Low–maintenance indoor plants are the best of both worlds: you don’t need to do much to take care of them, and they can really help brighten your space and lift your mood. This March marks the first anniversary of when many of the COVID-19 restrictions were put in place, and to make matters worse, across Canada and the United States, it’s cold!
At this time of year, many Canadians and Americans are usually thinking about which bar or pub to head to for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration (green beer, anyone?), but this year, practicing safe social distancing means doing so isn’t really an option.
Don’t despair! Below, find the LEO Team’s five suggestions for low–maintenance indoor plants to help brighten your home in the winter. We hope they’ll help you keep on keeping on throughout the extended periods of confinement we’re facing.
OUR 5 SUGGESTIONS FOR LOW-MAINTENANCE INDOOR PLANTS
Succulents
Succulents are great low-maintenance indoor plants because they require very little water and do well in dry conditions (aka, indoors, in Canada, in the middle of winter). They come in different shapes, sizes, and colours: pick your favourite, or plant a few different ones (just make sure not to overcrowd them!).
Spider Plants
Spider plants are a great way to add a touch of green to your space. They have long, thin leaves and work well as hanging plants or in large planters. Spider plants don’t necessarily need direct sunlight, making them a good choice if there is not much natural light in your home. A word of advice: situate these plants away from other plants in your home– they spread easily and may end up invading your other planters.
Kalanchoe
Do you prefer something flowering versus something that’s just green? Enter kalanchoe. This low-fuss plant is available in a variety of colours and is actually a type of succulent. Kalanchoe plants like a fair bit of sunlight (just not direct sunlight, as they may burn). You can even transfer these versatile plants outdoors in summer!
Moth Orchids
Not dusty, as their name may suggest, moth orchids are reportedly great for beginners (busting the myth that all orchids are difficult to grow!). You may need to do a bit more research about their optimal growing conditions (compared to the other plants on our list), but these are a solid low-maintenance indoor plant option for those who prefer flowers. Moth orchids like moist soil and pots that provide good drainage.
Fresh Herbs
It isn’t the middle of summer anymore, and the produce available at the grocery store can be a bit discouraging at times! Having home-grown herbs available to add to your pasta, soups, salads, and more is a great way to add flavour and spark joy. Plant herbs in pots throughout your home, or spring for an electronic herb garden planter with adjustable light and moisture options. Some of our favourite herbs to grow indoors are basil, chives, and rosemary. Make sure you double check to see which herbs can share pots (or not!).
Important Note: Before adding a new plant to your home, always check that it’s safe for everyone who lives there: children, pets, etc.
READY TO START YOUR INDOOR GARDEN? SIGN UP FOR LEO TO START EARNING POINTS TODAY.
As we all know, new projects need new supplies. We have a way for you to earn some: LEO! On LEO, you’ll earn points when you complete online surveys. When you’ve earned enough points, you can redeem them for rewards, like a prepaid Visa card or a PayPal transfer to purchase some new plants, potting soil, pots, or other must-haves to start your plant paradise!
Sign up for LEO here if you haven’t already!
If gardening just isn’t your thing (or green just isn’t your colour!), there is another option: donating your LEO points to plant trees. Learn how by checking out our One Tree Planted reward option.
We’re sorry that you aren’t able to head out to share your favourite beverage with a friend this St. Patrick’s Day; we hope that one of our suggestions will help to brighten your mood and your home!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE LOW-MAINTENANCE INDOOR PLANT?
TELL US IN THE COMMENTS BELOW.
If you are interested in reading other articles about boosting your mood, check out our 6 Apps to Cheer You Up article.
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