From light requirements and watering schedules to soil and fertilizers, there’s a lot to keep track of when it comes to plants. As a first-time plant parent, it’s important to set yourself up for success. Ease into the world of indoor gardening by selecting low-maintenance houseplant options, like Pothos, Snake Plants, ZZs, and Peace Lilies. These are easy to care for – making them excellent houseplants for beginners!
Pothos
Genus: Epipremnum aureum
Family: Arum (Araceae)
This hardy evergreen is known for its climbing vines and tropical vibes. Pothos are naturally found in the forests of Australia, China, India, Indonesia, and Japan. Used to receiving only streaks of sun through the trees above them, they tolerate spaces with medium to low-light. For successful growth indoors, place your Pothos where it will receive indirect sunlight throughout the day. Avoid direct sun, as that will burn the leaves. The amount of sun it’s receiving will determine how often you should water. With brighter light, you can water when the top half of the soil is dry. In lower light, the natural photosynthesis process slows down; with less sun to process the water, it’s best to let them practically dry out completely before watering. (Check out our post on how photosynthesis works and how it affects watering schedules.)
There are many species within the Pothos genus. Some have dark green leaves or white and green variegation depending on the type. From bathroom counters to cubicle shelves, they add color and beauty to wherever they’re put. Here at The Secret Garden, we carry:
- Golden Queen
- Marble Queen
- Jade Green
- Cebu Blue
- Exotica (Satin Pothos)
- N-Joy
- Neon
Snake Plants
Genus: Dracaena Trifasciata
Family: Sansevieria
One of the best starter houseplants are Snake Plants. Their hardy, drought-tolerant characteristics make them easy to maintain. With origins in West Africa, they prefer warm climates and dry landscapes. They can be prone to root rot if over watered, therefore, a good rule of thumb is to let their soil dry out completely and then wait another week before watering. This method allows for the moisture to be completely absorbed by their thick, spear-shaped leaves. Capable of holding large amounts of water, snake plants also intake allergens and chemicals. By transforming these toxins into food, they’re able to release oxygen back into the air. A combination of natural beauty and air purification make these beneficial for any indoor space.
We currently have a variety of Sansevieria, including:
- ‘Laurentii’
- ‘Zeylanica’
- ‘Moonshine’
- ‘Trifasciata’
Depending on the type, the color of their foliage ranges from dark green to bright, neon-yellow. Since they don’t require much light, these plants can thrive in the corners of meeting rooms, bathrooms, and any buildings with minimal sun exposure. Come visit our shop’s Sansevieria Room to see all the beautiful options we offer!
ZZ
Genus: Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Family: Araceae (Ariod)
ZZ plants are natively found in East Africa. These semi-evergreen perennials are drought-tolerant and benefit from well-draining soil, preferring to completely dry out before the next watering. After checking the potting mix, keep an eye out for the leaves; if there’s any wilting or wrinkling, their foliage is demonstrating their need for water. With their ability to adapt and thrive in low-light conditions, ZZs have grown in popularity worldwide.
There are a range of types, such as:
- ‘Zenzi’
- ‘Akebono’
- ‘Supernova’
- ‘Raven’
- ‘Chameleon’
The soil, sun, and water requirements are the same for each one. While some may appear slightly different, they’re remarkably similar in every other way. With new growth, their leaves start as bright green and turn darker over time. During Sacramento’s hot summer months, avoid burns by keeping your plant out of direct sun. We have a team full of plant experts eager to help you be a successful ZZ owner. Our gift shop is full of ZZs looking for their forever home! Visit us today to see which ones we currently have in stock!
Peace Lilies
Genus: Spathiphyllum
Family: Araceae (Arum)
Caring for these low-maintenance perennials is straightforward. They favor moist soil, and will communicate when they are thirsty by their leaves drooping dramatically. Since they’re from the humid rainforests of Central America and Asia, Peace Lilies benefit from high humidity. Try adding a saucer filled with gravel rock and water to increase the humidity near your plant, and do your best to prevent them from drying out completely in between soaks. For anyone who’s unsure of how much water to give their already damp soil, utilize the bottom-watering method to allow them to take only what they need.
Aside from slight color variations, the main difference between the hybrids are their heights. Some have brighter green leaves and grow at different lengths. Ranging from a foot to over 6 feet tall, there are several popular kinds, like:
- ‘Power Petite’
- ‘Mauna Loa Supreme’
- ‘Sensation’
- ‘Mojo’
- ‘Golden Delicious’
- ‘Starlight’
All Peace Lilies are capable of filtering out various pollutants and allergens in the air. People with allergies can have peace of mind knowing their white flowers have sticky pollen that’s not constantly flying around the air. They can handle low-light environments, but thrive in spaces with bright filtered sunlight. Come see our selection of 2”, 4”, 6”, and 8” Peace Lilies! We’ll show you a wonderful selection of complimentary pots that would work great and guide you on general maintenance!
Visit Us Today!
At The Secret Garden, we’re a business full of wonderful plants for both indoors and out. If you’re still entering the world of plants, our exceptional team will guide you step-by-step. From plant selection and soil determination to education about light and water, we walk you through all the things you need to know to be a successful plant owner. For beginners, plants like Pothos, Sansevieria, ZZs, and Peace Lilies are the best options for longevity and comfortability. Beware that all plants are mildly toxic for dogs, cats, & children if ingested; keep out of reach. Wait no longer to get your first plant! Visit us today!
Thank you to Courtney Giles for her work on this post.
