If you’re just getting started with indoor gardening or growing plants then you’re in for a treat. It’s one of the most rewarding things you’ll do and can be surprisingly exciting.
I’ve been doing it for years and have grown and cared for more flowers and houseplants than I can remember. And over those years I’ve found out which are the simplest to grow.
So I’ve put together a list of the easiest houseplants for beginners to help you ease in.
Top 10 Easiest Houseplants for Beginners
1. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, snake plants are known for how resilient they are. They do well in different light conditions, from low to bright indirect light, and don’t need much watering.
It’s best to let the soil to dry out in between waterings so it doesn’t get root rot. And the sword shaped leaves are always going to draw the eye whatever room you put a snake plant in.
2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a vining plant that grows some lovely heart shaped leaves. It doesn’t mind being neglected a little does well without a lot of light. Try to water it when the top of the soil feels dry.
Lots of people like to train the vines so they grow around shelves or up walls. Or you can just let the vines hanging from a basket.
3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is a great choice for beginners as it needs little watering and is happy with low light. So water it sparingly, letting the soil dry out completely between each time you water.
It also looks very elegant wherever you put it in your home.
It’s a great choice if you travel often or are prone to forgetting about caring for your plants (be honest!).
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
My personal favorite, spider plants are so easy to look after and even purify the air. They like bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower light too.
Keep the soil a little moist, watering when the top of it feels dry. They produce “spiderettes” or baby plants that are easy to propagate and turn into new spider plants.
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
People really like peace lilies because of their beautiful white flowers. They do well in low to medium light and like the soil to be moist.
But be careful not to overwater them though as they are sensitive to the soil getting too soggy.
The fact they can also improve the quality of the air in your home makes them a popular choice.
6. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the cast iron plant is nearly indestructible. It doesn’t mind the light being low, not being watered very often or the temperature fluctuating.
All you have to do is water it when the soil is dry and it will be happy. And it’s broad, green leaves will add a tropical touch to your home.
7. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The jade plant is a succulent. It has thick leaves that store water so it’s very good at going long periods without being watered.
It likes bright light and should only be watered occasionally, letting the soil dry out before doing it again. With proper care jade plants can live for many years and often get passed down through families.
8. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe Vera is the only plant here that also had medicinal properties. But it’s also easy to look after, doing best in bright light and not needing a lot of watering.
Let the soil dry out completely after you’ve watered to stop the roots rotting.
The gel inside its leaves can be used to soothe minor burns and skin irritations.
9. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Rubber plants are known for having large leaves. They do well in most light conditions though they mostly like bright, indirect light.
Keep the soil moist as they grow in the summer and spring and stop watering as much in the winter. It’s also a good idea to wipe the leaves regularly to keep the dust off them and them looking shiny.
10. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
Philodendron had heart shaped leaves and also does best in low to bright indirect light. It doesn’t mind some missed waterings but likes the soil to dry out a little between being watered.
As it trails when it grows it’s great for hanging baskets or planters or for putting on shelves.
Care Tips for Beginner Houseplants
If you’re a newbie and want to make sure you have the success with your indoor plants then these tips will help to avoid the biggest mistakes.
- Light: Most houseplants prefer bright, indirect light. Watch your plant and see how it responds to things like its location and make any changes as needed.
- Watering: Overwatering is a common mistake. It’s better to underwater than overwater. Check how moist the soil is before you water.
- Humidity: Many houseplants come from from humid environments. So if your home is dry, especially in the winter, try using a humidity tray or misting the plants to help them.
- Soil and Drainage: Use a potting soil that drains well and be sure your pots have drainage holes so the water doesn’t sit in them and cause root rot.
- Fertilization: During the growing season (spring and summer), give your plants a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the packaging.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Even with plants that are easy to care for you can still run in to challenges:
- Yellow Leaves: Usually happens because of overwatering or underwatering. Check how wet the soil is and change up how you’re watering if need be. If the soil is too wet let it dry out before the next time you water.
- Brown Tips: This is often caused by low humidity or fluoride in tap water. Try increasing the humidity by misiting the plants or using a pebble tray. Use filtered or distilled water as well so they’re not getting fluoride that’s in tap water.
- Pests: Common pests like spider mites, mealybugs or aphids can be managed with insecticidal soap or by wiping the leaves with water and a few drops of dish soap.
- Leggy Growth: If your plant gets long and spindly growth with weaker stems it probably isn’t getting enough light. Just move it closer to a window that has light or use a grow light.
Creative Ways to Display Your Plants
Houseplants can be more than just greenery. If you do it right you can make them part of your home decor.
These are a few fun ways to display them:
1. Hanging Planters
Perfect for trailing plants like pothos or philodendrons. Using hanging planters saved space and looks interesting in most rooms.
2. Shelving Units
Try arranging a mix of different sizes of plants on your shelves. Together they look great. You can group the plants that have the same water and light needs.
3. Terrariums
Succulents and air plants do well in terrariums, which when put on tabletops are eye catching and a talking point.
4. Plant Stands
Use tiered plant stands to show off multiple plants at different heights.
5. Window Sills
Bright windows are perfect for plants that love the sun like aloe vera or jade plants. Line your windowsills with pots for a natural look.
Why Start with Easy Houseplants?
Starting with houseplants that are well suited to beginners helps to build confidence. These types of plants don’t mind if you make mistakes and give you the chance to gain some experience as you care for them.
It will also help you to get used to watering routines, pruning and general care. It helps you to be familiar with the basics but without the risk of your plants dying from the mistakes you will inevitably make.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my houseplants?
There’s no answer for every single plant as watering depends on the plant species, pot size and other conditions. But a good rule to stick to is checking the top inch of soil and seeing if it’s dry. If so the you can be confident it’s time to water.
Can I use regular garden soil for houseplants?
It’s best to use potting soil that’s designed for indoor plants. Garden soil is usually too dense and so doesn’t drain or let enough air flow throughout it.
What’s the best way to increase humidity for my plants?
Grouping plants together, using a pebble tray filled with water or using a humidifier can all help increase the humidity.
How do I know if my plant is getting enough light?
Look for signs like slow growth, pale leaves or the leaves dropping off., Move the plant to somewhere that gets more light if needed.
Final Thoughts
Being a beginner to growing houseplants doesn’t have to be intimidating. If you choose the right fist planes and have some basic knowledge you shouldn’t have any real problems.
Any of the houseplants on this list are a great place to start. Every plant you care for will teach you something new.