MK Life Tips: Perfect House Plants for Beginners
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I think plants are one of the most inexpensive ways to dress up your home decor, while providing a natural element with a significant impact. In the past years, some may have referred to my home as the plant morgue, since it was virtually impossible to keep them alive. If you're lacking in the green thumb department, check out this list of a few different varietals that that Wit and Delight compiled that even a three year old (well, maybe) could keep alive.
1. Prayer Plant
The ornate designs in the leaves of this indoor plant make it unique, yet it is still easy to maintain. As the foliage does best in bright, indirect sunlight, it can also thrive indoors through indirect sunlight. To maintain, all you have to do is water it with warm water about every two weeks. Now, c'mon - per Ina Garten, 'how easy is that?'
2. Split Leaf Philodendron
A Split Leaf Philodendron grows rapidly and often has leaves that are up to 3ft. long and 2ft. wide, with slits called cutouts that make each leaf unique from the next. If you want a big, tropical, low maintenance plant, these plants are perfect. It needs consistent watering and make sure to allow the top 25-30% of the soil to dry before watering again. Keep the soil damp but never soggy. Water droplets or perspiration on the leaves of a Split Leaf Philodendron indicate over-watering, brown leaf edges indicate under watering. As far as sunlight, this plant enjoys medium to bright light, and can survive in lower light, but the leaves won't split and the plant becomes leggy. Make sure you keep a out of the direct sun, and out of your pets and kids mouth as these plants are poisonous.
3. Air Plants
If you look into any home modern decor these days, you'll like find these low maintenance plants scattered about, and since they only need a dusting of water every now in then, they are virtually impossible to kill. What also makes them great is the array of holders you can find to really compliment your space.
4. Lucky Bamboo
If you’re looking to infuse some fresh air into your home, the Lucky Bamboo does just that. Not only does this perennial plant thrive in bad lighting, poor air quality, only sporadically watered, etc., but it’s also believed to enhance positive energy and bring about good luck. Now who couldn't use more of that in their life?!
5. Ponytail Palm
Also known as the Bottle Palm, this plant is another low-maintenance winner. With its large, long truck that stores water, this palm is practically indestructible. It is happiest when watered once a week and situated in an extra sunny spot.
6. Succulents and Cacti
I bet you knew this one was coming. But how could succulents and cacti not be on a houseplants-for-beginners list!? Forget maintenance — these plants practically thrive on neglect. These cuties can seriously take the heat, so be sure to place them in the sunniest spot of a space. Window sills are a great option. Water sparingly and they will be your forever companion!
