When it’s gray and dreary outside in Indiana, what better time to be thankful for that sweet little planter of green sitting on my windowsill, just existing and making me happy? January 10th is National Houseplant Appreciation Day, and we will appreciate them!
If you haven’t adopted an aloe or a pothos yet, it might be time. They take up very little space, are less work than a pet or a child, and the satisfaction that comes from watching a new baby leaf unfurl is kind of indescribable. Not only do houseplants boost our moods and keep our spaces looking fresh and lively, but they also improve air quality and contribute to humidity — two great bonuses during this season of being cooped up. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or still waiting to take the plunge into plant parenthood, I encourage you to take advantage of this day to celebrate! There’s always room for one more plant baby.
Some house plants are more forgiving, and some are downright divas, so it doesn’t hurt to do a little research before you choose, especially if you’re new to the green scene. Also of note: many are toxic to pets and humans, so take that into consideration if you have curious roommates who might be tempted to nibble a leaf. The possibilities are truly endless, but the next four options were great sports about being guinea pigs when my indoor plant journey first began. Kind of like first children, they rolled with the punches as I settled in and did my best as a brand new plant mama.
ZZ Plant
These guys don’t need a ton of light, a ton of water, or a ton of attention. They are striking to look at and great air purifiers. They do just fine in rooms that don’t get much natural light and don’t get too upset if you go a little longer than you intended to between waterings. I’m currently trying to propagate a cutting from my larger plant so I can move one of them to an empty shelf in my bedroom, since it’s a bonus to grow a whole new plant from one you already have.
Snake Plant
This one is the ultimate beginner plant! Also known as a mother-in-law’s tongue, they are super low-maintenance – basically a giant succulent. Give them some indirect light, water them every week or two (maybe even less in the winter), and they’ll be happy! My snake plants are the second-longest-living of my whole collection, and by far the easiest. I have a friend who gives her snake plants mother-in-law-esque names, which I think is hilarious, and it makes the watering schedule much more entertaining.
Monstera
If you’re looking for a statement plant, consider this tropical, giant-leafed variety. Monstera have beautiful fenestrated leaves that love bright, indirect sunlight. They need well-drained soil because they don’t like to be overwatered. Pro tip: give the pot a quarter turn each time you water to ensure each leaf receives the right amount of light and to keep the plant growing evenly. If you’re a sucker for variegated leaves, check out the Thai Constellation variety. This beauty was on my wish list for months before I finally found one, and it’s currently holding the title of favorite house plant.
Pothos
With no shortage of variety options, a happy pothos will trail beautifully from the edge of a bookshelf or mantle. They also prefer bright, indirect light (about the amount of natural light needed to read a book) and weekly watering. If you choose a variegated variety, the leaves may revert to mostly green in lower light, so pay attention to where it gives you the best color mix.
Honorable mention – Aloe Vera
My very first plant purchase was a little baby aloe plant in a cute pot from a hardware store. We’ve been through a few re-pots, a few instances where I gave it way too much water and had to do damage control, and several location changes after I learned that direct sunlight can burn its leaves. It still sits in my dining room, very proud (probably) of how much I’ve learned since our early days together.
If you’re ready to make the leap, there are plenty of online shops that will ship plants to your door, and the big hardware stores usually have a good selection as well, but my favorite place to find my wish list plants is local shops! The customer service and knowledge of the plant people there are unbeatable, and they are great at helping select a good fit for that particular spot in your home.
Snakeroot Botanicals has locations in Broad Ripple and Fountain Square and has a great selection of beautiful plants. Root 31 is a gorgeous house-turned-plant-haven in Westfield that you will never be able to spend enough time wandering around in. Ginger Root Plant Co. is a new addition to Carmel’s Arts & Design district, with shelves of house plants and locally made items. Grounded Plant and Floral Co. is located downtown Indy on Capitol Avenue, and is FULL of plants and other home decor to brighten up any corner of your space.
If you’re ready to bundle up and venture out into the January slush, make a stop at any of these botanical destinations and chat with someone! They would be thrilled to celebrate Houseplant Appreciation Day with you and keep spreading happy, leafy joy as far as their vines can reach.
