She Strengthens

The Power of Plants: Boosting Mental Well-being and Purifying the Air

Plants have long been recognized for their incredible ability to enhance our lives, from improving focus and memory to providing comfort and promoting mindfulness. While they shouldn’t replace traditional therapy, plants undoubtedly bring a sense of vitality and joy to our daily routines.

Unlocking the Secrets of Plant Care

According to Joyce Mast, a seasoned horticulturist with over 40 years of experience, the key to keeping your plants thriving lies in understanding their light and water requirements. By following her expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled plant parent.

Lighting Essentials

• Place plants in spots with eastern or western facing windows to avoid direct sunlight.
• Keep plants that don’t require intense light farther away from windows to prevent scorching.
• Check for signs of sunburn, such as bleached or dull-looking leaves, and adjust accordingly.

Watering Wisdom

• Insert your finger into the soil up to two inches to determine if it’s dry or damp.
• Water only when the soil feels dry, and avoid overwatering by stopping when water begins to drain out of the pot.
• Always use pots with drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.

Low-Maintenance Plants for a Happy Home

Here are 23 low-fuss, high-reward plants that are perfect for busy individuals or those new to plant parenthood. From the virtually indestructible ZZ plant to the stunning Bird of Paradise, there’s something for every style and space.

Indoor Plants That Thrive in Indirect Light

1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – $$
2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – $
3. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) – $$$
4. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata) – $$
5. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) – $$
6. English Ivy (Hedera helix) – $$
7. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – $$
8. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) – $$
9. Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata) – $$$
10. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides) – $$
11. Philodendron Heartleaf (Philodendron cordatum) – $
12. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) – $$
13. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) – $$
14. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia) – $
15. Swiss Cheese Vine (Monstera adansonii) – $$
16. Red Prayer Plant (Chamaedorea elegans) – $
17. Red Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum) – $$

Plants That Flourish in Direct Light

1. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) – $$
2. Heart Hoya (Hoya kerrii) – $$
3. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) – $$
4. Hedgehog Aloe (Aloe humilis) – $$
5. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) – $$$
6. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) – $

Remember to choose plants that fit your lifestyle and environment, and don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance if you need it. Happy planting!