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Want to Green Up Your Home? Here Are 3 Houseplants That Can Survive Anything
Would you love to take care of something but feel that a pet doesn't fit into your life (or apartment) right now? A houseplant can bring color to your home, improve air quality, and lift your mood. In today’s blog post, our student cooperative introduces you to three potential housemates that can survive even the most determined "plant killers." Join us!
1. The Ever-Resilient Snake Plant
Officially known as Sansevieria, this houseplant is available in many varieties in garden centers. Its humorous nickname comes from its long, pointed leaves, the most common of which have yellow edges. If you tend to forget about watering, this is the perfect housemate for you: its vertically growing leaves store a lot of moisture, making it excellent at tolerating dry, warm indoor air. It handles extreme conditions well and won't mind if it goes a couple of weeks without water. Primarily known as a foliage plant, mature specimens can also flower. Its white flowers grow in clusters and, though not flashy, have a very pleasant fragrance.
Take note: The mature plant can reach up to 120 cm in height, so it requires relatively large space. Its leaves are toxic, so it's not recommended for homes with pets.
2. Perfect for Darker Apartments: The Fern!
While there are countless fern varieties, their care needs are quite similar across small and large types, as well as those with smooth or curly leaves. This houseplant loves humidity, so it's worth humidifying around it or even placing it in the bathroom. If you don't want to mist its leaves regularly, set the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water to provide adequate humidity. Its elegant, widely spreading leaves are a favorite among many, though you can't expect flowers from it.
Take note: Ferns do not fare well in direct sunlight; choose a semi-shady, drafty spot for them. They are happiest when the room temperature is between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius.
3. From South America to Your Home: Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has long been one of the most famous ornamental plants, known for its special healing properties and cosmetic uses. When considering buying one, ensure you choose a plant at least 30 cm tall with healthy, densely packed leaves. Place it in a bright room away from direct sunlight. In winter, it goes into a dormant state and prefers cooler temperatures (around 5 degrees Celsius). It's an ideal choice for forgetful gardeners, as it can reportedly survive for up to six months without water.
Take note: Aloe vera requires a lot of space both in width and height, so it's only recommended for homes where you can provide the ideal conditions.
Found a Housemate You Like? Head to a Garden Center!
The experts working there will give you useful advice on the needs of your chosen houseplant. Before purchasing, consider how much time you can dedicate to plant care and make a "smart" decision for both of you!
