By now, in early February, “Cabin Fever” is raging amongst Midwesterners. Perhaps you’ve even been somewhere warm (south Texas, Florida, Arizona), seen green plants outdoors and are longing for that kind of greenery at your residence. To help overcome the winter blues, try these easy to care for houseplants; it will help scratch the itch and not require a lot of resources to do it.
Each of the following plants has its own set of care guidelines, but in general, boosting the humidity of the growing space, ensuring that adequate sunlight is received and keeping the soil moist, not soggy or dry are good practices for houseplants in winter.
[Photos courtesy Aaron Steil, ISU and University of Alaska]
Cast Iron Plant – Wow, the name says it all. Not particularly dazzling in appearance, this one makes up for it in durability and growing well despite the traditional conditions indoors in the Midwest.
Jade Plant – Jade is a succulent type that requires a light level on the high side, but is not fussy in terms of dry soils or humidity. As long as the roots don’t rot from overwatering, jade is a good indoor choice.
Pothos – Sometimes considered to be the “can’t fail” houseplant, pothos features heart shaped, speckled green and yellow leaves on vining stems. It’s a great gift for an office desktop.
Snake Plant – Another sure-fire success story in the making, snake plant grows well in low light, low humidity and variable temperatures. It’s commonly available in green/yellow or green/white variegation patterns arranged on long, tall leaves.
Spider Plant – Best grown in hanging baskets, spider (aka airplane) plant extends long, slender bi-colored or solid green leaves from a central growing point. Once mature, daughter plants are produced, making it possible to clip them off and start new plants.
ZZ Plant – A well-adapted to indoors plant with a name that’s fun to say, it tolerates low light levels, dry conditions and low humidity. ZZ plant is best known for its glossy, upright compound leaves.
Peperomia – Heart-shaped, slightly notched glossy leaves best describe peperomia plants. They grow best surrounded by warm air and average humidity. They do not tolerate overwatering well.
Chinese evergreen – This plant has long, variegated lance shaped leaves that arise from a single stem. They can be displayed in glass windows or on low tables, depending on the size of the plant material.
To ensure success with any houseplant, it’s important to read the plant care tag instructions provided by the garden center and take measures to follow them carefully. Sunlight, humidity level, temperature and moisture content of the soil are critical factors.
