Start Your Plant Journey: 3 Easy Indoor Plants for Beginners
So, you wanna be a plant parent? Love that for you. But before you go snatching up every cute leafy thing in sight, let’s make sure you’re not just setting them up for an early trip to the great compost bin in the sky.
Listen, I’ve been there—falling for a plant just because it looks good, only to watch it slowly tap out because I didn’t actually know what it needed. Don’t be like me (well, past me). The key to keeping plants alive is knowing what works for your space and lifestyle.
Let’s break it down so you can pick a plant that thrives, not just survives. Keep reading to find out what you need to know before buying—and three plants ideal for beginners!
Step 1: Research—Don’t Just Grab & Go
Before you impulsively swipe your card, ask yourself:
• What’s my light situation? Pull out your phone’s compass:
• North – Weak, indirect light (phew)
• East – Soft morning sun (gentle vibes)
• South – Strong, all-day sun (sun lovers only)
• West – Blazing afternoon sun (be ready)
• What’s my lifestyle?
• Always on the go? Get a plant that doesn’t need constant check-ins.
• Home a lot? You can manage one that needs a little extra love.
• Humidity check!
• Some plants don’t care. Others (cough ferns cough) will straight-up crumble if the air is too dry.
• Vents & heaters? They suck the moisture out of the air—plan accordingly.
• Got Pets?
• Some plants are toxic — do a quick search to figure out if It is safe before bringing home.
Step 2: Shop Small, Shop Smart
Skip the big-box plant section. Small plant shops = healthier plants & people who actually know what they’re talking about. Plus, you’re supporting a small business. Win-win.
Step 3: Pick Your First Plant
1. Snake Plant
A perfect beginner-friendly, pet- safe plant that thrives in indirect light and even produces baby plants (spiderettes) you can propagate!
• Perfect for beginners and safe for cats and dogs.
• Thrives in bright, indirect light but can handle lower light.
• Bonus: It purifies the air and even produces cute baby plants (spiderettes) that you can propagate.
2. Pothos
The ultimate beginner-friendly plant. Thrives in low to medium light and forgives a missed watering or two. Psst! And It is available online!
• Practically indestructible.
• Handles low light, grows fast, and won’t throw a fit if you forget a watering.
• Trails beautifully—perfect for shelves or hanging spots.
• Not pet-safe!
3. ZZ Plant
A low-maintenance powerhouse with water-storing rhizomes, making it perfect for busy or forgetful plant parents.
• Water-storing rhizomes (those little potato-looking things) make it super resilient.
• Can thrive in low light and doesn’t need frequent watering.
• If you need a plant that just exists without a lot of effort, this is your buddy.
• Not pet-safe!
Step 4: Make It Cute
• Drainage matters! No drainage hole? Layer rocks before adding soil.
• Plastic pots got pre-punched holes? Poke ‘em through with a screwdriver—problem solved.
Final Tip: Stay Informed, Stay Alive
Nobody is a “bad plant parent.” It’s all about matching the right plant to your space and lifestyle. Learn what works, and soon you’ll have a thriving indoor jungle. Welcome to plant parenthood!
At The ZEN Succulent, we know that houseplants aren’t just decor—they’re long-term companions that make your space feel alive. If you’re new to plant care, starting with beginner-friendly picks like Pothos, ZZ Plant, and Snake Plant can set you up for success. Got a favorite? Drop a comment or tag us with your plant wins (or struggles). Let’s grow together!
Words By The ZEN Succulent
Inspiring everyone to embrace the world of plants, our collection features articles penned by The Sill's team of seasoned plant experts. Covering a range of plant care topics, because we truly believe Plants Bring Life, Joy and Inspirations™
