its lonesome as a beginner's garden.)
- Light. Think of your plants like Goldilocks – they want light that's not too harsh, not too dim, but just right. Bright, indirect light is ideal for most low-maintenance houseplants.
- Water. Before drowning your plants with love (and water), feel the soil. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water your plant thoroughly. Be sure to keep it from standing water. If the soil still feels moist, waiting before watering again is best.
- Soil. A well-draining potting mix is like a comfy bed for your plants. It helps prevent root rot and keeps them happy and healthy.
- Pots. Choose pots with drainage holes to avoid waterlogged roots. And remember, your plant will eventually outgrow its pot, so be prepared to repot it when necessary.
Remembering to give your plants a little love now and then will lead to them rewarding you with lush foliage and clean air.
Our Top Picks for "Can't-Kill-Me" Houseplants
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
This trendy plant with striking upright leaves is practically indestructible. The snake plant tolerates low light and infrequent watering like a champ.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
If you tend to forget about watering, the ZZ plant, nicknamed the "eternity plant," is your new best friend. Its glossy leaves and slow growth rate make it a perfect low-maintenance option.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
This vining beauty is a fast grower that comes in various colours and patterns. It's perfect for hanging baskets or shelves. Best of all, a pothos is forgiving of neglect and can even thrive in water.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
With its long, arching leaves and baby "spiderettes," this plant adds a playful touch to any room. It's adaptable to different light conditions and only needs watering once a week.
Spider plants are easy to propagate, so you can share the love with friends or other rooms. They are great options for bathrooms.
Air Plants (Tillandsia spp.)
Not a fan of getting your hands dirty? These beauties are for you—air plants don't need soil!
You never have to worry about overwatering these plants because their leaves absorb moisture and nutrients. They're the ultimate low-maintenance option.
Just give them a good soak every week or two.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)
The elegant peace lily, with its graceful white flowers, is surprisingly low-maintenance. It prefers low to moderate light and only needs watering when the soil feels dry.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
With its variegated leaves and tolerance for low light, the Chinese Evergreen is a popular choice for offices and homes. It's also known for its air-purifying qualities.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
This sturdy plant truly lives up to its name! The cast iron plant is incredibly resilient and can thrive in the most challenging environments.
Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
While not technically bamboo, it's still a very easy-going plant. Lucky bamboos are often grown in water and believed to bring good fortune.
Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
This remarkable plant family showcases various leaf shapes, colours, and sizes, offering something to suit every taste. Many philodendron varieties are known for their tolerance of low light and neglect.
Your Green Oasis Awaits
With so many low-maintenance houseplants to choose from, there's no reason your busy lifestyle should keep you from enjoying the benefits of indoor greenery.
Pop into our shop or check out our online selection.
We even offer same-day delivery in Ottawa because who wants to wait for greenery?
Let Terra Plants & Flowers help you transform your space into a thriving oasis, one easy-care plant at a time!