Houseplants brighten a room and make a home feel more lived-in. Unfortunately, many of us have a history of good intentions followed by wilted leaves. If you tend to forget about watering, these hardy plants are a great place to start.
Snake plant
The snake plant is famously difficult to kill. Its upright, sword-like leaves store water, so it only needs watering every few weeks. It tolerates low light but will grow faster in a brighter spot. Overwatering is the most common problem, so err on the side of neglect.
ZZ plant
With glossy, deep green leaves, the ZZ plant looks polished with very little effort. It grows from thick underground rhizomes that hold water, allowing it to survive long dry spells. It is well suited to offices and rooms without much natural light.
Pothos
Pothos is a trailing plant that looks lovely on a shelf or in a hanging basket. It is forgiving and will usually perk up quickly after a drink if you forget it for a while. Its leaves will droop slightly when it needs water, giving you a helpful reminder.
Succulents
Succulents store water in their fleshy leaves and prefer to dry out completely between waterings. They do need plenty of light, so place them on a sunny windowsill. They are ideal for small spaces and come in a huge range of shapes and colours.
A few general tips
Always choose pots with drainage holes to prevent roots from sitting in water. Check the soil with your finger before watering; if it feels damp, wait a few more days. Setting a simple reminder on your phone can also help build the habit.
Keep in mind that some common houseplants can be harmful to pets if eaten, so check before bringing one home. With the right plant in the right spot, even the most forgetful owner can enjoy a greener home.
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