List Post Archives - Page 3 of 4 - The Girl with a Shovel

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom

August 9, 2024February 8, 2019 by thegirlwithashovel

Hey y’all! So we all know that some of our home’s bedrooms (or our dorm room, or tiny apartment room…) can sometimes not have the best lighting for plants. Because of this, I came up with a list of 11 awesome low light plants for the bedroom! If your room doesn’t have much natural light, try out one of these!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #1: Cast Iron Plant – Aspidistra elatior

This plant is amazing for several different reasons! Not only does it do well in low light levels, but it can also tolerate a lot of neglect and is on my list of hard-to-kill houseplants! Seriously, this guy can take it all! You won’t regret having a Cast Iron Plant in your bedroom!

Buy a Cast Iron Plant!

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom Aspidistra

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #2: English Ivy – Hedera helix

There’s a reason why this plant is sold in so many garden centers! It does well in low light situations, as well as in cold basements and drafty hallways. It’s also one of those classic indoor plants that will never go out of style!

Buy an English Ivy!

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #3: Prayer Plant – Maranta leuconeura

This plant brings a splash of color into a dark bedroom! It is low-growing and can even be used in a hanging planter and its leaves will begin to cascade down the sides of the pot. This plant is a wonderful addition to any low light bedroom!

Buy a Prayer Plant!

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #4: Boston Fern – Nephrolepis exaltata

Boston ferns are one of the easiest ferns to care for. Not only do they enjoy low-light conditions, but they also prefer cooler temperatures. So this is a must-have for any dark and cold basement bedrooms (or any cool, low light location in the house!) Just make sure to mist it daily to keep the fronds from turning brown.

Buy a Boston Fern!

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #5: Guzmania Bromeliad – Guzmania lingulata

This bromeliad does great in low light bedrooms and is a relatively easy plant to care for. Make sure that it is lightly misted once per day in order to keep it healthy and to encourage the plant to bloom! Once Guzmania is done blooming, it will grow new plants to the side, while the central bromeliad dies. In this way, with the purchase of one plant, you can get many more bromeliads that will last you forever!

Buy a Guzmania Bromeliad!

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #6: Pothos – Epipremnum aureum

Pothos is one plant that I believe every beginner should own! It can tolerate a variety of light levels (including low light levels), and it is very tolerant of neglect. Pothos also looks great in a variety of planters and can be trained as either an upright, vine, a full and bushy plant, or a hanging vine. Make sure to check out my post on Pothos Vine Care!

Buy a Pothos!

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #7: Snake Plant – Sensevieria trifasciata

Snake plant is also one of my absolute favorite plants! It does well in low-light conditions, as well as can tolerate quite a bit of neglect. It is also a very popular plant for modern home design! Make sure to check out all of the different variations!

Buy a Snake Plant!

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #8: Peace Lily – Spathiphyllum wallisii

Peace lily is definitely a gorgeous plant for a bedroom! Even without the white flower bracts, just the leaves alone make for a beautiful foliage plant! And the best part?! It’s a low-light plant!

Buy a Peace Lily!

hard_to_kill_houseplants_peace_lily_spathiphyllum

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #9: ZZ Plant – Zamioculcas zamiifolia

This semi-succulent has been making a comeback in houseplant popularity! With its zany, arching branches, this little plant is sure to make a statement wherever it is placed! But don’t worry, this little guy is also extremely low maintenance!

Buy a ZZ plant!

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #10: Heartleaf Philodendron – Philodendron cordatum

Heartleaf philodendron needs less light than its larger-leafed brothers. This, along with its cute, heart-shaped leaves makes it perfect for a bedside table or hanging basket! It is also available in several different varieties to match your personal style!

Buy a Heartleaf Philodendron!

self-watering-pots-heartleaf-philodendron

Low Light Plants for the Bedroom #11: Bird’s Nest Fern – Asplenium nidus

This awesome fern does great in low-light situations, but it prefers to be a little warmer than the Boston fern. It also sheds less than other ferns due to its sword-shaped leaves. But make sure to mist this fern daily to avoid brown leaf tips!

Buy a Bird’s Nest Fern!

Well there you have it! I hope you have a fun time adding some greenery into your low light bedroom! Because every place could use a little more green!

Happy Digging!

Common Flowers that are Toxic to Pets

August 9, 2024May 1, 2018 by thegirlwithashovel

Hey y’all! So I know that everyone is looking for just the right gift for the Mom in their life, and being a Mom myself, I’d say you can never go wrong with a bouquet of flowers! There’s just something cheery about flowers that makes everyone smile. So go ahead and get your Mom, wife, or just someone special in your life (why not!) a gift of flowers! Just make sure that if they have pets, try to avoid some of these flowers. After all, you wouldn’t want to spend Mother’s Day, (or any other day) at the vet because your precious little ball of fur got his fill of the flowers too. So scroll down for the list of flowers to avoid, and check out this awesome post about safe flowers to use instead!

Flowers Toxic to Pets #1 – Bulbs

Heads up… most bulbs are toxic to pets. Especially the actual bulb part of the plant. In cut flowers, this includes hyacinths, iris, tulips, daffodils, amaryllis, lilies, and gladiolas. And because a picture is worth a thousand words, here are the main ones you should avoid in your bouquet…

#2 – Mums and Dahlias

I know that these are some of the most common flowers found in bouquets. But yes, they are indeed toxic to pets. And remember that these flowers can look quite different depending on the variety, so if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask the florist for proper identification! *Mums are short for chrysanthemums… florists will call them by both names…

#3 – Low Toxicity Flowers

These two flowers may not be deadly, but they are still worth avoiding if your pet likes to nibble on your plants. These are baby’s breath and carnations. I know, I know… Two more insanely common bouquet flowers…

#4 – Potted Plants

Though not technically cut flowers, I thought I should throw these two flowering plants in just to be safe. Some of the most common potted plants that are sold for Mother’s Day (and for several other holidays) are azaleas and gardenias. Though they are extremely beautiful, they are also toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach of curious pets, or should only be kept indoors (or outdoors, depending on your pet’s situation). An added tip, however, is that azaleas and gardenias are extremely difficult to keep as an indoor plant. For other options in plant-giving, check out my post on non-toxic houseplants for pets. The plants in this post are generally easier to keep alive and your pet-owner will thank you!

So that’s my list of cut flowers that are toxic to pets! Make sure to check out this helpful post that will tell you which flowers you should buy for pet-owners! It also includes a FREE Printout that you can use as a handy reminder when purchasing flowers! So enjoy this little freebie and please leave any further questions or comments below!

Happy Digging!

14 Easiest Succulents to Grow Indoors

August 9, 2024April 19, 2018 by thegirlwithashovel

Hey y’all! So here’s a post I’ve been wanting to write for a while. Mainly because succulent plants are so awesome, but can be tricky too! When I bought my first succulent, I definitely had to adjust my normal indoor-plant thinking. But once you get a few tricks down, then these little guys can be a breeze! Especially the succulents on this list. This list of the best indoor succulents to grow are both easy to keep alive and are the best succulents for beginners!

Basic Succulent Care

Real quick… if you are a beginner with succulents I wanted to point out a few tips on basic succulent care. First, make sure that you are using a pot with drainage holes. This is ESSENTIAL for succulent plants. Also, make sure that you are using a light, airy mix and a pot that isn’t too large for your little succulents.

Next, while most succulents love full sun, not all succulents are accustomed to hot, afternoon sunlight. The best way for your indoor plants is to start your succulents in bright, indirect light and gradually acclimate your new plant to more direct sunlight. Any discoloration is a sign that your plant is being stressed and either needs more water or it needs less direct sunlight.

For more information on how to care for succulents, check out my blog post on succulent care tips!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Easiest Succulents to Grow #1: Aloe – Aloe vera

This is a great place to start! Not only is the aloe vera plant very attractive, but it is also widely used for its medicinal properties. Just cut off a leaf/stem and rub the juices onto a burn or a wound (just be sure that you aren’t one of those few who are sensitive to it first).

To ensure a healthy aloe vera plant, make sure you allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Also try to give it at least a couple hours of direct sunlight each day. This plant can have sharp edges on its leaves, so make sure that it isn’t in a location where people might brush against it and get scraped. Only repot plant it once the roots are starting to push out of the pot. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll have a super easy, super useful, and super awesome little succulent! Get it here!

Aloe vera is the first on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #2: String of Pearls – Senecio rowleyanus

String of pearls is great for any beginner who loves hanging baskets. Used as a filler or as a main specimen, string of pearls looks almost unreal! Make sure that this little guy gets plenty of bright light, but don’t keep it in direct afternoon sun. It usually doesn’t need too much watering, but if it is in a warm climate and gets lots of bright light, then it may need a moderate amount of water. Just keep an eye on it and adjust accordingly. Get it here!

String of beads plant is the second on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #3: Paddle Pant – Kalanchoe tetraphylla

This succulent definitely makes a statement in any modern-style home! With its red-tinted leaves and geometric shape, this succulent looks great in many different styles of containers. Make sure that it is only watered once the soil has become dry on the top. Don’t expose it to direct, hot sunlight, but do give it plenty of bright, indirect light to keep the edges red. Get it here!

Paddle plant is the third on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #4: Jade Plant – Crassula ovata

Jade plant is one of my favorite succulents! I love that it can grow from a simple cutting up to the size of a small tree! Some tips to succeed with this plant is to not over-water it. Wait until the soil dries out completely before watering. But don’t wait until its leaves look dull or withered. This means you’ve waited for too long and most likely those leaves will eventually fall off. So find a happy medium, but err on the side of dry. Another nice thing about the jade plant is that because of its small root system, you won’t need to re-pot it that often. So sit back and enjoy the beauty of this large, but easy succulent! Get it here!

Jade is the fourth on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #5: Panda Plant – Kalanchoe tomentosa

This is another very cute succulent! Named for its fuzzy leaves, the panda plant can flower, but it is very rare indoors. So don’t count on it flowering, but instead enjoy the beautiful shape and tinted edges of this easy-to-grow succulent. Make sure that it dries out between watering and that it receives lots of bright, indirect sunlight. It can also deal with a few hours of direct sunlight in the morning, but keep it away from the strong afternoon sun. Also, this plant doesn’t grow well in cold drafts. Get it here!

Panda plant is the fifth on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #6 Burro’s Tail – Sedum morganianum

Here’s another great succulent to put into a hanging basket. Burro’s tail has thick rows of cascading leaves that can grow up to 2-3 feet long! However, place this little guy somewhere it won’t be disturbed because the leaves will fall off with the slightest touch. If you have young kids, I wouldn’t suggest this one for you. Go with the String of Pearls instead. But Burro’s Tail is pretty low-maintenance, especially during the wintertime when the plant enters dormancy and won’t need much watering at all. And this succulent can do well with bright to medium sun and can even be brought outdoors during the summer as long as it is carefully acclimated. Get it here!

Burro's Tail is the sixth succulent on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #7: Lithops

Lithops have recently returned in popularity and it’s no surprise why! They are super easy to grow indoors, are low-growing and come in a wide variety of colors and designs. They can also bloom if given enough sunlight. These plants do well in poor soils, but need to stay well-drained and dislike too much water. Lithops also go through a dormant period in the winter where they will need little to no watering at all (depending on your climate). So enjoy these pretty, unique succulents! Get it here!

Lithops is the seventh succulent on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #8: Pincushion Cactus – Mammillaria

Pincushion Cactus is a very pretty cactus that got its name from its very sharp thorns! This guy needs plenty of space as each needle has a hooked end that can be hard to get out of the skin. So once again, I wouldn’t suggest this plant for people with young children in the home. Pincushion Cactus is fairly easy to maintain, however. It just requires a lot of sunlight (if you have a bright south-facing window, that would be best). The soil also needs to dry out before its next watering. Pincushion Cactus will also need a period of no watering (during the wintertime) to allow it to go into dormancy. This is needed if you want it to produce those gorgeous pink flowers! Get it here!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #9: Snake Plant – Sansevieria trifasciata

This is another of my favorite indoor succulents as it’s one of the few thick, fleshy-leaved plants that does well in low light conditions. It is also on my list of Top 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants. And… it is also one of the large succulents that is also easy to grow! With its bright, vertical lines, Snake Plant (also called mother-in-law’s tongue) does well in any room. Make sure to let the soil dry out between watering and plant in a well-draining soil. If left too wet, it may start to rot at the base. If given higher amounts of indirect lights, it is more likely to keep its colorful markings. Prune out any damaged leaves to keep it looking fresh and healthy, but know that once the tip has been clipped, it will no longer grow in height. Get it here!

Snake Plant is number nine on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #10: Zebra Cactus – Haworthia fasciata

Zebra Cactus is another of my favorite succulents because it is so easy to grow! Seriously, my 1-year-old got a hold of several of my succulents, killing several (sad day!), but being ripped out of its soil and tossed around the living room didn’t even seem to phase this guy! It has definitely earned its spot here on my list of easiest to grow succulents. I’ve heard some people say that the tips are sharp, but they aren’t too sharp in my opinion. It also helps that this succulent stays small, so there won’t be any worries of it outgrowing its space. Just re-pot every year or two with fresh, well-draining soil to give it needed nutrients. This cactus can also do well in a shallow pot, as its roots stay in the top portion of the soil. Make sure that your Zebra Cactus stays in bright, but indirect sunlight. Hot, direct sunlight can burn the leaves.For more care information, check out my post, Zebra Plant Succulent Care! Or you can purchase one here!

Haworthia is number ten on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #11: Air Plants – Tillandsia

Air plants have recently gained more popularity due to the fact that they don’t require any soil to grow. However, they do need to be watered and given proper attention or they will die. But once you get a few simple tricks down, all of your air plants will thrive! So first, make sure that you water it correctly. This consists of lightly misting it once or twice a week (depending on how much light it is getting), and soaking it once a week for several hours. Then make sure that it completely dries out! This is one of my beginner mistakes with this plant. I bought one that was already glued into a glass orb and when it came time to dry it out, it was extremely difficult. This was because it couldn’t get enough airflow to it to allow it to dry out completely. So make sure that it soaks it all up, but then has plenty of time to completely dry out! For more care information, check out my post on Air Plant Care, or my post on How to Water Air Plants! Or you can purchase one here!

Air plants are number eleven on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #12: Hens and Chicks

Next, is Hens and Chicks. Both Sempervivum and Echeveria species are often called Hens and Chicks because they not only look very similar, but they also both create small offshoots, or what is referred to as the ‘chicks’ part of the plant. These small chicks can be cut off and re-potted for more plants. Hens and Chicks does best in bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate some light shade. Just make sure that it is in well-draining potting soil and that it dries out a bit between watering. They will also need very little water in the winter months as they enter a dormancy period. And also make sure to keep water off the leaves while watering, as it can cause them to be permanently marked. Get it here!

Hen and chicks are number twelve on my list of the easiest succulents to grow indoors!

Easiest Succulents to Grow #13: Ponytail Palm

Ponytail palm is another succulent that is extremely forgiving as long as you don’t overwater it. Keep it in soil that is well-draining and this amazing semi-succulent will grow beautiful curly leaves that will give you a bouncy, light appearance. My last bit of advice for this plant is that cats seem to love chewing on this plant’s leaves. So if you have a feline friend, then I would suggest you choose a different one of these easy succulents and leave the ponytail palm to a pet-free zone.

Easiest Succulents to Grow #14: Christmas Cactus

Another succulent that is incredibly easy to care for is the Christmas cactus! Now I’m grouping in the Thanksgiving cactus together with these tropical cacti known as holiday cacti. These cacti actually do best in partial shade and higher humidity levels than the typical succulent. These, combined with the beautiful flowers that come in the winter, this cactus is not one to miss! For more information on how to care for christmas cactus, check out this post on christmas cactus care!

So there’s my list of 14 Easiest Succulents to Grow Indoors! I hope you found the tips helpful! Make sure to check out my other post on Top 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants that includes the easiest non-succulent type plants to grow indoors as well. I hope you all have success growing some of these awesome succulents and feel free to leave any additional tips or questions below!

Happy Digging!

15 Fire Resistant Perennials

August 9, 2024November 9, 2017 by thegirlwithashovel

Looking at making your yard more fire-safe? Check out my previous post on creating a fire-safe yard, and check out this awesome list of fire-resistant perennial plants!

So what makes a plant fire-resistant? Mainly, plants are fire-resistant if they are free of sap or resin that can easily catch fire, as well as they have more water stored in their leaves, making them harder to burn. There are a surprising number of fire-resistant plants available for the landscape, giving you plenty of options for your specific style. However, remember that no plant is fire-proof and can still catch fire depending on fire intensity and weather patterns. But, planting fire-resistant plants will give your home an added measure of protection and might just buy you some needed time.*

Here’s the list!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

#1: Coneflower – Echinacea purpurea

Coneflower is not only fire-resistant, but it is also one of my favorites to see in the landscape! Bright purple, pink, and white flowers bloom on long stems that are perfect for cut flower arrangements. They are also low-water and like full sun. Coneflower also attracts butterflies, and is deer resistant. What an awesome plant! (Hardiness zones 3-8)

Get your coneflower here!

#2: Blanket Flower – Gaillardia var.

Blanket flower reminds me of a Native American blanket spread out along the yard. How pretty! Beautiful blooms range in combinations of red, orange, yellow, and gold will fill your space from early summer to early fall. These large blooms attract butterflies and do well as cut flowers on the taller varieties. Blanket flower prefers full sun, but is also low-water and does well in drought conditions. (Hardiness zones 3-9)

Find it here!

#3: Plantain Lily – Hosta spp.

Plantain Lily, also known as Hostas, do well in the shade garden. Ranging in leaf color from blue-green to silver, these hardy perennials are known for their gorgeous foliage. Their flowers are also pretty, but often overshadowed by the patterned leaves. In colder climates hostas will die back in the wintertime, but will send up new shoots in the spring! Just make sure that when new plants are getting established that they stay moist, but not wet. It is easy for hostas to get crown rot if its base gets too much water. (Hardiness zones 3-9)

Get some amazing hostas here!

#4: Trumpet Vine – Campsis radicans

Trumpet vine is a beautiful vining plant that produces orange and red flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. While some people would tell you to never plant trumpet vine due to its tendency to become invasive, it can be controlled if given the time necessary. Regular and heavy pruning, as well as proper placement and care for suckers will keep this fast growing vine under control. Make sure to have a sturdy support, as well as don’t place it near any buildings or have it climb up trees to avoid damage. All in all, this is a very beautiful, fast-growing vine, but needs to only be planted by those who have the time and dedication to keep it under control. (Hardiness zones 4-9)

Find it here!

#5: Columbine – Aquilegia spp.

Columbine is also one of my favorite plants! Flowers come in any color of the rainbow and will bloom all summer long! Plant columbine in partial shade and it will be extremely low maintenance and drought tolerant. These plants are short-lived, but will readily re-seed. New plants will take 2-3 years to flower, but will still produce the unique, clover-shaped leaves of mature plants. In addition to being fire-resistant, these plants are also deer resistant, as well as attract butterflies and hummingbirds. What an awesome plant! (Hardiness zones 3-9)

Find it here!

#6: Lavender – Lavandula spp.

This well-known plant will be very resistant to flames as long as it is kept moist. Lavender is extremely popular due to its natural scent, beneficial oils, and pretty purple or white blooms. What some people might not know, however, is that Lavender is also fairly drought tolerant and attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and is deer resistant. No wonder so many people have this in their yards! (Hardiness zones 4-8)

Find it here!

#7: Coreopsis – Coreopsis spp.

Coreopsis’ bright yellow flowers are hard to miss! A great self-seeder, most plants are perennials, though they do have some annual varieties available. Once established, these little plants are very drought tolerant. They can also tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Deadheading spent flowers can prolong bloom time, but if left on, coreopsis seeds are a great source of food for birds during the wintertime! (Hardiness zones 4-9)

Find it here!

#8: Delphinium – Delphinium spp.

Delphinium is often thought of as a somewhat difficult plant to care for. However, with proper care, anyone with the right conditions can grow these amazing stalks of color. Just make sure that your delphinium gets plenty of morning sun, but has some shade in the afternoon, especially in hot climates. Also, make sure that this little guy stays moist. Delphinium doesn’t like to dry out. Varieties include flowers ranging from the classic blue to red, white, and lavender. Make sure that any tall flower stalks are properly staked or else they can easily break off. (Hardiness zones 3-7)

Find it here!

#9: Yarrow – Achillea spp.

This low-maintenance plant is perfect for the fire-resistant yard! With blooms in red, yellow, orange, purple, or white, anyone can find the perfect spot for these drought-tolerant plants. Just make sure to provide full sun and well-draining soil. Deadheading throughout the summer will ensure nearly constant blooms and add lots of color to your yard. (Hardiness zones 3-9)

Check out this yellow variety!

#10: Sage – Salvia spp.

This multi-use plant is great for not only the outdoors, but can also be dried and used in the kitchen! Sage leaves are what is used for the popular seasoning, but plants will also produce white, purple, pink, or blue flowers in late spring. This aromatic plant will also attract butterflies and birds into your garden! So consider this as a great fire-resistant plant that will also give you a great harvest. (Hardiness zones 5-9)

Find it here!

#11: Penstemon – Penstemon spp.

Penstemons are a great drought-tolerant, low-maintenance plant! With stunning purple, pink, blue, white, yellow, or red flower spikes, this plant is sure to draw attention as a specimen plant, or provide a colorful background when planted in groups. Plant in full sun and once established, these tough perennials will only need infrequent, deep watering. These tall flowers will also attract plenty of bees and hummingbirds to your yard. (Hardiness zones 3-8)

Find it here!

#12: Yucca – Yucca spp.

Yuccas are one of the most common desert plants grown in the landscape. Their sword-like leaves come in many shades of greens and blues and can even be variegated with yellow and white. Yuccas produce large white flowers in the late summer and will grow in very poor soil conditions. Just make sure to not overwater as this plant doesn’t like to stay wet. This low-maintenance, drought-resistant plant is perfect for the fire-resistant yard! (Hardiness zones 4-11)

Find it here!

#13: Honeysuckle – Lonicera spp.

Honeysuckle vines are among the same classification as trumpet vine in the fact that they can also become invasive if not properly cared for. Make sure to keep this vine (or groundcover) well contained in a specific area. Then make sure to do some heavy pruning every fall. Honeysuckle also does well in full sun to partial shade, but if the top is allowed to grow too big, it can overshadow the lower vines, causing them to lose some of their leaves and become more of a woody plant. To avoid this, make sure that you thin out the top branches to allow some light to reach the lower portion of the plant. Once this fast grower is tamed, however, you can sit back and enjoy this fragrant beauty! (Hardiness zones 4-9)

Find it here!

#14: Evening Primrose – Oenothera spp.

There are many different reasons to grow this native flower in your yard. Not only is it fire-resistant, but Evening Primrose is also grown for its medicinal and culinary use. Soft pink, yellow, and white blooms open every evening and stay open through the night. They grow well from seed and thrive in full sun to partial shade. This hardy annual (or perennial depending on your climate and variety) is also drought-tolerant once established and the seeds are also edible for human consumption as well as a popular attraction for birds. (Hardiness zones 3-11)

Get some seed here!

#15: Daylily – Hemerocallis spp.

Daylilies are another of my favorite plants! These little guys have thick, grass-like leaves that soften any border in the landscape. Their blooms rise above the plant and show off large, star-shaped flowers that come in thousands of different colors and varieties. Daylilies do well in full sun to partial shade and need only a moderate amount of water. Once established they need very little care besides thinning them out every several years. (Hardiness zones 3 to 9)

For a colorful collection, get it here!

There’s my list of fire-resistant plants! There are many more than these, I just went with some of the more common plants that are easily found in the local garden center. Just remember that no plant is fire-proof, but that plants listed as fire-resistant will be much harder to get a flame going than other common landscape plants. And for tips on how to create a fire-resistant yard, check out my post here!

Happy digging!

*Note: This is in no way a means of providing insurance against fire. All content is the author’s opinion and is thereby not liable for any damages to any person or property, whether brought about by fire or any other causes.*

10 More Hard to Kill Houseplants!

August 9, 2024October 13, 2017 by thegirlwithashovel

For those of you who missed my original post, 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants , there was a lot of interest in these easy, low maintenance plants. So I decided, why not give everyone a few more to choose from?! Here’s a list of some of the less common indoor plants that are still easy, low maintenance, and hard to kill houseplants!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

#1: Chinese Evergreen – Aglaonema

Starting off with one of the more vibrant plants, this low maintenance thriller also does well in low light conditions. Keep away from direct sunlight and let it dry out a little (not too much) in between waterings. Also, keep away from drafts, as this can cause the leaves to brown. Other than that, this plant is easy to care for, very forgiving, and cut leaves will propagate easily in water, leaving you with plenty of plants for your indoor space!

#2: Peperomia – Peperomia

Also called the Radiator plant, Peperomia is definitely on the easy to grow list. These plants prefer medium to brighter sunlight, but can also do well in low light conditions. This will produce a leggier (less bushy) plant and may reduce the vibrant colors in some variegated varieties, but they will tolerate it. They also store water in their fleshy leaves, so make sure to let it dry out a little between watering, as this plant can also handle a bit of neglectful care.

#3: Ponytail Palm – Beaucarnea recurvata

Ponytail palm is one of my favorite indoor plants! I just love the little tuft of leaves sprouting out the top that gives this little guy a very unique and soft look. Another name for this plant is Elephant’s foot, due to the large bulge at the base of the trunk. These plants are actually part of the succulent family, so make sure that the soil remains dry between waterings. Too much water and there can be some serious root damage. Ponytail palms also like bright light, but can do well without it during the winter months as long as it gets plenty of sun in the summer. In warmer climates it can actually be moved outdoors during the warmer months.

#4: Wandering Jew – Tradescantia pallida

Wandering Jew, often confused with Purple Heart, has deep purple and silver leaves and is a somewhat less common indoor vine (as the more common Pothos vine has been bigger in popularity lately). Don’t rule this one out, however, as it still looks and does great in the indoors! To keep Wandering Jew happy, give it bright light in the mornings, but avoid intense afternoon sunlight. It can also do well in low light conditions, but will become more leggy (less leaves on longer vines). Let it dry out a little between watering and make sure the base of the plant doesn’t stay wet as it will rot if too moist. Also pinch back the vines several times a year in order to get a more bushy vine.

#5: Rubber Plant – Ficus elastica

This ficus is one of the easiest of its relatives to grow! Keep it in bright but indirect sunlight and let it dry out between watering. Rubber plants come in a variety of sizes and can be either a small counter-top plant, or as big as a large tree. Also check out the variegated rubber plant for something pleasantly different for your space!

#6: Ti Plant – Cordyline terminalis

Ti plant is another very colorful indoor plant with varieties in a mix of purples, pinks, creams, and greens. Very slow growing, this low maintenance plant does well in bright light and can handle getting a bit dry. Just watch for the leaves getting brown on the edges. This is a sign that it’s been too dry, so step up the watering just a notch. This plant also does well with humidity, so it is the perfect plant for a bright shower area!

#7: Jade Plant – Crassula ovata

Though a bit more water-loving than its succulent cousins, the jade plant is still an easy-to-care-for plant! Make sure that it gets a medium amount of sunlight and let the soil get slightly dry between watering and don’t let the leaves get wet. Jade plants will like a bit more water during the summer time and a little less during the winter. Keep the same water to sunlight hours ratio for a good estimate of watering needs. Also, if the leaves are starting to brown and fall off, it means that your little guy needs a bit more water. Just make sure that it never stays wet. Like all succulents, this will make your jade plant start to rot.

#8: Dumbcane – Dieffenbachia

Dumbcane is a common houseplant to find in local plant centers. Be warned, however, that ingestion of this plant can cause swelling of the throat and tongue, and if ingested in large amounts, can cause suffocation. So keep away from children and animals that would be curious to give this plant a taste. The leaves are a beautiful, spotted green and white, but will turn yellow if it is getting too much sun. Keep it in moderate to bright indirect light. Also, be careful to not overwater this little guy. Let it dry out just a touch between watering. Also, as the plant grows upward, the lower leaves will turn brown and drop. This is normal, just keep doing what you’re doing and trim off any unsightly lower leaves.

#9: Hoya Plant – Hoya

There are several different types of Hoya, differing in leaf shape and colors from green to cream and pink! All Hoyas enjoy medium to bright light, but don’t do well in direct sunlight. They also do well with a bit of neglect as they like to dry out a bit before watering. Just make sure that they don’t receive too much water! Keep in smaller pots, as these guys like to get a bit root bound and it can also stimulate flowering.

#10: Umbrella Tree – Schefflera

Like several of the other plants in this list, Umbrella Tree, often called Schefflera, does best in bright, but indirect light. It also does not like to be overwatered. If your leaves are turning yellow and falling off, then it is either getting too much direct sunlight, or it is getting too much water. Make sure that all of these plants are in a well-draining pot that will allow your plant to dry out slightly between watering. For Schefflera plant care tips, check out this post by The Spruce, the Schefflera Plant Profile!

That’s it for my list of 10 More Hard to Kill Houseplants! Some of these can be found at local garden centers, but others may need to be specially ordered. And if you haven’t yet seen my original list of Top 10 Hard to Kill Houseplants, check it out here! Good luck, and feel free to comment below with any additional tips or questions!

Happy digging!

12 Best Plants for the Shade

August 9, 2024September 15, 2017 by thegirlwithashovel

One big problem that I see within landscapes is that dreaded shade circle. Usually people don’t plan for shady areas and end up planting the same grass, shrubs, or annuals in the shady and sunny regions of their yard. Most often, this leaves an area that is full and thriving in one area, then looks like it is dying five feet over. But here is a way to fix it! Remember to plant shade areas with shade-loving plants! What a concept! Don’t know what to plant? Here is a list of some of the more common plants for the shade…

*Note: If you really have no way around re-planting, but are left with dying plants, another alternative is if it is a tree or other plant that is causing the shade, try thinning out the shade. This is done via selective pruning. It is best to hire an arborist to prune large trees, but can also be done yourself if you have the proper experience and safety gear.*

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Plants for the Shade #1: False Goat’s Beard – Astilbe

Found in most nurseries as simply Astilbe, this perennial is good for zones 3-9. There are many different varieties available that range from 6 inches to 5 feet in height. They are also available in white, red, pink, purple, and blue varieties. Astilbe does well in partial shade to full shade (though it won’t flower quite as much in full shade). It needs protection from hot afternoon sun as this can cause the leaves to burn. Astilbe also does well in pots that are left in shady areas. Just remember to keep these plants a bit moist as they don’t like to dry out!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #2: Hostas – Hosta

Hostas are a very common shade plant. And it’s clear to see why! There are thousands of different varieties of this plant, each one showing off its different patterns and shades of green, yellow, and white leaves. Hostas will also flower, but they are normally planted for their foliage, not their flowers. These plants vary in how much sun they require (depending on the variety), but all hostas will either like partial shade or full shade. Deer do like to much on these plants, though, so make sure to plant deer-resistant plants surrounding your hostas if you are in an area that has a lot of deer.

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #3: Coral Bells – Heuchera

This is another plant that has very attractive foliage! Coral bells is a hardy perennial (down to zone 3!) and leaves come in colors ranging from red, orange, and yellow to dark green, purple, and near black! These plants will flower late spring to early summer and spent booms can be removed to show off the colorful leaves. Coral bells also does well in pots and are best in part shade to full shade conditions. Make sure to keep them slightly moist (but not drowning!) and enjoy these colorful plants all year long!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #4: Sweet Woodruff – Galium odoratum

Sweet Woodruff was originally grown for its sweet, fresh fragrance as well as its medicinal and edible uses. Hardy from zones 4-9, this pretty perennial loves the shade and will bloom from late spring to mid- summer. Reaching a height of only 1 foot, this is a great groundcover for large areas. It is also deer resistant. Be careful, though, as Sweet Woodruff can become invasive. They spread through underground rhizomes, so make sure that the area has a border and that any plants outside of the area is removed every spring. (Photo by Jean Gaffard)

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #5: Japanese Forest Grass – Hakonechloa macra

This is one of my favorite grasses! This perennial grass not only does well in partially shaded borders and planters, but also does well in partially shaded pots. It has green foliage (and a variety with cream colored leaf margins!) and it will turn red in the fall as it prepares to go dormant. Japanese Forest Grass will also bloom, but flowers are small and inconspicuous. This grass is also deer resistant and slow-growing, making it a great landscape plant! (Photo by Real Jardin Botanico de Madrid)

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #6: Columbine – Aquilegia

Columbine plants are a great option for areas with partial shade. These plants can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but need partial shade in warmer regions. This native plant has many different varieties to choose from. So many in fact, that you can find columbine in any color you want! Columbine do have short lives (around 3-4 years), but they will re-seed easily and the new seedlings will produce flowers starting in their second year. There are also drought-tolerant varieties available, making it great for anyone looking to cut back on their water bill!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #7: Ferns

Ferns are great for shady spaces! They not only do well in the shade garden, but also thrive in indoor and outdoor pots, making them great for any area that doesn’t receive much sunlight. There are many different types of ferns available, so choose one that is the right size and has the upright or hanging form that you like. Depending on your climate, some ferns may die back in the winter, whereas some ferns will actually be evergreen! And don’t worry too much about your gardening experience… ferns are some of the easiest plants to grow!

Check out this Japanese Painted Fern!

Plants for the Shade #8: Bleeding Heart – Lamprocapnos spectabilis

This shade-loving perennial is also one of the easiest perennials to grow! Foliage and flowers emerge in early spring and plants will thrive in cool, shady locations. After blooming and with the hot summer temperatures, Bleeding Heart will have an early fall and the leaves will turn yellow and die back. These can be trimmed back in preparation for the next spring’s pink and white show!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #9: Lenten Rose – Helleborus orientalis

Lenten Rose is one of the most popular shade plants. With flowers available in white, green, red, pink, purple, and even a near black, this plant has a lot of colors to choose from! Lenten Rose can grow in zones 3-9 but will be evergreen in any zone above 5. These late-winter to early-spring blooms are also deer and rabbit resistant, which makes them great for forested regions. They also love the shade and once established, can even tolerate dry conditions. Overall, they are an easy-to-care-for perennial that will make you want to keep planting more!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #10: Caladium – Caladium

Also known as Elephant ear, Caladium has very showy leaves that range in colors of greens, reds, whites, pinks, and purples. This plant prefers partial shade and is only a perennial down to zone 9. However, in colder climates, the tubers can be dug up in the fall to be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. Caladiums can also be grown in pots for easily placing indoors during the winter. Though Caladiums require a bit more care, their bright, colorful leaves are definitely worth the extra effort!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #11: Hydrangea – Hydrangea spp.

Hydrangeas are an ever-popular plant and it’s no question why! These guys do great in partial shade and there are even some varieties that are more tolerant to full shade. Their great, big bundles of blooms are either white, green, or the famous blue (in acidic soil) and pink (in alkaline soil). There are also hydrangeas that do well from zones 3-9, thus making it the perfect option for many people in various climates. Just make sure that they receive a bit of attention during the winter to ensure their safety!

Find it here!

Plants for the Shade #12: Mondo Grass – Ophiopogon japonicus

Mondo grass is also very popular in the landscape. With both green and black varieties, Mondo grass can be grown in borders, planters, pots, or even as a lawn! It can tolerate full sun, but will have a darker color in partial shade. This is perfect for areas that are a mix of sun and shade. This perennial grow only 6 to 10 inches tall, making it perfect for a low border, or to add an additional layer to planting beds! (Photo by brewbooks)

Find it here!

There’s my list of 12 plants for the shade! There are many more perennial plants that can tolerate the shade, but I tried to keep it to plants that are more common and readily available at any local nursery. And if you live in warmer zones, or are okay with an annual, check out my list of 14 Coleus Varieties for the Shade! Then feel free to comment about any of these plants, as well as any other plants that you have found to be successful in your own shade garden!

Happy digging!

10 Quick Tips to Keep your Indoor Plants Alive

August 9, 2024August 28, 2017 by thegirlwithashovel

Do you struggle to keep your indoor plants alive? Believe me, I’ve had my fair share of plants dying. But not anymore! It’s very difficult to know exactly what to do and how to keep indoor plants alive. Especially when you are in an apartment or home that is limited in light or in other favorable conditions. So here are 10 tips that I’ve studied and learned through the years that will help you to keep your plants green and healthy!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Tip #1: Choose Plants Wisely

When looking for interior plants, don’t just go to the store and pick one out that you like. First, think of where you are going to put it. Do you have a lot of space, or a little? Check out my posts for small interior plants and large interior plants. Also, consider if that space gets a lot of direct sunlight, a medium amount of direct sunlight, or hardly any sunlight at all. Here’s a post for plants that do well with low light conditions. Then, consider any interesting aspects of that spot. Does it get humid (placed in a bathroom for example), or is it near a door where there will be winter chills and summer heat? Try to consider all of these things, then decide which plants would fit that area. Then from that list, choose a plant that you like!

Tip #2: Know what you have Growing

Knowing what you have growing is similar to tip #1, but sometimes we can suddenly find ourselves with a mystery plant. Like when we’re given those beautiful plant baskets, but nothing is labelled! Well, my advice is to get to know what plants you have. Try Google, Pinterest, Facebook, or even just asking friends and neighbors. You can also check out my post on the top sites for indoor plant identification. It is important to know what you have growing in order to know how to best care for it.

Tip #3: Well-Draining is the Best!

Do you know why almost every plant says that it needs well-draining soil? It’s because unless you are growing a swamp plant, you will need good drainage. This goes for well-draining soil, as well as choosing a pot with good drainage. You’re looking for something that will be able to be moist for a day or two, but then dries out. This ensures that the plant doesn’t stay too wet for too long. For succulents and cacti, this means go ahead and grab some succulent and cactus potting soil. You won’t regret it!

Tip #4: Use the Right Lighting

Whether you have a plant that needs a lot of light, or hardly any light, make sure that you are following its requirements. If a low-light plant is placed in too much direct sunlight, it can kill it! And the same goes for high-light plants that are placed in low-light conditions. One way around this, though, is if you want to put a high-light plant in a low-light area, buy two of the same plant. Then you can place one in the low-light area and one in a high-light area and switch them every two weeks. This will ensure that they both will eventually get some time with the light conditions that they need.

Tip #5: Don’t Overwater!

Giving a plant too much water is one of the fastest ways to kill it. And how do you know? Stick your finger in the soil. If it feels moist, then don’t water it! Some plants like to stay a little moist, so once again, know what you’re growing. However, most indoor plants can’t survive for long being too wet. So, if you’re one of those people who water their plants to death, either try to tone it down, or only go with plants that love the water. For extra tips, check out my post on how to water your houseplant.

Tip #6: Set a Watering Schedule

This is a must-do for people living in our busy world today. Without a schedule, some days I would forget how long it had been since I had last watered. Then I would end up either over-watering, or under-watering my poor little guys. So I’ve found that it’s best to figure out about how often your plant needs water, then set a watering schedule. This can either be a Monday, Thursday, Saturday type schedule on your day planner, or maybe even a once-a-week reminder on your phone. Do what works best for you, then stay on schedule!

Tip #7: Watch the Drafts!

There are many different ways that plants can be in drafts of either warm or cold air. They can come from doors, windows, air conditioners, heaters, or even frequently used fans. Some plants can do well with warmer drafts in the winter, but the majority of indoor plants would rather be kept at a consistent temperature. So watch out for cold windowsills and drafty doorways if you want to keep your plants happy!

Tip #8: Remember to Transplant

People often buy a houseplant thinking that it will stay the same size as when they bought it. However, this is hardly the case. Most plants are sold while still young. Then they grow to their mature size in your home. So if your plant starts looking a little too big for its pot, it is time to transplant it. Moving it to a bigger pot will give it more room to spread its roots and will give it a burst of fresh growth.

Tip #9: Fertilize

Having a plant in the same soil for too long can cause it to use up a lot of the nutrients within that soil. That is why it is important to occasionally add a bit of fertilizer to give it the nutrients that it needs to keep on going. Just make sure to use an appropriate fertilizer for your plant and to apply at the recommended doses. Too much fertilizer can also quickly kill any plant. This is the fertilizer I personally use and love!

Tip #10: Try Easy Plants First

If you’re new to interior plants, or just haven’t had much luck with them in the past, then try out my list of hard-to-kill houseplants. Once you have a few of these successfully growing, then you can slowly try out more and more difficult plants. Remember, not all green thumbs are born that way. It can take years of knowledge and hands-on experience to come to understand what each plant needs. So do yourself a favor and buy one of these easy indoor plants first before you try to tackle the plant Olympics!

I hope that these tips will help you to grow beautiful interior plants! Feel free to comment with any further advice and/or stories of your own successes and not-so-successes! We’ve all had good and bad times with our plants and remember… a little knowledge about our plants can go a long way!

Happy Digging!

Top 10 Fragrant Houseplants

August 9, 2024August 26, 2017 by thegirlwithashovel

Some people want houseplants for the added green, some people want them for their air purifying qualities. And some people just like the look of them. But today we’re going to focus on those people who love the smell of their houseplants! Here’s a list of the top 10 fragrant houseplants, along with a few tips on how to keep them alive!

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Fragrant Houseplant #1: Lavender – Lavandula

Probably one of the easier fragrant plants to grow, lavender has many different beneficial properties. Not only is the scent soothing to aid in falling asleep, but it is also a natural bug repellent! Just make sure that it gets adequate sunlight and moderate water. For info on how to care for this plant, check out my post, Indoor Lavender Plant Care!

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #2: Roses – Rosa

Roses come in all shapes and sizes. When choosing and indoor rose, choose a smaller variety so that it won’t try to take over the entire room! Also, if space is limited, consider purchasing a climbing rose and planting it against a trellis just outside of your window. This will allow you to crack open your window at night for some cool air, as well as the lovely smell of roses.

Check out this miniature fragrant rose here!

Fragrant Houseplant #3: Lemon Balm – Melissa officinalis

This is a wonderfully fragrant plant that, like lavender, also has many different beneficial properties. It can also tolerate less light conditions, however it does like consistent waterings. Don’t let it sit in water, but do try to keep it a bit more moist.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #4: Gardenia – Gardenia jasminoides

Gardenias smell amazing, but are one of the harder houseplants to keep alive indoors. Generally, they like to be in warm, sunny locations. They also like to be in well-drained soil that is given the chance to dry out just a touch between waterings, but also make sure to keep the leaves dry when watering. Gardenias also like humidity, so either place in a sunny bathroom, or keep it humid with a tray of pebbles and water nearby (this will increase the nearby relative humidity). This can also be planted outside near a window to draw the scent inside, or planted outside and the flowers used in a floral bouquet that will bring the wonderful smell indoors!

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #5: Orchid – Orchidaceae

One of our tropical fragrances, the smell of orchids have become quite popular lately. They are also wonderfully compact plants, and they can usually be encouraged to re-bloom for twice the amount of sweet-smelling flowers each year. Just make sure that it gets enough sunlight and that it stays warm.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #6: Citrus Plants – Rutaceae

All citrus plants have that distinct, tangy scent that freshens up any indoor space. There are also quite a few dwarf varieties that are becoming available to those who want anything from lemons, to tangerines, to grapefruit in their home!

Check out this indoor orange tree!

Fragrant Houseplant #7: Honeysuckle – Lonicera

When looking for an indoor honeysuckle, make sure to purchase a dwarf variety, or soon it will be taking up way too much space. Just like the roses, this can also be a good option to grow just outside the window and allowed to reach its full size outdoors where the scent can flow in at night.

Find dwarf seeds here, or an outdoor plant here!

Fragrant Houseplant #8: Valerian – Valeriana officinalis

This was a new plant to me and I’ve loved reading up on it! Valerian has many different benefits, ranging from its sleep-inducing vanilla scented flowers to its roots that can be used as a mild sedative. This is a very good plant to have around! It does require a bit more attention indoors, however, as it needs at least 6 hours of sunlight each day and also needs a lot of watering.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #9: Hoya – Hoya carnosa

Hoya is another one of the easier indoor plants to take care of. While they do like morning sunlight, they prefer more indirect light. The thicker, waxy leaves can also do well with a little bit of neglect and don’t need as much constant watering. The flowers also produce a nice, sleep-inducing fragrance that is perfect for placing in a bedroom.

Find it here!

Fragrant Houseplant #10: Jasmine – Jasminum

Make sure that you buy actual jasmine (Jasminus), and not the fake jasmine (Philadelphus). Both smell great and do well as houseplants, but only the real jasmine contains the sedative properties that are great for inducing sleep through its fragrance, as well as being used for tea. One benefit to jasmine is that it can be planted in a soil-less potting mix, but it does require a higher level of sunlight. But the added attention is definitely worth it when you can fall asleep to the wonderful, sweet fragrance at night.

Find it here!

That’s my list of fragrant, indoor plants! Feel free to comment below if there are any others that you love! And also feel free to ask any questions as well. I hope that we can all benefit from having some of these wonderful fragrant plants in our homes!

Happy Digging!

Top 10 Large Indoor Plants

August 9, 2024August 25, 2017 by thegirlwithashovel

So after I did a post for small interior plants, I figured that I should do one about large interior plants. Unlike my tiny apartment, some of us are lucky and have wonderful, large rooms. And large rooms are perfect to add something that really makes a statement in the style that you want. These indoor plants are sure to grab people’s attention and will liven up any room fast!

Note: You can find many of these plants in smaller versions, but given adequate light, water, time, and a big enough pot, they will be able to reach their full mature size.

**Note: This post contains affiliate links, which if purchased, I will receive a portion of the profits at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with this awesome information!**

Large Indoor Plant #1: Split-leaf Philodendron – Monstera deliciosa

The Split-leaf Philodendron, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, has large, beautiful leaves. When fully grown, these leaves are often cut and used in artwork, or even floral arrangements. The distinctive look of this plant is sure to add texture to your space.

Split Leaf Philodendron – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #2: Dracaena – Dracaena spp.

There are many different types of dracaena that will all grow rather large if given proper care. The ‘Janet Craig’ dracaena and the ‘Cornstalk’ dracaena are especially suited and sold for their larger size. Just make sure that they don’t get too much light or water, as this can easily damage your plant.

Dracaena – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #3: Areca Palm – Dypsis lutescens

A long-time favorite, this is the classic indoor palm tree. Long, arching branches will look great in an style room, from cozy and cluttered, to minimalistic and modern. This palm just plain looks great anywhere!

Areca Palm – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #4: Fiddle-leaf Fig – Ficus lyrata

The Fiddle-leaf Fig has also been a big hit lately. With twisted, fiddle-shaped leaves and a more upright form, there is definitely something eye-catching about this plant. Make sure to keep it in once place, however, as being a ficus it doesn’t like to move around too much, as well as doesn’t like any warm or cold drafts.

Fiddle-leaf Fig – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #5: Flamingo Lily – Anthurium andraeanum

This plant is commonly sold as a smaller, younger plant. However, given enough time it can grow to be quite the large bush with beautiful, long leaves and flowers. One of the best ways to get this little guy to beef up is to slowly increase the size of the pot. Always make sure that it’s got a bit of wiggle room for its roots to grow, which will then ensure that the leaves will have the needed support to also grow larger.

Flamingo Lily – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #6: Weeping Fig – Ficus benjamina

Another popular tree from the ficus family, the Weeping Fig can get quite large if given the room to grow. However, make sure that it, like the Fiddle-leaf Fig, is put in a draft-free area and isn’t moved around. If put under stress, the Weeping Fig is likely to start shedding all of its leaves and eventually die (believe me, I know this from experience!) So take special care to pamper this big guy.

Weeping Fig – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #7: Ponytail Palm – Beaucarnea recurvata

I love this palm for its unique long leaves that really do resemble a ponytail! It is also known as the Elephant’s Foot palm as it has a large circular mound where it comes out of the soil. Definitely a unique plant, this palm does very well indoors and can grow as an outdoor tree in warmer climates.

Ponytail Palm – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #8: Snake Plant – Sansevieria trifasciata

While there are some smaller varieties of Snake Plant, most of them are considered large. I’ve found that Snake Plant will grow to its mature height (in wonderfully tall, modernistic lines), and then it will start to grow offshoots in either direction. So the larger the pot, the more full your snake plant will eventually be. This is perfect for some people as it will not continue to grow taller, but rather spread out. Put it in rectangular pots and it will add tons of sleek, sharp lines for your space.

Snake Plant – Get it here!

hard_to_kill_houseplants_sansevieria_trifasciata_snake_plant

Large Indoor Plant #9: Umbrella Tree – Schefflera actinophylla

Also simply called Schefflera, this is also one of those plants that are commonly sold as a very small houseplant. But given time and care, it can grow to be a fairly large tree. Just be sure to be patient and continually increasing its pot size and you will soon be rewarded with a very full, leafy indoor tree.

Umbrella Tree – Get it here!

Large Indoor Plant #10: Bamboo – Bambusoideae

While not commonly thought of as an indoor plant, this is a great one for long, rectangular pots (just like the Snake Plant). Due to its weedy tendencies a lot of people shy away from this guy, but that’s exactly what makes it perfect for the indoors! It is kept in its individual container, and its fast-growing tendencies make it easy to wait for. And make sure to buy a bamboo that will do well with the light that you have in the particular space.

Bamboo – Get it here!

Well there’s my list of top 10 large houseplants! I know that having one (or more) of these guys will not only green up and add life to any space, but will also give you tons of added benefits to your life. So if you’re lucky enough to have the space, enjoy these awesome plants!

Happy Digging!

15 Indoor Plants for Small Spaces

August 9, 2024August 18, 2017 by thegirlwithashovel

Not all of us have the luxury of extra space in our homes. This is one of the reasons why people don’t have houseplants… they feel like they don’t have the space for them! But here’s a list of 15 indoor plants that are perfect for small spaces. And don’t worry, I specifically chose plants that don’t just start small, but they’ll stay small! No need to move them to bigger and bigger pots. Nope, these really are small indoor plants!

Small Indoor Plants #1: Peperomia – Peperomia pellucida

This is a small, compact plant with semi-waxy leaves. It is very efficient in purifying the air, and is also an easy-to-care-for houseplant. Just make sure that it doesn’t get overwatered and the soil is allowed to dry between waterings.

Small Indoor Plants #2: Devil’s Ivy (Pothos) – Epipremnun aureum

I can’t say it enough how much I love Devil’s Ivy! This plant does well in low-light conditions and is hard to kill. It can do well being moist, but can also handle a bit of drying out. Left in a pot, it will continue to grow along the ends. These can simply be cut to desired length with a pair of scissors and the excess can either be tossed, or planted back into the pot for a thicker, bushier vine! For care information for this plant, check out my post Pothos Vine Care!

Small Indoor Plants #3: String of Pearls – Senecio rowleyanus

This is a great substitute for Devil’s Ivy. While the one can deal with extra water, String of Pearls is for those who tend to neglect their houseplants more often. It needs to dry out between waterings, or else it will die. And don’t worry, all of those little pearls are filled with water! And just like the Devil’s Ivy, this too can be trimmed at the ends and re-potted for more little plants! (just wind a little row around the top of a new pot and they will start to root!!!)

Small Indoor Plants #4: Spider Plant – Chlorophytum comosum

Spider plants are great for placing on countertops, side tables, or even hanging. They tend to grow to a full, bushy plant, then stop growing from there and instead send off their little ‘pups’. These small offshoots can either be left on for aesthetics, or they can be trimmed off and re-potted for more of these wonderful little plants! For care information for this plant, check out my post Spider Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #5: Orchids – Orchidaceae spp.

Orchids are a great, small plant. While taking up very little space for the pot, their vertical blooms are large and stunning, creating an instant focal point for any room. With proper care and instruction, they can even be persuaded to re-bloom multiple times, giving you multiple displays of these stunning blooms!

Small Indoor Plants #6: Heartleaf Philodendron – Philodendron cordatum

Heartleaf philodendron is also very similar to Devil’s Ivy. They prefer low-light conditions and do well with being overwatered, as well as can run a little dry. They have several different varieties available that can add different styles to your space.

Small Indoor Plants #7: Cacti – Cactaceae spp.

With so many to choose from, there are cacti for every space and style! Just make sure that they are in a well-draining potting mix, as well as they have time to dry out between waterings. They also do better with more sunlight, so sunny windowsills are great for these little guys! (as long as it isn’t too cold on the windowsill during the winter…)

Small Indoor Plants #8: English Ivy – Hedera helix

This little vine is great for the indoors! It prefers low light conditions and is one of my hard-to-kill houseplants. English Ivy is a very forgiving plant and can be trimmed back to stay in the space available.

Small Indoor Plants #9: Succulents

There are thousands of different types of succulents! Each one has a unique shape or coloring. They also vary quite a bit in size. From huge Agaves to their mini counterparts, succulents usually grow to a mature size, then will start producing seeds or offshoots. So when selecting a succulent, just make sure that the mature size fits with the space that you have in mind. For care information, check out my post Succulent Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #10: Lucky Bamboo – Dracaena braunii

Lucky bamboo has become quite popular in the last few years due to its ease in growing and its diversity in shapes. Lucky bamboo prefers low light conditions and does well in straight water. It is an easy-to-care-for houseplant and will be content for quite a long time before any trimming will be necessary. To know how to care for this plant, check out my post, Lucky Bamboo Plant Care!

hard_to_kill_houseplants_lucky_bamboo_dracaena

Small Indoor Plants #11: Bromeliads – Bromeliaceae spp.

Bromeliads are a sure way to add a bit of interest to a room! With lots of different colors and leaf patterns to choose from, bromeliads do very well indoors considering their low light and low water requirements. Though some bromeliads can get huge, choose a variety that is more suited for the indoors and has a smaller mature size. Once it reaches that size, it should then only focus on storing energy for its beautiful flower stalks, as well as in producing new pups. These little plantlets can then be removed and either thrown away or repotted for even more bromeliads! (And remember… plants make great gifts!)

Small Indoor Plants #12: Aloe Vera – Aloe vera

This plant is a very common houseplant and is being seen more and more as fewer people have their own yards. Once again, choose a plant that will fit your space at its mature size and you won’t have any issues with running out of space. Also try to give it a bit more sunlight and let it dry out between waterings. The quickest way to kill a cactus or a succulent is by overwatering it! For information on how to care for this plant, check out my post on Aloe Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #13: African Violet – Saintpaulia

African violets are a pretty, small, flowering plant that does very well indoors. Some things to avoid, however, are overwatering and getting water on its leaves. This can cause brown spots to appear. Try to instead water the plant from the bottom through keeping it in a container with drainage holes and letting the pot sit in a shallow container of water for about 10 minutes. This will ensure that the leaves stay dry, while the roots stay moist. For care information for this plant, check out my post African Violet Plant Care!

Small Indoor Plants #14: Air Plants – Tillandsia spp.

Tillandsia (commonly referred to as simply ‘air plants’) have made quite the scene in recent indoor design. From the many different variations in usage to the very low-maintenance aspect, Air Plants are definitely on the rise! These plants can range in size and can come in slight variations in color. All air plants, however, need the same type of watering. Basically, do not water more than once a week, and during the weekly waterings, simply soak roots in water for 10-15 minutes, then put it back on display! For more information, check out my post, Air Plant Care, as well as How to Water Air Plants!

Small Indoor Plants #15: Venus Flytraps – Dionaea muscipula

While a little more difficult to take care of, Venus flytraps will definitely make a statement in any space. There are also many different sizes of flytraps that will stay small and compact for years. They do, however, need purified water, as some of the hard tap waters can cause damage to it. Also feed it according to the recommendations of the specific flytrap that you purchase. Then have fun watching these guys open and close, and maybe even get rid of some of the bugs in your home!

That’s it for my list of small interior plants! Once again, I tried to choose plants that not only started off small, but also stayed small and wouldn’t get too large over time. Because believe me, I understand when people are short on space, but still want to squeeze in a plant or two to liven things up! And feel free to share any comments or questions below!

Happy digging!