Fostering houseplants can add life and vibe to a space, but it is important to care for them properly to prevent them from dying. Certain plants are easier to care for than others, and some are nearly impossible to kill. Houseplant experts Rebecca Sterling and Puneet Sabharwal recommend plants that are forgiving and easy to care for. These plants include the ZZ plant, which is low maintenance and tolerant to neglect, and the parlor palm, which thrives in high humidity. Other hard-to-kill plants include the Monstera and Monstera Siltepecana, Hoyas, Aglaonema Siam Pink, Pothos, Snake Plant, Baby Rubber Plant, and Philodendron Brasil.
Plants like the ZZ plant prefer bright indirect light and soil that is consistently moist but not wet. Parlor palms appreciate humidity and will benefit from a humidifier or pebble tray. Monstera plants are adaptable and can store water in their leaves to stay hydrated. Hoyas are resilient to lower humidity, and Aglaonema Siam Pink plants do well in low-light environments. Pothos plants are great for beginners and can tolerate drought and low light conditions. Snake plants are known for being drought tolerant, and Baby Rubber plants have semisucculent properties.
Overwatering is the biggest mistake that can lead to the death of houseplants, according to both experts. They recommend using pots with drainage holes to prevent water from clogging at the bottom and causing root rot. Sabharwal suggests watering plants generously until water starts to trickle out the bottom and discarding any excess water. Sterling recommends self-watering pot systems to avoid overwatering. Both experts caution against depriving plants of light, as they need a consistent light source to thrive. Providing proper care, including proper lighting, watering, and humidity levels, can help ensure that your houseplants not only survive but thrive for years to come.
