I am no expert when it comes to houseplants. As a matter of fact, I only started purchasing and tending to houseplants after my mother passed in late 2016. She had a love for gardening and was often found outside tending to her rose bushes. After she passed, I felt great remorse for yelling at her every time she’d show up at my doorstep with another houseplant. Below is a list of a few of my favorite houseplants and a brief overview of each one.
Monstera (Monstera deliciosa): Also known as the Swiss cheese plant, Monstera is a popular houseplant with large, glossy, and perforated leaves. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water it moderately and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fiddle-leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata): The fiddle-leaf fig is a stunning plant with large, leathery leaves shaped like a violin or fiddle. It needs bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura): The prayer plant has beautifully patterned leaves that fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Ferns (Various species): Ferns are a diverse group of houseplants known for their lush, feathery foliage. They generally prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity. Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging, as many ferns are susceptible to root rot.
Calathea (Various species): Calathea plants are appreciated for their colorful, patterned leaves. They prefer medium to bright indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain higher humidity levels, as they are sensitive to dry air.
Ferns (Various species): You’ve listed ferns twice, but that’s okay! Ferns are lovely, and having more than one species can add variety to your indoor garden. Just remember to adjust their care based on the specific species you have.
It’s essential to learn the specific care needs of each plant to ensure they thrive in your home. Factors such as light, water, humidity, and temperature requirements may vary among these plants. Regularly check the moisture levels in the soil and observe the leaves for any signs of distress, such as wilting or browning, to gauge if they are getting the right care. Happy indoor gardening!