Living in a compact apartment doesn’t mean giving up on the joys of greenery. Indoor plants not only add a touch of nature’s beauty but also purify the air and boost your mood. Here are 10 fantastic plant choices that thrive in limited square footage.
See also: 5 plants for your bookshelf.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
This architectural wonder boasts upright, sword-like leaves with vibrant green patterns. Nearly indestructible, it tolerates low light and infrequent watering, making it perfect for beginners.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Another low-maintenance champion, the ZZ plant features glossy, deep green foliage. It requires minimal watering and can survive in various light conditions, adding a touch of elegance to shelves or desks.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Known for its air-purifying properties, the peace lily features elegant white blooms that rise above lush green foliage. It thrives in medium to low light and even alerts you when thirsty by dropping its leaves.
String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
This whimsical succulent sports cascading strings of plump, pearl-like beads. It requires well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight, adding a unique touch to hanging planters or window sills.
Air Plants (Tillandsia)
These fascinating plants don’t need soil! They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. Simply mist them occasionally and provide bright, indirect light for an eye-catching addition to terrariums or decorative spheres.
Pilea Peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)
This adorable plant boasts round, coin-shaped leaves said to bring prosperity. It thrives in medium to bright, indirect light and requires watering when the top inch of soil dries out.
Philodendron (Various Species)
With a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours, philodendrons offer something for everyone. Most prefer medium, indirect light and well-draining soil, making them adaptable and versatile additions to any space.
Ferns (Various Species)
Ferns add a touch of whimsy with their feathery fronds. They prefer moderate to high humidity, so misting them regularly is helpful. Choose a variety suited to your light conditions, as some ferns prefer bright, indirect light, while others tolerate lower light levels.
Bromeliad (Various Species)
These colourful tropical plants come in a stunning array of blooms and foliage. Most require bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. The central “cup” at the base of the plant should be kept filled with water.
Cacti (Various Species)
Cacti are the ultimate low-maintenance plants, perfect for forgetful waterers. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and require bright light and well-draining soil. Water them only when the soil is completely dry.
Maintaining your mini jungle
- Light: Understanding your plant’s light needs is crucial. Most prefer bright, indirect sunlight. South-facing windows provide the most light, while north-facing ones receive the least. Rotate your plants regularly for even growth.
- Watering: Overwatering is a common mistake. Most houseplants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. Stick your finger in the soil to check for moisture before watering.
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. Look for potting mixes specifically formulated for houseplants.
- Fertilising: During the growing season (spring and summer), a balanced fertiliser diluted according to package instructions can be applied every few weeks.
With a little care, these top picks will bring life and beauty to your cosy space. So, breathe easy, embrace the green thumb within and watch your tiny haven flourish.
FAQs
I have almost no natural light in my apartment. Are there any plants on this list that will survive?
Some plants on the list tolerate lower light conditions. ZZ plant, Snake Plant and certain fern varieties can manage with indirect light. However, even these will struggle in complete darkness.
I travel frequently for work. Are there any plants that are nearly impossible to kill?
Snake Plants, ZZ Plants and Air Plants are all incredibly resilient and require minimal watering. They're perfect for those with busy schedules. Cacti are another option, but they do need some sunlight.
I'm worried about my pets nibbling on the plants. Are any on this list toxic?
Unfortunately, some common houseplants are toxic to pets. If you have furry friends, be sure to research the specific plant before bringing it home. Snake Plants, ZZ Plants and Bromeliads are generally considered pet-safe.
My apartment gets quite hot. Are there any heat-loving plants?
Most indoor plants prefer moderate temperatures. However, Bromeliads and certain Philodendrons can tolerate warmer environments.
How often should I mist my plants?
Misting can be helpful for ferns and some other plants that prefer higher humidity. However, it's not a substitute for proper watering. Generally, misting once a day or every other day is sufficient.
My Peace Lily keeps drooping. Am I watering it wrong?
Peace Lilies are known for communicating their watering needs. If the leaves are drooping, it's usually a sign the plant is thirsty. Water it thoroughly and it should perk back up within a day or two.
My Snake Plant isn't growing. What could be the issue?
Snake Plants are slow growers, so don't be discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Ensure it's planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Fertilizing occasionally during the growing season can also encourage growth.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
