The secret to thriving houseplants (2024)

Struggling to keep your collection of houseplants alive? We know the feeling. Caring for plants can be tricky, but with a little care and attention, we can guarantee your home will be full of thriving foliage.

Here are some failsafe tips for taking care of your indoor plants, including the best locations in your home to keep your greenery happy and healthy.

Opt for plants that thrive with minimal care

Don't start on the wrong foot by choosing problem plants that need expert levels of care, especially if you're a new plant parent. Instead, opt for varieties that require little in terms of being looked after, and those that do double duty by looking brilliant, too. Essentially, your focus should be on low maintenance plants.

'Start with an alocasia plant – it boasts gorgeous large leaves that love light (but not direct sunlight) and features unusual zebra-striped stems. To keep it in tip-top condition, ensure the soil is kept moist and wipe the leaves regularly to remove any dust,' says M&S Flowers editor Olivia Ferguson.

Another recommendation is the almost-unkillable snake plant. 'All it needs is light, watering every couple of weeks and dusting every so often,' Olivia continues. 'Snake plants are perfect for the bedroom, as they soak up oxygen during the day and release it at night.'

Style tip: For maximum impact, arrange a selection of plants on a sideboard or table at different heights to create an eye-catching focal point.

Moisture is key but don't overwater

It's common knowledge that houseplants tend to be thirstier during warmer weather, which is why hydration is more important than ever.

'You will probably need to water them more often than you would during cooler months, but be careful not to overwater them, either,' warns plant expert Alex Biggart of 123 Flowers. 'On days where you don't water them, it can be useful to spray them with mist to keep cool.'

And be careful with fertiliser

It's tempting to use fertiliser for houseplants that seem a little lifeless, especially if you think they are wilting during the warmer temperatures, but avoid doing so during summer.

'Plants can go into a form of survival mode during prolonged hot weather, and adding fertiliser can increase this stress,' says Alex. 'It's best to use fertiliser before summer so they are strong and healthy heading into the warmer months.'

Don't be afraid to prune and repot

There are plenty of houseplants that need next-to-no care, but no matter the variety, once in a while a spruce-up is needed. 'If a leaf or stem is looking a little sad or dry, simply remove it with shears or scissors to encourage new growth,' says Olivia.

If you need to repot, lightly water your plant the day before to soften the soil, remove the plant and prune the roots. Place your plant in a new pot that's roughly two inches larger in diameter, then add compost and water, and watch it flourish.

Remember, humidity-loving plants thrive in bathrooms

Choosing the right environment for your plants is key to them thriving. While you might only think of light and airy spaces, your bathroom – despite its humidity – makes the perfect home for moisture-loving species.

'Opt for a Boston fern, as it loves the moisture a bathroom setting provides and prefers rooms with low light. Just be sure to check the soil once a week, making sure it's moist, and allowing any excess water to drain off,' suggests Olivia. 'Humidity-loving calatheas, monsteras and succulents would also make great additions to your bathroom. Just check the care guide provided on what your plant needs to flourish.'

And utilise your kitchen as a plant-friendly location

Make the most of the natural light in your kitchen with the addition of houseplants that thrive in the sun.

'Light, airy kitchens with high ceilings and plenty of surfaces are the perfect setting for a selection of statement plants,' says Olivia. 'My top pick? For a touch of seventies-inspired style, I love an extra-large palm plant as it's super easy to care for – just position it in a slightly sunny spot, mist regularly and water around once a week.

'Or choose an on-trend large monstera (also known as a Swiss cheese plant), as this statement plant is super stylish and low maintenance too – win, win! Just place it in a sunny spot, mist the leaves regularly and only water when the top two inches of soil are dry.'

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