Easiest Plants to Keep Alive

7 of the Easiest Houseplants to Care For

By Caroline Nagrodsky Posted on 10/12/22

Not all of us are gifted with green thumbs, but there is still hope for you! Houseplants are a great way to spice up your decor and bring some greenery into your space. There are many benefits as well! Houseplants can improve your air quality, reduce stress, and support cognitive health. Here is a list of the easiest plants to keep alive: 

Money Tree

The money tree (Pachira aquatica) does not actually grow money, but it is seen to be a symbol of luck and prosperity. They like a mixture of direct and indirect light and only require a good watering every one to two weeks. Like most houseplants, good drainage is required if you want to keep your plants alive. Terracotta pots are great for this!  They enjoy 65-75 degrees, so inside is a great place for these guys. You’ll definitely save some cash with this plant! 

Money tree
Source: Narisa Spaulding

Pothos

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)  is another great plant for beginners. Also known as the Devil’s Ivy, this plant is very undemanding. They tolerate very low light, which makes it great for an office space. However, if your plant has more white, it may not be suitable for low light areas. These plants can thrive in dry soil as well as directly in water, which makes it practically fool proof. 

pothos
Source: ProFlowers

Philodendron  

Philodendron (Philodendreae) varieties are probably what most people think of when it comes to trendy houseplants. These plants will add a tropical flare to any room. They require significantly more light than the other plants mentioned above, but don’t let that deter you from these plants. They like loose potting soil, a moderate amount of water, and bright, indirect light. Some varieties include split leaf, blushing, and princess. 

Philodendron
Source: PINKE

Air Plants

Air plants may be the most foolproof on this list. They do not require any soil and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. These plants look like they came straight off of Mars with their alien-like leaves. While these plants seemingly survive on air, they do require the right amount of light and water. They need to be watered about once per week and like indirect light. As for decorating with these, the possibilities are endless. Place them in terrariums in groups or hang them in small glass bulbs alone. 

Air plant
Source: Joe Calhoun

Cacti 

Cacti (Cactaceae) seems like it would be a given, but there are many different varieties to choose from. Some require more care than others. Low maintenance varieties include the prickly pear, orchid, and barrel cactus. Similarly to the other plants on this list, make sure your cactus is getting enough light and water. Underwatering is usually an issue when it comes to cactus care. They require more water than you think but water less frequently. 

Barrel cactus
Source: Kit

Peace Lily 

The peace lily (Spathiphyllum) makes a beautiful addition to your home. They like bright, indirect light. The soil should be moist at all times, and they will tell you when they are ready for more water. The leaves will start to droop when they are thirsty. Like other houseplants, they enjoy a temperature between 60 and 70 degrees. 

Peace lily
Source: Tim Green

Snake Plant 

Next up is the snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata). This plant has stiff leaves that grow to about 6-8 inches. Snake plants like steady light, both direct and indirect. Loose potting soil with good drainage is a must to keep these guys alive. The soil should dry completely between waterings. Unlike the other plants mentioned above, you should underwater instead of overwater. There are many different types of snake plants to fit whichever spiky aesthetic you are looking for. 

Snake plant
Source: jalexartis Photography

 

Not all plants are hard work! Hopefully you’ll be able to keep at least one of these alive. Set a weekly reminder to water your plants, and make sure they are getting the right amount of light. We offer a variety of growing guides and plant suppliers on our site. Get your houseplant family started today!