Too busy to bother about indoor plants? But like the look of indoor greenery? These carefree plants might just get you hooked.
On the whole, keeping indoor plants alive, and even looking good, doesn’t take much effort. They prefer under watering to over watering. Many tolerate low to medium light and are slow growers that can stay in the same pot for two to three or more years.
Our homes are warm which suits indoor plants that originate from tropical areas and our summer lifestyle of open doors and windows in summer is ideal for them.
A good place to start is with low-maintenance indoor plants, and this selection of hard-to-kill plants can brighten up the home with minimal effort from you.
Sansevieria
Also known as Mother-in-law’s-tongue this plant is almost impossible to kill. Its adaptable, tolerating low light but also happy with bright light. Its also not fussy about watering. Water it every now and then, when you remember. Better that, than over watering it. Allow the top few centimetres of soil to dry in between waterings. This is a slow grower that doesn’t take up much space. It is also an air purifying plant that filters toxins from the air and absorbs moisture.
Phalaenopsis orchid
Of all the indoor flowering plants this is the easiest to care for and it flowers for longer than other indoor flowers. All this orchid needs is a position that receives bright light (even a south facing window) and a dribble of water every now and then. The range of flower colours is breathtaking and plants also range in size from mini’s to midi’s and large.
Zamioculcas
Better known as the ZZ plant, this is one of the hardiest plants around and includes a variation called Raven which has almost black leaves. Plants grow in low to medium light and although they prefer regular watering, they can survive for a month without it. In fact, the worst thing you can do is to over water a ZZ plant. The thick stems are a water-storage mechanism to help it get through seasonally dry times.
Calandiva and Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe and Calandiva are succulents that need very little care, good light and moist but not wet soil. Their fleshy succulent leaves hold water which helps them withstand periods of drought. The long lasting flowers come in a range of vivid colours. When the flowers are over, cut them off, feed with a liquid fertiliser and the plants will flower again
Delicious Monster
The name (Monstera deliciosa) is very apt. It has the biggest leaves of all the houseplants and they are extremely decorative. These undemanding and easy to care for houseplants are especially suitable for beginner plant parents because they can tolerate low light and less water. Unlike some other tropical plants, they don’t need high humidity. The larger plants can be trimmed to fit into smaller spaces but for the full effect give them space to grow. Because the leaves are so eye catching, keep them clean and glossy by regularly wiping with a damp cloth.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Spathiphyllum like filtered sunlight, should not be over watered and are quite happy if they become a bit rootbound in the pot. A general rule is to let the top few centimetres of soil dry out before watering. If the leaves droop give it a good watering or let it stand in a bucket of water for a while so that it draws up water. Boost leaf growth with a liquid feed once a month, or when your remember, in summer.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are very rewarding, with single or double blooms in a multitude of colours. To flower well they need bright light or some morning sun. Keep soil moist but don’t over water. Keep them flowering by dead heading or cutting back and feeding with a liquid fertiliser once a month.
For more information: www.lvgplant.co.za
Article and images by Alice Coetzee.
