HOW TO
HARD TO KILL INDOOR PLANTS
Story by Diana Keeler
Most people like plants — but not all of us are talented at keeping them alive. Maybe you travel for work. Maybe you’re shuttling between households. And maybe, sometimes, you just forget to water the plants.
Luckily, lots of beautiful plants — including some Instagram superstars — know how to make do with less (attention, sunshine, water). These five plants are all low-maintenance, no-drama options — and just as beautiful as their finicky friends.
Epipremnum aureum
GOLDEN PATHOS
Not many plants win the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval — but according to the magazine, it “refuses to die,” despite a serial lack of water and/or light. It’s impervious to even your worst plant-care behavior — just be sure to put it out of reach of pets, as it can be toxic to cats and dogs.
Photo: @plant_mo
Aspidistra elatior
CAST IRON PLANT
For the clue, look to the name: This is an exceptionally hardy plant, which can handle a steady diet of low light and irregular waterings. It grows slowly — but give it time, and it can grow to two feet and live for years.
Photo: @brisbane_plant_sitting
Ficus lyrata
FIDDLE-LEAF FIG
In terms of the trendiest plants, the fiddle-leaf fig reigns supreme — and among its competition, it’s perhaps the easiest to care for. Just don’t overwater them - let the soil dry to an inch or two deep, then water sparingly. (Try watering every 10 days, and adjust as needed.)
Photo: @currypowder1991
Monstera deliciosa
SWISS CHEESE PLANT
The equally trendy Monstera deliciosa is nearly as easy to manage: Keep them on the same watering schedule — once every week or so, put them in the shower every month or so, and give them some sun, though they’ll be fine in low light as well.
Chlorophytum comosum
SPIDER PLANT
Spider plants don't need much water, and prefer indirect sun. Just watch that the soil doesn't get soggy, and you're good to enjooy its cheerful green-and-white leaves. One tip: If the leaves appear brown at the tips, it's likely the result of flouride from treated tap water—distilled or rain water can fix.
Photo: @7thfloorjungle
