Simple Houseplant Guide for Beginners!
Updated: Sep 5
Have you been interested in getting some houseplants but have no idea where to start? This guide goes over it all—how to pick the right plant, understanding lighting requirements, common challenges when caring for some of the most popular houseplants, and how to troubleshoot those issues. This post even includes some of the most important watering tips when caring for these plants! We will go over some of the most important details on how to care for over 20 of the most popular houseplants and why they are such popular choices. Pick out your first houseplant with confidence and watch as it grows!
Jump Ahead
3 Easy Tips for Taking Care of Indoor Plants
1. Choosing the Right Plants
Here are the most popular low maintenance plants that are great options if you're just starting out. These plants are known for their resilience and are some of the hardest plants to kill, which make them popular choices for a first houseplant:
Snake Plant
Snake plants are popular plants for newer plant parents because they are very beginner friendly. They thrive in low light, require less frequent watering because they are drought tolerant, and they are resilient to neglect. These plants are also pest resistant and improve indoor air quality because they filter toxins.
Pothos
Pothos are generally considered to be an easier plant to take care of because of their adaptability and resilience. They can thrive in a variety of different lighting conditions, from low light to bright indirect sunlight. They also require minimal watering, which allows them to tolerate occasional neglect because they prefer to dry out between waterings.
Spider Plant
Spider plants are known for their resilience and adaptability, which make them a popular choice for new and experienced plant parents. These plants are similar to pothos plants because they both thrive in different types of light ranging from low light to bright indirect sunlight, and need minimal watering. Spider plants can typically bounce back from periods of drought, making them a great low-maintenance option for anyone who is busy or forgetful.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera plants are known for their low maintenance and simple care requirements. They thrive in well-draining soil (cactus or succulent soil) and only need to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, which typically ends up being every few weeks. Aloe vera plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight and can thrive with minimal attention.
Various Succulents and Cacti
Like aloe vera plants, cacti and succulents are excellent choices for beginner plant parents because of their low maintenance and resilience. These plants are native to dry environments, which means they thrive on minimal watering and can tolerate neglect. They are also typically resistant to pests and diseases, which make them an easier option for people who new to caring for plants.
ZZ Plant
ZZ plants, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia, are known for their resilience and low maintenance care requirements. They thrive in a variety of different lighting conditions, from low light to bright, indirect sunlight, and are generally pretty drought tolerant. Their underground stems (rhizomes) retain moisture, allowing them to survive in dry environments and require less frequent watering, typically every few weeks.
2. Understanding Light Requirements
Each plant requires a different amount of light. Make sure to place each plant that you bring home in a location where it will get the amount of light it needs to thrive. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to lighting:
Most houseplants love bright, indirect light.
Some plants do well in low-light spots.
Give them a spin every now and then for even growth.
This section will give a breakdown of some of the most popular houseplants and their lighting requirements, it will also briefly go over other important care requirements and potential issues you may run into when caring for these plants. If your home doesn't have very much bright light, you can always use a grow light to help make sure your plants are getting the light they need.
Plants That Need Bright, Indirect Light
Monstera Deliciosa
Difficulty Level: Medium
Monstera Deliciosa plants (Swiss Cheese Plant) are considered moderately easy to care for because of their adaptability to various indoor conditions and their relatively low maintenance care requirements. They prefer bright, indirect light and can tolerate lower light levels, though the plant may not look it's best if kept in low light environments. These plants prefer a humid atmosphere, so depending on where you live, this could potentially be a struggle. If any of the leaves have tips that start to brown and feel crispy, this typically tells you that the plant isn't getting enough humidity. If you do not have a more humid location to place your plant, you may want to get a small humidifier to help resolve this issue. Because of their love for humidity, they may attract pests like spider mites and mealybugs, so make sure you regularly check on them to keep them healthy.
One of the most common challenges when caring for these plants is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. If any of the leaves start to turn black, this could be an indication that the roots have started to rot. If you believe your plant may have root rot, you should take the plant out of the pot, separate the roots from the soil, and clip away any roots that have decayed, then replant the pot in a well-draining soil. If any leaves start to yellow or if you notice any brown spots, this typically indicates that the plant has been overwatered, so make sure you are let the soil dry out before watering the plant again. If you notice any strange brown spots, it could also be a sign that the plant has spider mites or aphids. A white, powdery substance on any leaves is typically an indication of mealybugs. Luckily, pests are generally pretty easy to get rid of. Isolate the plant and keep it away from any other plants and spray and wipe the leaves with a neem oil solution.
Peacock Plant
Difficulty Level: Hard
Peacock plants (Calathea Makoyana), are often considered challenging to take care of due to their environmental needs. They require lots of humidity and their soil needs to be consistently moist, making them susceptible to issues like leaf curling and browning if conditions are too dry. Their love for humidity can also attract pests. These plants are also sensitive to fluoride and chlorine, so it is recommended to water them with filtered or distilled water instead of tap water. Peacock plants have delicate leaves that can easily get sunburned if placed in direct light, so make sure these plants are only getting indirect sunlight. They are also sensitive to temperature fluctuations and drafts, which can stress the plant and hinder its growth.
Peacock plants can attract several types pests, including spider mites and mealybugs. To spot these pests, look for signs such as webbing on the leaves, sticky residue, or small, cotton-like clusters. Spider mites often cause yellowing or stippling on the leaves, while mealybugs appear as white, fuzzy spots on the plant. To treat these pests, you can wash the leaves with a gentle stream of water to dislodge them, or apply an insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution for more severe infestations. Make sure you are regularly inspecting your peacock plant and maintaining proper humidity levels to help prevent these pests.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Difficulty Level: Medium
Fiddle leaf fig plants (Ficus Lyrata) are considered moderately difficult to care for, primarily due to their specific environmental and care requirements. One of the main challenges is their sensitivity to changes in light; they thrive in bright, indirect sunlight but can suffer from leaf burn if exposed to direct rays of sun. They require consistent watering, just keep in mind that overwatering can cause root rot, while under-watering can lead to leaf drop. Maintaining the right humidity levels is also crucial, as these plants prefer a humid environment which can be difficult to achieve in dry indoor conditions. Fiddle leaf figs are prone to pests like spider mites and mealybugs, so these plants require regular monitoring and treatment to keep them healthy.
Spider mites and mealybugs are easy spot, you just need to make sure you are being attentive to your fiddle leaf fig so that these pests can be found early and the plant can be treated as soon as possible. If you notice any white, fizzy spots on any of the leaves, that is an indication of mealybugs. Any white, brown, or red moving spots seen on any leaves, or if any fine webbing is usually a sign of spider mites. These pests can be treated with a gentle stream of water, or if the infestation is more severe, treat the leaves with an insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution.
Pinstripe Plant
Difficulty Level: Hard
Pinstripe plants (Calathea Ornata) are generally considered to be challenging plants to take care of due to their environmental needs. These plants have very similar needs to the peacock plant, that being said, they require lots of humidity and their soil needs to be consistently moist, which causes them to be more susceptible to issues like leaf curling and browning if conditions are too dry. Like peacock plants, these plants are also sensitive to fluoride and chlorine found in tap water, so it is recommended to water them with filtered or distilled water. Their love for humidity can also attract pests. They are also sensitive to temperature fluctuations and drafts, which can stress the plant and slow its growth.
The main types of pests to look out for when caring for these plants are spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Signs any of these pests have infested your plant include webbing on the leaves, sticky residue, or small, cotton-like clusters. If you notice any yellowing or stippling on the leaves, this tends to be an indication of spider mites. Aphids tend to cluster on any new growth; mealybugs look like white, fuzzy spots on the plant. To treat these pests, you can wash the leaves with a gentle stream of water, or apply an insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution for more significant infestations.
Rubber Plant
Difficulty Level: Easy
Rubber plants (Ficus elastica) are considered easy to care for because of their resilience and adaptability to various conditions. They thrive in a variety of different light environments, from low to bright indirect light, giving them the ability to thrive in different spaces in your home. Though they can tolerate low light environments, they generally don't do as well as they could if placed in a location with more light. If you can't find a location that would be able to give the plant more light, you can use a grow light to help meet the plant's needs. Their watering needs are straightforward; they prefer to dry out between waterings, which helps prevent overwatering—a common issue for many houseplants. Rubber plants are also generally pretty pest-resistant and can tolerate fluctuations in humidity and temperature. With minimal pruning and occasional fertilization, these plants can grow robustly, making them an ideal choice for both newer and experienced plant parents.
Warning signs to look out for when caring for rubber plants are usually due to issues with watering. If you start to notice any yellow or mushy leaves, the plant has been overwatered, so make sure you are letting the soil dry out between waterings. If any of the leaves begin to droop, sag, or curl, that is typically a sign that the plant is thirsty and needs to be watered. If any of the leaves start to look brown and feel crispy, this is also a sign that the plant is being under-watered. These plants are also sensitive to fluoride and chlorine found in tap water, so it is recommended to water them with filtered or distilled water.
Bird of Paradise
Difficulty Level: Medium
Bird of paradise plants (Strelitzia Reginae) are considered moderately difficult to care for because of their specific environmental and care needs. These tropical plants thrive in warm, humid conditions, and require a careful balance of temperature and moisture that can be challenging to maintain if you do not live in a tropical climate. They need bright, indirect sunlight to thrive, but direct sunlight tends to scorch their leaves. The hardest part about caring for these plants is getting them to flower, the plant itself may be doing well, but that won't guarantee that it will sprout any beautiful flowers. These plants tend to bloom from late Fall through Spring, though this can vary depending on your location and climate.
Bird of Paradise plants are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and prefer a warm, humid climate, making it essential to monitor humidity levels, especially during dry seasons. These plants can attract pests like spider mites and mealybugs, making it important to regularly check on them and treat them as needed. If you notice any sticky residue or tiny, raised brown bumps, this is an indication of scale, white fluffy spots are generally a sign of mealybugs, and if you see any fine webbing or pale speckling that is usually spider mites. If your plant does attract any pests, treat the infected leaves with a neem oil solution. If you're trying to get your plant to flower, bird of paradise love to be root-bound, make sure the plant's lighting needs are being met, fertilize once a month, and keep the plant's moisture consistent!
Round Leaf Prayer Plant
Difficulty Level: Medium
Round leaf prayer plants (Calathea Orbifolia) are often considered mildly challenging to take care of because of their environmental needs. These plants have very similar needs to the peacock and pinstripe plants because they are all different varieties of Calathea. That being said, they require lots of humidity and their soil needs to be consistently moist, which makes them susceptible to issues like leaf curling and browning if they get too dry. Because they love humidity, they tend to attract pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. They are also sensitive to temperature fluctuations and drafts, which can cause stress to the plant and slow its growth.
Round leaf prayer plants tend to be sensitive to fluoride and chlorine found in tap water, so it is typically suggested to water them with filtered or distilled water. These plants tend to attract several types pests, including spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Any webbing on the leaves, sticky residue, or small, cotton-like clusters can be signs of these pests. Spider mites typically cause yellowing or stippling on the leaves, aphids cluster on any new growth. White, fuzzy spots on the plant tend to be mealybugs. To get rid of these pests, wash the leaves with a gentle stream of water, or apply an insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution for more severe infestations.
Jade Plant
Difficulty Level: Easy
Jade plants (Crassula Ovata) are known for their resilience and adaptability, which is why they are typically considered easy to care for. They thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, they do prefer bright, indirect sunlight, but they can also tolerate lower light if necessary. Since this plant is a type of succulent, they have the ability to store water in their leaves, which allows them to be drought tolerant. Since jade plants require minimal watering, they are not particularly susceptible to any pests or diseases.
Overwatering and lack of light tend to be the main struggles when it comes to caring for Jade plants. When these plants are overwatered the leaves will turn yellow and mushy. If you notice that the leaves have begun to shrivel up, this is a sign that the plant needs to be watered. These plants tend to be pretty resilient and can generally recover pretty quick when they are under-watered. If you notice that the stems look stretched and leggy, this usually means that the plant needs more light. If you can't find a location that would be able to give the plant more light, you can use a grow light to help meet your jade plant's needs.
Plants That Can Tolerate Low Light
ZZ Plant
Difficulty Level: Easy
ZZ plants (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) are generally considered easy plants to take care of due to their resilience and ability to thrive in a variety of different conditions. They can tolerate low light, a range of different temperatures, and are drought tolerant. They produce potato-like, underground stems called rhizomes that store water and nutrients, which is why they are tolerant to drought, rhizomes also help them survive periods of neglect. ZZ plants are also generally pretty pest-resistant due to their drought tolerance.
One of the most common struggles when caring for this plant is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Signs that the plant has been overwatered include yellow or mushy leaves. If you notice any signs of overwatering, check the roots and make sure the plant doesn't have root rot. Healthy roots are firm and white or light beige. If any of the roots are black, brown, or gray is a sign of rotted roots. Any mushy or soft rhizomes is also a sign of root rot. If you notice any signs of root rot after removing your plant from the pot you will need to clip away any roots that have decayed, then replant the pot in a well-draining soil. ZZ plants can also be sensitive to cold temperatures and drafts.
Cast Iron Plant
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cast iron plants (Aspidistra Elatior) are known for their low maintenance requirements and resilience, which make them a popular choice for both new and experienced plant parents. They are able to tolerate low light conditions, less frequent watering, don't require much pruning, and thrive in a range of different temperatures, which is why they are considered easy to take care of and are such a popular plant for many homes and offices. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause some of the leaves to burn, so be careful with the plant's placement to ensure optimal growth.
Common challenges when caring for cast iron plants include overwatering, which can lead to root rot or pest infestations, such as spider mites or scale. If any of the leaves turn yellow or brown, you notice any drooping leaves, or soggy soil that smells sour, these are all signs that the plant has been overwatered. Plant infestations are rare, but be on the look out for any signs of pests such as small, cotton-like clusters (mealybugs), speckling or fine-webbing on leaves (spider-mites), or small, stationary bumps on the stems or leaf ribs (scale).
Pothos
Difficulty Level: Easy
Pothos plants (Epipremnum Aureum) are known for being almost impossible to kill, which is why they tend to be an extremely popular choice for plant parents. They have the ability to thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, they thrive in bright indirect sunlight, but can also easily tolerate low light environments as well, making these plants very adaptable and versatile. These plants love humid environments but still have the ability to thrive in drier environments as well. Pothos are also forgiving when it comes to watering; as they prefer to completely dry out between waterings and are extremely tolerant to neglect.
Overwatering is the most common struggle when it comes to caring for pothos, signs of this include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or wet and soggy soil that doesn't dry. If you notice any signs of overwatering, make sure you are letting the soil completely dry out before watering again. Another challenge with these plants is managing their growth, because pothos can become quite leggy if not pruned regularly. Despite these minor challenges, their resilience and low maintenance requirements make them the perfect choice for someone just getting started and is newer to caring for plants.
Snake Plant
Difficulty Level: Easy
Snake plants, or mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria Trifasciata) are popular houseplants because of they are low maintenance and resilient. These plants are also one of the hardest plants to kill and make a great plant choice for beginners. They are very adaptable plants that can thrive in environments with bright indirect light, as well as locations with low light. They are drought-tolerant, which means they require less frequent watering compared to a lot of other plants. Snake plants are succulents, so they are able to store moisture in their leaves.
Snake plants are one of the easiest plants to take care of, that being said, the biggest potential challenge when it comes to caring for them is overwatering. When it comes to watering these plants, less is more. If any of the leaves start to droop or yellow, this could indicate that the plant could have been overwatered. Make sure you're letting the soil completely dry out, and if you notice any signs of overwatering, definitely check the roots for any signs of root rot. Healthy roots are light in color and firm, if any of the roots are mushy, brown, or black, those roots are rotted and need to be trimmed off before repotting the plant in dry soil.
Peace Lily
Difficulty Level: Medium
Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are considered moderately difficult to take care of because of their specific environmental needs and sensitivity to changes. Peace lilies do well in low to medium light, and direct light should be avoided because it could burn their leaves. They also require a humid environment, which can be challenging in drier climates or during winter months. It is important to mention that peace lilies are toxic to pets, so if you have any animals at home, make sure the plant is out of reach to prevent your pets from chewing on any of the leaves.
One of the most common struggles is maintaining the right balance of moisture in the soil. Wait to water your peace lily until the top inch of the soil is dry, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Signs that the plant has been overwatered include limp, drooping, or yellowing leaves. These plants are also sensitive to fluoride and chlorine found in tap water, so it is recommended to water peace lilies with filtered or distilled water. Peace lilies are prone to pest infestations, such as spider mites and mealybugs, which can further complicate their care. Spider mites cause yellowing or stippling on the leaves, while white, fuzzy spots on the plant tend to be mealybugs. To get rid of these pests, wash the leaves with a gentle stream of water, or apply an insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution for more severe infestations.
Philodendron
Difficulty Level: Easy
Philodendrons are popular houseplants because of their aesthetic and their versatility. They are adaptable to various light conditions, ranging from low light to bright indirect sunlight, which allows them to thrive in a variety of different indoor environments. They require minimal watering, because they prefer to dry out between waterings. If any of the leaves begin to yellow and/or droop, this could be a sign that the plant is being overwatered. Make sure the top inch of soil is dry before watering the plant so the plant doesn't get overwatered, which can lead to root rot.
Some common struggles with philodendrons include dealing with pests like spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and aphids. Spider mites usually cause yellowing or stippling on the leaves. Aphids cluster on any new growth and are tiny, pear-shaped insects that are found under the leaves. White, fuzzy spots on the plant are typically an indication of mealybugs. Thrips tend to cause damage to the plant's leaves and can cause silvery streaks, stippling, or browning. To get rid of these pests, wash the leaves with a gentle stream of water, or apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil for more severe infestations. Despite these challenges, these plants are generally pretty resilient and forgiving, which is why philodendrons tend to be so popular.
Chinese Evergreen
Difficulty Level: Easy
Chinese evergreen plants (Aglaonema) are typically considered to be easy plants to care for because of their resilience and adaptability, which is why they are a popular choice for new and experienced plant parents. These plants thrive in a variety of different light conditions, from low light to bright indirect sunlight, and require minimal watering, as they prefer to dry out between waterings. Their tolerance to neglect and ability to withstand varying humidity levels contribute to their reputation as low-maintenance houseplants.
The most common challenge when caring for these plants is their susceptibility to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. If you notice any yellowing or drooping leaves, this usually indicates that the plant has been overwatered. Keep in mind that healthy roots are light in color and firm, if you see any roots that are mushy, brown, or black, those roots are rotted and need to be trimmed off before repotting the plant in dry soil. Even though these plants are generally hardy, sometimes sudden changes in environmental conditions can cause stress, resulting in yellowing leaves or stunted growth.
Dracaena Lisa
Difficulty Level: Easy
Lisa dragon trees (Dracaena Lisa) are considered easy to take care of because of their resilience and adaptability. When it comes to their watering needs, these plants require less frequent watering and can easily be overwatered. Make sure you allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. They thrive in low to bright indirect light and can tolerate occasional neglect, which make these trees a popular choice for newer plant parents.
Since lisa dragon trees are somewhat drought tolerant, one of the most common struggles when caring for this plant tends to be it's susceptibility to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. If any of the leaves start to yellow or you notice any soft or mushy stems at the base, definitely take the tree out of the pot and inspect for root rot. Once the plant has been removed from the pot and you can see the roots, look for any roots that are mushy, brown, or black, those roots are rotted and need to be trimmed off before repotting the plant in dry soil. These trees prefer humid climates, if the plant is needing additional humidity, you might notice browning on some of the tips of the leaves. If you don't have a more humid location to move your plant to, you may want to place a humidifier near the plant to help alleviate this issue.
Parlor Palm
Difficulty Level: Medium
Parlor palms (Chamaedorea elegans), while popular for their attractive foliage and ability to thrive in low-light conditions, can be moderately challenging to care for due to several factors. One of the primary challenges is their sensitivity to overwatering. They require a delicate balance of moisture in the soil, as too much water can lead to root rot, while too little can cause the leaves to brown and drop. Additionally, parlor palms prefer higher humidity levels, which can be difficult to maintain in dry indoor environments, especially during winter months.
They also tend to be susceptible to pests like spider mites and mealybugs, which can affect their health if not managed promptly. Any yellowing or stippling on the leaves are usually indications of spider mites. While white, fuzzy spots on the plant are typically a sign of mealybugs. If the infestation is caught early, you can rinse any infected leaves with a gentle stream of water or insecticidal soap. Neem oil solutions are also a common treatment for any unwanted pests. These palms grow slowly, meaning it can take time for them to reach their full potential, that being said, they require patience and consistent care from the owner in order to thrive.
Spider Plant
Difficulty Level: Easy
Spider plants are often considered to be easier plants to take care of because of their resilience, drought tolerance, and versatility. They can thrive in a variety of different lighting conditions, ranging from low light to bright indirect sunlight. They require minimal watering, because they prefer to dry out between waterings. When it comes to watering these plants, less is more, which helps prevent overwatering—a common issue for many houseplants.
Some common struggles with spider plants include dealing with brown tips on the leaves, which is a result from inconsistent watering, low humidity, or high fluoride levels in tap water. If you notice any brown tips, start with changing your watering routine that includes watering on a consistent schedule, making sure the soil dries out between waterings. If changing the watering routine doesn't help with the browning, stop watering with tap water and start using filtered or distilled water instead. If there is still browning on the tips of the leaves, you may need to get a humidifier or move the plant to a more humid location in your home if possible.
3. Intentional Watering
Over and under-watering tend to be one of the most common mistakes when caring for houseplants. Keep these tips in mind to help your plant thrive:
Check if the soil is dry before you water.
Water thoroughly and let the extra water drain out.
Change up your watering routine based on the season and humidity.
Fertilize as needed, follow the instructions on your fertilizer container to ensure this step is being done properly.
In this section we will give a breakdown of the plants that require less watering compared to plants that require more consistent watering. We will also go over each plant's soil and fertilization needs, as well as common indicators of overwatering and under-watering.
Plants that require less frequent watering
Snake Plant
Watering Frequency: Every 2-6 weeks, depending on the season and humidity levels. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During fall and winter snake plants can go up to 8 weeks between waterings.
Soil: Any loose, fast-draining soil mix that dries out quickly. There are pre-made soil mixes made specifically for succulents and cacti that work great. If you plan to make your own, 50-70% of the mix should be made with inorganic materials like perlite, course sand, or pumice, 25% with potting soil, and 10-30% with organic matter like coco coir or light potting compost.
Indicators: Yellowing leaves or mushy roots may indicate overwatering, while shriveled leaves may suggest that the plant is thirsty.
Fertilizing: Every 4-6 weeks during spring through early fall. Don't fertilize during late fall or winter when the plant is dormant.
ZZ Plant
Watering Frequency: Every 2-3 weeks, ensuring that the soil has dried out completely between waterings. During the fall and winter months the plant is dormant and can go 4-6 weeks between waterings.
Soil: These plants need a loose and fast-draining soil mix. An ideal soil mix for ZZ plants contain 50% potting mix, 30% pumice or perlite, and 20% orchid bark.
Indicators: Leaves start to droop or become soft when the plant needs to be watered, while yellowing leaves typically indicate overwatering.
Fertilizing: Every 2-3 months during the spring and summer months. ZZ plants don't need to be fertilized during fall and winter because the plant is dormant.
Aloe Vera
Watering Frequency: Every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); reduce to every 4-6 weeks in fall and winter. The soil should be completely dry before the next watering.
Soil: Any loose, fast-draining soil mix that dries out quickly. Any pre-made soil mixes made specifically for succulents and cacti work great. If you plan to make your own, 50-70% of the mix should be made with inorganic materials like perlite, course sand, or pumice, 25% with potting soil, and 10-30% with organic matter like coco coir or light potting compost.
Indicators: Leaves may become wrinkled or shriveled if the plant is under-watered. When the leaves start to yellow, this can indicate that the plant has been overwatered.
Fertilizing: Once a month during spring and summer. Skip out on fertilizing during fall and winter because the plant is dormant.
Jade Plant
Watering Frequency: Every 2-3 weeks, make sure that the soil has dried out completely between waterings. During dormant season (fall and winter), the plant can go 4-6 weeks between waterings.
Soil: Any loose, fast-draining soil mix that dries out quickly. There are pre-made soil mixes made specifically for succulents and cacti that will work perfectly. If you plan to make your own, 50-70% of the mix should be made with inorganic materials like perlite, course sand, or pumice, 25% with potting soil, and 10-30% with organic matter like coco coir or light potting compost.
Indicators: When the leaves start to wrinkle or shrivel, this indicates that the plant needs water. Yellowing leaves may indicate that the plant has been overwatered.
Fertilizing: Every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer months. Jade plants shouldn't be fertilized during fall and winter since the plant is dormant.
Rubber Plant
Watering Frequency: Every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. During fall and winter rubber plants can go 2-3 weeks between waterings since the plant is dormant.
Soil: This plant needs a fast-draining and aerated soil mixture like ZZ plants. An ideal soil mix for rubber plants contain 50% potting mix, 30% pumice or perlite, and 20% orchid bark.
Indicators: Leaves may droop or curl when the plant needs water; yellowing leaves typically tells you that the plant has been overwatered.
Fertilizing: Every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer. Do not fertilize during fall or winter because the plant is dormant and growth slows down.
Cast Iron Plant
Watering Frequency: Every 2-4 weeks, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Reduce watering to every 4-6 weeks during fall and winter.
Soil: Cast iron plants can do well with any standard indoor potting mix. It's not necessary, but it is generally recommended to mix the potting mix with perlite or pumice and orchid bark to help with drainage. The recommended ratio if you do plan to mix those in with the soil would be 50% potting mix, 25% perlite or pumice, and 25% orchid bark.
Indicators: Leaves may droop when the plant needs water. Yellow, soft leaves or brown or black spots on any leaves typically indicates that the plant has been overwatered.
Fertilizing: Once a month during the spring and summer months. Cast iron plants shouldn't be fertilized during fall and winter because they are dormant.
Cacti/Succulents
Watering Frequency: Every 2-4 weeks, depending on the season and climate. In the growing season (spring and summer), they require more frequent watering. During the dormant season (fall and winter) only water every 4-6 weeks.
Soil: Any loose, fast-draining soil mix that dries out quickly. Any pre-made soil mixes made specifically for succulents and cacti are perfect. If you plan to make your own, 50-70% of the mix should be made with inorganic materials like perlite, course sand, or pumice, 25% with potting soil, and 10-30% with organic matter like coco coir or light potting compost.
Indicators: Any wrinkling or shriveling, or if the color fades or becomes dull the plant is thirsty. If the plant becomes mushy or is discolored, that could indicate overwatering.
Fertilizing: Once a month during spring and summer. Cacti and succulents are dormant during fall and winter months so they don't need to be fertilized.
*** Dormant (n): Temporarily inactive, sleeping, or at rest, but with the ability to become active, grow, or wake up in the future.
Plants that require more frequent watering
Peace Lily
Watering Frequency: Once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry. During dormant months (fall and winter) water every 2-3 weeks, but make sure you are checking the soil and watering appropriately.
Soil: An airy, well-draining soil that mimics the floor of forests. The best ratio of ingredients is 60% peat moss or coco coir, 30% perlite or pumice, and 10% worm castings.
Indicators: Drooping leaves indicate that the plant is thirsty, while yellowing leaves can suggest overwatering.
Fertilizing: Every 4-6 weeks in the spring and summer. Skip fertilizing during fall and winter months because the plant is dormant.
Bird of Paradise
Watering Frequency: Keep the soil consistently moist, watering every 2-3 days in warmer months and less frequently (every 2-3 weeks) in cooler months. The plant needs to be watered when the top 2-3 inches of soil are completely dry.
Soil: Well-draining tropical soil that contains about 60-70% drainage material and 30-40% organic matter. Perlite or pumice can be used as drainage materials and can be mixed with some cactus soil as well. Examples of organic matter that can be mixed into the soil include worm castings, orchid bark, or compost.
Indicators: The leaves will start to brown and droop if the plant is under-watered, while yellowing fronds or mushy stems may indicate overwatering.
Fertilizing: Every 3-4 weeks during spring and summer, do not fertilize during fall and winter months because the plant is dormant.
Peacock Plant
Watering Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, which is typically once a week. During fall and winter the plant won't need to be watered as much since it is dormant, but check the soil and water as needed.
**these plants are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine found in tap water and will struggle if not watered with filtered or distilled water.
Soil: Airy soil that stays moist but not soaked. It is recommended to create a mix that contains 40-50% coco coir, 20-30% fine bark, 15-20% perlite or pumice, and small amounts of worm castings. You can also mix in a little bit of biochar, but this is not necessary.
Indicators: Curling leaves can indicate under-watering, while yellowing leaves typically suggest that the plant has been overwatered.
Fertilizing: Every 2-4 weeks during the spring and summer months. Peacock plants don't need to be fertilized during fall and winter because the plant is dormant.
Spider Plant
Watering Frequency: Every 1-2 weeks, make sure that the top inch of soil has dried out. During fall and winter the plant will need to be watered less frequently, so make sure you are checking the soil and only watering when the top inch of soil has completely dried out.
Soil: Any loose and well-draining soil like a standard indoor potting mix. If you want to make your own mix, you can create your own that contains 60% indoor potting soil and 40% perlite, pumice, or orchid bark.
Indicators: Brown tips on leaves may indicate the plant has been under-watered, while yellowing suggests overwatering.
Fertilizing: Every 2-4 weeks during growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize during dormant season (fall and winter).
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Watering Frequency: Every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. During fall and winter they will need to be watered less frequently, so make sure you are checking the soil and only watering when the top inch of soil has completely dried out.
Soil: Any chunky and well-draining soil, high in organic matter. It is recommended to create your own mix with 2/3 parts peat (66%) and 1/3 parts perlite (34%).
Indicators: Leaves may start to droop, curl, or brown when the plant needs water. Yellowing leaves can indicate that the plant has been overwatered.
Fertilizing: Once a month during spring and summer. Skip fertilizing during dormant season, which is fall and winter.
Round Leaf Prayer Plant & Pinstripe Plant
Watering Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, which is typically once a week. During fall and winter the plant won't need to be watered as much since it is dormant, but make sure you are consistently checking the soil and watering as needed.
**these plants are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine found in tap water and will struggle if not watered with filtered or distilled water.
Soil: Any airy soil that stays moist but not soaked. It is recommended to create a mix that contains 40-50% coco coir, 20-30% fine bark, 15-20% perlite or pumice, and small amounts of worm castings. You can also mix in a little bit of biochar, but this is not required.
Indicators: Leaves will droop if the plant is thirsty, while yellowing leaves may indicate that the plant has been overwatered.
Fertilizing: Every 2-4 weeks during the spring and summer months. Skip out on fertilizing during fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Philodendron
Watering Frequency: Every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. During dormant season (fall and winter), the plant will need to be watered less frequently so make sure you are checking the soil prior to watering.
Soil: A chunky, airy, and well-draining soil that mimics the floor of the rainforest. It is recommended to create your own mix that contains 2 parts (50%) indoor potting soil, 1 (25%) part perlite, 1 (25%) part coco coir or peat moss, and a little bit of compost or worm castings.
Indicators: Drooping leaves can indicate a need for water, while yellowing leaves may suggest overwatering.
Fertilizing: Every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer. Philodendrons are dormant during fall and winter, so they shouldn't be fertilized during this time.
Monstera Deliciosa
Watering Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, which is every 1-2 weeks, during growing sseason (spring and summer). Water less frequently during fall and winter, before watering, make sure that the top inch of soil has completely dried out to avoid overwatering.
Soil: Chunky, loose, and well-draining soil that mimics the rainforest floor. It is recommended to create your own mix that has a base foundation that consists of 60% of the overall contents. The base foundation should include 30% indoor potting mix, 20% perlite, and 10% compost. The mix should also be made up of 40% chunky bits (30% orchid bark and 10% coco coir).
Indicators: If the leaves start to droop or become crispy, it may be a sign of under-watering. If you notice any yellowing leaves or mushy stems, these could be indicators of overwatering.
Fertilizing: Every 2-4 weeks during growing season (spring and summer months). Do not fertilize during fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Top 3 Game-Changers for Plant Care
Grow lights give your plants the light they need to thrive, especially if you're growing them indoors or in places that don't get much sunlight. They're a game-changer for keeping your plants looking beautiful and can help prevent browning.
A soil moisture meter is a handy tool that tells you how wet or dry your soil is, so you know exactly when to water your plants. It helps you avoid overwatering or under-watering, which helps keep your plants happy and healthy. I love this product because it takes a lot of the guess work out of watering.
These cool little water storing crystals, also known as hydrogel, soak up water and slowly release it to your plants as needed. They're perfect for cutting down on watering chores and keeping your soil just right, especially when it's dry out.
Explore the Top Products for Plant Care!
Check out our selection of important plant care products that we consider to be game-changers! These products will make caring for your houseplants so much easier!
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