Are you looking to bring more greenery into your home but unsure where to start?

Choosing the right indoor plants can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or a beginner in the world of houseplants, this guide will help you navigate the lush jungle of options.

At Brickell Plant Dad, we're passionate about helping you find the perfect leafy companion for your space. Let's dive into our top 10 considerations for selecting your ideal house plant!

 

1. Assess Your Light Conditions: The Key to Thriving Indoor Plants

Before you fall in love with that gorgeous Fiddle Leaf Fig – or any indoor plant that catches your eye – it's crucial to understand the light conditions in your home:

Bright Direct Light

• Perfect for: Succulents, Cacti, and many flowering plants
• Examples: Aloe vera, Echeveria, and Sunflowers

Bright Indirect

• Ideal for: Popular houseplants like Monstera deliciosa (or Swiss Cheese Plant) and Ficus lyrata (commonly known as the Fiddle Leaf Fig)
• Also great for: Philodendron, Pothos, and Spider Plants

Low Light

• Best for: Hardy plants that can tolerate darker corners
• Also suitable: Snake Plants (Sansevieria), ZZ Plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), or Chinese Evergreens (Aglaonema)

Pro tip

If you can read a book comfortably without squinting, that's probably bright indirect light. For more specific light measurements, consider using a light meter app on your smartphone. We recommend the Planta app!

 

2. Consider Your Plant Care Experience: From Newbie to Green Thumb

Be honest about your plant parenting skills when choosing your next houseplant:

Beginners

• Start with low-maintenance options like Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) or Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum)
• These plants are forgiving and can tolerate some neglect – perfect for a first-time plant owner!

Intermediate

• Try your hand at Philodendrons or Peace Lilies (Spathiphyllum)
• These plants require a bit more attention but are still relatively easy to care for

Advanced

• Challenge yourself with orchids, rare tropical varieties, or finicky plants like Calathea
• These plants often need specific care routines and environmental conditions

Pro tip

Remember, every plant enthusiast started somewhere. Don't be afraid to learn and grow with your plants!

 

3. Evaluate Your Available Space: Finding the Right Fit

Consider both the current size of the plant and its potential growth:

Small Spaces

• Opt for compact plants like Peperomias, Air Plants (Tillandsia), or small succulents
• Perfect for: Desktops, shelves, or small apartments

Larger

• Statement plants like Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) or Rubber Trees (Ficus elastica) can fill empty corners
• Ideal for: Living rooms, entryways, or offices with ample space

Pro Tip

Always check the potential mature size of a plant before purchasing. That cute little ficus might turn into a tree one day!

 

4. Understand Watering Requirements: Finding Your Plant's Sweet Spot

Match your plant's needs to your lifestyle and watering habits:

Lots of free time? Try a thirsty plant

• Ferns, Calatheas, and African Violets love consistent moisture
• Perfect for those who enjoy daily plant care routines

Busy lifestyle? You'll want something low maintenance

• Succulents, Zanzibar Gems (ZZ Plants), and Snake Plants are forgiving of dry spells
• Ideal for busy individuals or those who travel frequently

Pro Tip

• Use the Brickell Plant Dad rule of "thumb" to know when to water. Simply place your thumb into the soil of the plant – if the top two inches are dry, it's time to water!
• To be more exact, you can invest in a moisture meter to take the guesswork out of watering your houseplants.

 

5. Consider Humidity Levels: Creating a Tropical Paradise or Desert Oasis

Some plants need extra humidity to thrive:

High Humidity

• Tropical plants like Monsteras, Alocasias, and Ferns
• Consider using a humidifier or pebble tray to increase moisture

Adaptable to Average Home Humidity

• Most common houseplants like Pothos, Dracaenas, and Spider Plants
• These plants can tolerate typical indoor humidity levels

 

6. Prioritize Pet and Child Safety: Keeping Your Loved Ones Safe

If you have pets or small children, opt for non-toxic plants:

Safe Options

• Spider Plants, Boston Ferns, and African Violets
• Calathea, Haworthia, and Parlor Palms are also pet-friendly

Plants to Avoid

• Lilies, Dieffenbachia, and some Philodendrons can be toxic if ingested
• Always research a plant's toxicity before bringing it home!

Pro Tip

For a comprehensive list of pet-safe plants, check out the ASPCA's toxic and non-toxic plants database.

 

7. Look for Air Purification Properties: Clean Air, Naturally

Some houseplants are known for their air-cleaning abilities:

Top Air Purifiers

• Snake Plants, Peace Lilies, and Bamboo Palms
• Spider Plants, Dracaenas, and Rubber Plants also make excellent air purifiers

Pro Tip

According to NASA's Clean Air Study, these plants can help remove common indoor air pollutants, improving your home's air quality naturally.

 

8. Match Your Aesthetic and Decor Style: Plant Fashionista Alert!

Choose plants that complement your home's style:

Modern Minimalist

• Sleek Snake Plants or sculptural Fiddle Leaf Figs
• Consider plants with clean lines and bold shapes

Bohemian

• Trailing plants like String of Pearls or macramé-hung Pothos
• Mix and match different textures and leaf patterns

Traditional

• Classic Ferns or elegant Peace Lilies
• Opt for plants with timeless appeal and lush foliage

Pro Tip

Remember, plants are like living art. Choose ones that speak to your personal style and enhance your space.

 

9. Assess Maintenance and Time Commitment: Finding Your Plant Care Balance

Be realistic about the time you can dedicate to plant care:

Low Maintenance

• ZZ Plants, Snake Plants, and Pothos require minimal care
• Perfect for busy lifestyles or those new to plant parenting

Higher Maintenance

• Orchids, Bonsai, and tropical varieties often need more attention
• Ideal for plant enthusiasts who enjoy spending time caring for their green friends

Pro Tip

Start with low-maintenance plants and gradually work your way up to more demanding species as you gain confidence and experience.

 

10. Consider Your Budget: From Bargain Finds to Luxury Greens

Plants can vary widely in price:

Investment Pieces

• Rare varieties or larger specimen plants can be pricier. Consider these as long-term investments in your plant collection

Budget-Friendly Options

• Many common houseplants like Pothos, Spider Plants, or small succulents
• At Brickell Plant Dad, we focus on affordable, easy-care house plants – check out our latest affordable house plants here!

Pro Tip

Remember, a more expensive plant doesn't necessarily mean a better plant. Sometimes, the most rewarding plants are the ones you nurture from small beginnings.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a New House Plant

Q: How do I know if my home has enough light for plants?

A: Start by observing the natural light in your space throughout the day. South-facing windows typically provide the most light, while north-facing windows offer lower light conditions. You can also use a light meter app on your smartphone for more precise measurements.

 

Q: What are some good plants for beginners?

A: Some excellent starter plants include Pothos, Snake Plants, ZZ Plants, Spider Plants, and Succulents. These plants are generally forgiving and can tolerate a range of conditions.

 

Q: How often should I water my houseplants?

A: Watering frequency depends on the plant species, pot size, light conditions, and humidity levels. As a general rule, it's better to underwater than overwater. Always check the soil moisture before watering, and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.

 

Q: Can I keep plants in rooms without windows?

A: While natural light is best for most plants, some low-light tolerant species can survive in rooms without windows if supplemented with artificial grow lights. Consider plants like ZZ Plants, Snake Plants, or Chinese Evergreens for these spaces.

 

Q: How do I prevent pests on my indoor plants?

A: Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests, keep leaves clean and dust-free, avoid overwatering, and ensure good air circulation. If you notice any pests, isolate the affected plant and treat it promptly with appropriate methods.

 

Q: What's the best way to repot a houseplant?

A: Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Water the plant a day before repotting. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh potting mix. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a shaded area for a few days to recover.

 

Q: How can I increase humidity for my tropical plants?

A: There are several ways to increase humidity: use a pebble tray filled with water, group plants together, use a humidifier, or mist the leaves regularly. Avoid placing plants near heating vents or air conditioners, which can dry out the air.

 

Q: Are there any plants that can thrive in bathrooms?

A: Yes! Many plants love the humidity of bathrooms. Some great options include Ferns (like Boston Ferns), Peace Lilies, Bamboo, Orchids, and Pothos. Just ensure they receive adequate light, either from a window or artificial sources.

 

Q: How do I know when it's time to fertilize my houseplants?

A: Most houseplants benefit from fertilization during their active growing season (typically spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during this period. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilizing.

 

Q: Can I use regular garden soil for my indoor plants?

A: It's best to avoid using regular garden soil for indoor plants. Instead, use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for houseplants. These mixes provide better aeration, drainage, and nutrient balance for container plants. You can find specialty mixes for specific plant types like succulents or orchids.

 

Remember, every plant and environment is unique. Don't hesitate to ask for specific advice about your plants and growing conditions. At Brickell Plant Dad, we're always here to help you on your plant parenthood journey!

Ready to start your plant parenthood journey or expand your existing collection? Explore our curated selection of houseplants and find your perfect green companion today!