With these easy-to-grow houseplants, it won’t take much time to experience indoor plants’ health benefits. A group of studies suggests that positive impressions are often achieved in less than 20 minutes of exposure to greenery. The research further states that “employing houseplants to enhance the occupants’ positive psychological reactions is a cost-efficient, easy, and effective way.”
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Indoor spaces with easy to grow houseplants may improve our overall well-being.
Houseplants make our indoor spaces cozier.
“Houseplants add a bit of nature to any space. Their texture, color, and form add to the look, feel and ambience of the room,” says gardening expert Melinda Myers. “Plants, like artwork and other decorations, can reflect our personality.”
Houseplants lower anxiety levels.
“Taking a mindful approach to houseplant care can help reduce stress and promote emotional well-being,” says Andrew Bertagnolli, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist at One Medical. “This means [being] fully present when tending to the plant, noticing the new growth and flowering buds, and taking time to appreciate the hard work you’ve done.”Even if you’ve noticed an issue with your plant’s health you can still enjoy the emotional benefits of plants in your indoor space. “Putting a detective’s cap on and trying to discover what may be contributing to the plant’s struggle, rather than engaging in self-blame and criticism, can help one maintain a positive outlook,” says Bertagnolli.
Plants Increase Focus.
Looking for a way to enhance your focus? A study suggests that houseplants can help. People reported better concentration, productivity, and academic performance in indoor spaces with plants. According to Monica Vermani, C.Psych., a clinical psychologist, tending to the needs of houseplants could distract us from our thoughts and reconnect us with our senses.
Easy to grow houseplants give us a sense of purpose.
Seeking to provide care to something or someone outside of ourselves, be it a houseplant, pet, or loved one, is a scientifically-backed way to benefit our mental health. Vermani states that “in striving to take care of something that relies on us for its well-being, we find a purpose in life, and a motivation to be an even better person.” Owning houseplants additionally comes with the opportunity to learn new things, such as when to water them, the soil they need, and how to repot them. According to Bertagnolli, this knowledge and experience can bring a feeling of pride and purpose, and can also be shared with others.
Do houseplants purify the air?
House plants don’t actually purify the air as previously thought. A study from 1989 conducted by NASA and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. suggested that low-light houseplants have the potential to clean the air by removing pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene.
This research was the origin of many subsequent studies that have looked into the air purifying benefits of houseplants.
However, a 2019 study published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology indicates that the research is unreliable because the scientists tested the toxin-removing capabilities of houseplants in labs. When tested in a household environment, it was discovered that it would take about 10 plants per square foot to make a noticeable difference in air purification
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 easy to grow houseplants that thrive indoors, adding beauty and freshness to any room. Whether you have a green thumb or are a beginner at gardening, these plants are perfect for you.
Our carefully curated list includes a variety of plants suitable for different light conditions and levels of care. From low-maintenance succulents to vibrant flowering plants, there’s something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with detailed information on each easy to grow houseplant, including care tips, ideal lighting conditions, and how to propagate them. So, whether you have a sunny spot on your windowsill or a shady corner that needs brightening up, you’ll find an indoor plant that suits your needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Indoor Plants
Before diving into the list of top indoor plants, it’s essential to consider a few factors to ensure you choose the right plants for your space and lifestyle.
First, determine the lighting conditions in the area where you plan to place your easy to grow houseplant. Some plants thrive in bright, direct sunlight, while others prefer indirect or low-light conditions. Matching the plant’s light requirements with the available light in your space is crucial for their health and growth.
Next, consider the level of care you’re willing to provide. Some plants require daily attention, while others are low-maintenance and can thrive with minimal care. It’s important to be realistic about the amount of time and effort you can commit to plant care.
Lastly, think about the purpose of the plants. Are you looking for easy to grow houseplants that can provide fresh herbs and vegetables, or simply add a decorative touch to your space? Identifying your goals will help you choose the right plants that align with your needs and preferences.
Top 10 Easy-to-Grow houseplants
1. Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-law’s Tongue, is a popular choice for low-light environments. It has long, upright leaves that come in various shades of green. This plant is incredibly hardy and can tolerate neglect, making it perfect for beginners. Its sword-like leaves with yellow edges add a touch of elegance to any room.
Care Tips: Snake Plants prefer indirect light but can adapt to low-light conditions. Water sparingly, as they are susceptible to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Ideal Lighting Conditions: Low to bright indirect light.
Propagation: Snake Plants can be propagated through division or leaf cuttings.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant is another excellent choice of an easy to grow houseplant for low-light areas. It can tolerate irregular watering. It has glossy, dark green leaves that add a touch of elegance to any space. This plant is known for its ability to survive neglect and is highly tolerant of low-light conditions.
Care Tips: ZZ Plants can thrive in low-light conditions but can also tolerate bright indirect light. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
Ideal Lighting Conditions: Low to bright indirect light.
Propagation: ZZ Plants can be propagated through leaf cuttings or division.
3. Spider Plant
The Spider Plant is a popular choice for beginners due to its easy care. Spider plants can thrive in a range of light conditions. Their arching leaves with white stripes make them a popular choice for hanging baskets.
Care Tips: Spider Plants can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry. This plant produces baby spider plants that can be propagated.
Ideal Lighting Conditions: Low to bright indirect light.
Propagation: Spider Plants produce baby easy to grow spider plants or “spiderettes” that can be potted once they have developed roots.
4. Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is a beautiful flowering plant that not only adds elegance to your space but It has glossy, dark green leaves and white or cream-colored flowers.
Care Tips: Peace Lilies thrive in medium to low light. Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering. This plant is sensitive to chemicals, so use organic fertilizers.
Ideal Lighting Conditions: Low to bright indirect light.
Propagation: Peace Lilies can be propagated through division.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, also known as the “wonder plant,” is a popular succulent that is widely cultivated for its medicinal properties. This plant is native to the Arabian Peninsula but can now be found in various parts of the world. Aloe vera has thick, fleshy leaves that contain a gel-like substance, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is commonly used in skincare products, as well as for its healing and soothing properties.
Care Tips: Aloe Vera requires well-draining soil. It is important to use a potting mix specifically formulated for succulents to ensure proper drainage. Overwatering can be detrimental to the health of the plant, so it is best to water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Ideal Lighting Conditions: Bright, indirect light conditions. Placing the plant near a sunny window or providing it with artificial light will help promote healthy growth.
Propigation: Aloe Vera plant is an easy to grow houseplant that is easy to propigate. It can be done through the use of offsets or “pups.” These are small plantlets that grow from the base of the main plant. To propagate, gently remove the offsets from the main plant and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. It is important to allow the cut ends to dry for a few days before planting to prevent rotting.
6. Chinese Evergreen
Care Tips: Chinese evergreen, also known as Aglaonema, is a popular houseplant that is prized for its attractive foliage and easy care. To keep your Chinese evergreen looking its best, there are a few care tips that you should keep in mind. First, it is important to provide the plant with the right lighting conditions
Ideal Lighting conditions: Chinese evergreen thrives in medium to low light, making it a great choice for areas of the home that receive indirect sunlight. However, avoid placing it in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves. Additionally, Chinese evergreen prefers a warm and humid environment, so be sure to keep the plant away from drafts and provide it with regular misting to maintain the right level of humidity
Propagation: Chinese evergreen can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. To propagate your plant, simply take a stem cutting that includes at least two nodes and remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development and then place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the cutting in a warm and humid location. Within a few weeks, roots should begin to develop, indicating successful propagation. Once roots have formed, you can transfer the new plant into its own pot.
7. Pothos
Ideal for beginners, pothos is a trailing vine that can tolerate a variety of lighting conditions. Its heart-shaped leaves can vary in color, adding a vibrant touch to your indoor space.
Care Tips: pothos plants are relatively low-maintenance. They prefer to be kept in well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important not to let the plant sit in standing water. It is also a good idea to mist the leaves occasionally to increase humidity and prevent them from drying out.
Light Conditions: This easy to grow houseplant needs the proper lighting conditions. Pothos plants thrive in bright, indirect light, so it is best to place them near a window where they can receive filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant, so it is important to avoid placing it in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Additionally, pothos plants are known for their ability to tolerate low light conditions, making them a great choice for areas of the home that do not receive much natural light.
Propigations: Propagation is a popular method of multiplying pothos plants, and it is relatively easy to do. One common method is to take stem cuttings and place them in water until roots develop. Once the roots have formed, the cutting can be potted in soil. Another method is to take stem cuttings and place them directly in soil, ensuring that the nodes are covered. With both methods, it is important to keep the soil or water consistently moist until the roots have established.
8, Dracaena
Dracaena is an easy to grow houseplant that comes in various varieties. It can tolerate low light conditions and its slender, arching leaves add a touch of elegance to any room.
Care Tips: make sure to provide the plant with well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Regular watering is essential, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to soggy soil and root damage. It is best to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Ideal Lighting Conditions: Dracaena prefers bright, indirect light. Placing the plant near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal. However, it is important to avoid direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves. If you notice that the leaves are turning yellow or brown, it may be an indication that the plant is receiving too much light.
Propigation: Dracaena can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Simply cut a 4-6 inch section from the top of the plant and remove the lower leaves. Place the cutting in a container with moist soil and keep it in a warm and humid environment. With proper care and attention, your Dracaena house plant will thrive and bring beauty to your home or office space.
9. Rubber Plant
The rubber plant is an easy to grow houseplant that can tolerate low light conditions. Its thick, glossy leaves add a bold and dramatic statement to your space.
Care Tips:Rubber Plants prefer slightly moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings and always use well-draining pots and soil to prevent waterlogged roots. It is also beneficial to mist the leaves occasionally to increase humidity, especially during dry winter months or if the plant is placed near heating vents that can dry out the air.
Ideal Lighting:it is essential to provide the plant with the right lighting conditions. Rubber Plants thrive in bright, indirect light, so placing them near a window where they can receive filtered sunlight is ideal. However, direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves. It is also important to rotate the plant regularly to promote even growth and prevent it from leaning towards the light source.
Propigation: Propagating a Rubber Plant can be done through stem cuttings. To propagate, select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove any lower leaves to expose a few inches of bare stem. Place the cutting in a glass of water or moist soil and keep it in a warm, well-lit area. Roots should start to develop within a few weeks, at which point the cutting can be transferred to a pot with fresh potting soil. It is important to note that not all cuttings will successfully propagate, so it is best to take multiple cuttings to increase the chances of success.
10. Devils Ivy also know as Golden Pothos.
Devil’s ivy, also known as golden pothos, is a popular easy to grow houseplant choice for its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. It can tolerate a variety of lighting conditions and is perfect for adding a touch of green to shelves or hanging baskets.
Care Tips: Devil’s Ivy prefers well-draining soil. A good quality potting mix mixed with perlite or sand can provide the necessary drainage. It is important to water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Over watering can lead to root rot, so it’s crucial to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Devil’s Ivy also appreciates moderate humidity levels, so misting the leaves occasionally or placing a tray of water nearby can help maintain optimal moisture.
Ideal Lighting: Devil’s Ivy thrives in medium to bright indirect light. It can tolerate lower light conditions, but its growth may slow down. On the other hand, direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so it’s best to place it in a spot where it receives filtered or indirect sunlight. Rotating the plant every few weeks ensures that all sides receive equal light exposure, promoting symmetrical growth.
Propigation: Propagation is a common practice for Devil’s Ivy enthusiasts and can be easily done through stem cuttings. To propagate, select healthy stems with at least two nodes and remove any leaves near the bottom. Place the cutting in water or directly into moist soil, making sure that at least one node is submerged or buried. Roots will start to develop within a few weeks, and once they are well-established, the new plant can be potted separately. Another propagation method involves layering, where a section of the stem is partially buried in soil while still attached to the parent plant. The buried section will produce roots, forming a new plant that can be separated once it has grown sufficiently.
