GUEST POST: 4 PLANTS THAT THRIVE INDOORS

Hey, everyone!

So I love having plants in my home. They really bring a nice freshness to a space, but sometimes I struggle keeping the dang things alive. :)

I am so excited to have Jennifer Riner from Zillow guest blogging here today. She is going to school us on the best indoor plants...plants that are nearly impossible to kill. Yesss!

Clockwise from top: Heidi Mendoza /  Hayneedle / FiorellaDesign

4 Plants that Thrive Indoors

By Jennifer Riner of Zillow

Interior gardens bring life indoors and refresh bland spaces while helping homeowners develop their green thumbs. However, some individuals lack the time to devote to maintaining healthy houseplants or may not be fully prepared to take care of natural life on their own.

With minimal immediate care required, these four types of plants are great for busy or beginner gardeners.

1. Snake Plants

Snake plants are best known for their green-banded, sword-like leaves. They’re also famous for their ability to clean formaldehyde from the atmosphere, and only require semi-regular irrigation. Technically, snake plants don’t require much light to grow, but prefer bright light or at least some natural sun exposure. Make sure to repot snake plants with fresh soil at least once a year, preferably in springtime. Showcase snake plants on floors and table-tops, moving them regularly for fresh, multi-dimensional looks.

2. ZZ Plants

ZZ plants are shiny, slow-growth plants that resist disease and insect problems. They don’t need special soil to grow indoors and can hold onto water for weeks at a time, rendering them practical options for beginner indoor gardeners. Avoid harsh, direct sunlight and over-shaded corners. However tempting it may be, do not overwater any low-maintenance plants, as they typically are accustomed to dry conditions. The soil needs time to dry between watering or plants will rot. For best results, water ZZ plants about once a week. Check the soil to determine necessity – if it’s still moist, wait a few more days.

3. Rubber Plants

Named for their elastic-like appearance, rubber plants grow well indoors next to east-facing windows or those covered with sheer curtains that allow indirect sunlight. They tend to thrive in more humid conditions, and are viable options for homes in Florida and other tropical climates. Rubber plants can grow up to 10 feet tall, so place them in rooms with ample ceiling space to accommodate full-grown trees. Wipe off leaves regularly with damp cloths to keep them moist throughout growth periods. During dormant stages, water rubber plants about once or twice a month. Take notice of drooping leaves, as they indicate lack of water. Increase irrigation slightly until leaves bounce back to their normal state.

4. Cast-Iron Plants

Cast-iron plants work well indoors because they don’t require bright lights, regulated temperatures or consistent watering. The dark green leaves grow directly from the soil at extremely slow rates and mature plants grow about 3 feet high. So they can develop deep roots, water cast-iron plants regularly during the first growth cycle. Slowly decrease watering frequency once roots are established. Cast-iron plants are highly resilient and can even thrive outdoors in temperatures above 23 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s virtually impossible to kill any of these species, but don’t completely neglect indoor plants. Any radical change in appearance could be due to overwatering, dehydration or poor climate conditions.