When it comes to keeping a plant alive and thriving, what is the most common mistake people make?
Picking a plant based off their aesthetic, as opposed to picking a plant based off their environment. For example, I’ve been lusting after a heart leaf fern (Hemionitus arifolia) forever. It’s my dream houseplant. But I know this humidity-loving houseplant wouldn’t stand a chance in my dry NYC apartment, so I’ve filled it with succulents instead.
What plants do you recommend for beginners?
A philodendron or pothos plant! Both are hardy trailing plants, which means you’ll see the fruits of your labor – new growth – more quickly than some other common houseplants.
And what plants require a little bit more care but are worth the effort?
Air plants (Tillandsia) – they thrive in humid environments, so you’ll be spraying them and soaking them, but because they can grow without soil, you can put them practically anywhere that they’ll receive bright light.
