Houseplants add life to any home, but not all are beginner-friendly. Some varieties are notoriously tricky to keep alive, yet they continue flying off shelves. Whether due to aesthetics, trends, or the allure of a challenge, these plants remain in high demand despite their diva-like care requirements.
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
The fiddle leaf fig, adored for its bold, glossy leaves, is a top choice for many but notoriously tricky to maintain. This plant thrives with 6 to 8 hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day and needs well-draining soil that is slightly acidic in pH. Fluctuating humidity can cause leaf browning, while spider mites thrive in dry conditions. To prevent these issues, regularly mist the leaves or use a humidifier to maintain consistent humidity. Allow the top half of the soil to dry before watering to avoid root rot, and fertilize monthly during spring and summer to support healthy growth.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns are popular for their lush fronds but can be a handful indoors. They need bright, filtered light and loamy, well-drained soil. Regular misting helps maintain the high humidity they crave. Water frequently to moisten the soil and fertilize it during the growing season. Adding an inch of compost and mulch annually boosts their health, but their fronds often dry out without meticulous care.
Croton (Codiaeum variegatum)
Crotons are loved for their vibrant colors but are notoriously tricky to grow due to their high maintenance needs. To keep their vibrant colors, they require consistent warmth and plenty of direct sunlight. Ideal humidity levels range from 40% to 80%. Keep them away from drafts, air-conditioning vents, or sudden temperature changes to prevent stress and leaf drop.
Orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.)
Orchids turn heads with graceful blooms but require specialized care, starting with a well-draining, airy growing medium like bark or sphagnum moss instead of regular potting soil. Ensure the growing medium dries out thoroughly between waterings to prevent root rot. Use a diluted orchid-specific or balanced fertilizer, such as 20-20-20, and scale back feeding during the dormant winter months after flowering.
String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
The string of pearls is a sought-after succulent but challenging to maintain. It needs direct morning sunlight and indirect light in the afternoon. Water it just enough to keep the soil moist during the active growing season and reduce watering in winter. Keep it at temperatures above 50°F and away from high humidity. Regular feeding in spring and summer helps keep it thriving.
Calathea (Calathea spp.)
Popular for their intricate leaves, calatheas thrive in light conditions that mimic their natural understory habitat, avoiding direct sunlight. These plants are sensitive to cold and require a warm, humid environment. The soil should be lightweight, slightly acidic, and rich in organic matter, staying moist but never soggy. Monthly fertilization, except in winter, supports healthy growth.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy remains a timeless favorite for indoor greenery,but often struggles with pests and dry indoor air. It requires slightly moist yet not overly wet soil and benefits from feeding with a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer during spring and summer. Although it spreads quickly outdoors as a ground cover, low indoor humidity, and pest issues often cause it to decline.
Alocasia (Alocasia spp.)
This striking elephant ear plant demands meticulous care. It thrives in warm spaces with high humidity, bright, indirect light, and well-balanced soil conditions. To prevent root rot, use a slightly acidic, well-draining potting mix. Water consistently to keep the soil moist, reducing frequency in winter.
African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha)
African violets are prized for their flowers but are challenging to grow because they are susceptible to water and humidity levels. They thrive in bright, warm, and humid environments but require careful attention to watering. Water should never touch their leaves, as it can cause brown spots. Regularly remove dead flowers and ensure the soil isn’t overly damp to prevent root rot.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)
Peace lilies are cherished for their elegant blooms yet are prone to root rot and leaf browning without proper care. They thrive in rich, moderately moist soil and filtered sunlight, making them ideal for indoor conditions. Keeping temperatures between 65–80°F is crucial, and they prefer to be underwatered. Regular fertilization during the summer promotes healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.)
Maidenhair ferns are enchanted with their delicate fronds but are notoriously hard to keep alive due to their need for constant humidity and moisture. For optimal growth, place them in bright, indirect light or dappled sunlight. Maintain a room temperature around 70°F and use a moist, well-draining potting mix. Maintain consistent watering to ensure the soil stays evenly damp, but avoid waterlogging, as even slight neglect can lead to wilting.
Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
The polka dot plant’s colorful leaves make it an eye-catcher, but it’s prone to becoming leggy and losing its vibrancy. These plants thrive in rich, well-draining potting mix and need a warm spot with bright, indirect light indoors or partial sun outdoors. Water when the top half-inch of soil dries out and add fertilizer monthly during spring and summer.
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
This dramatic tropical plant is a showstopper but only works indoors in near-perfect conditions. For it to thrive, place it in a warm spot with bright, indirect sunlight. Water regularly with well-draining soil, feed it compost in spring and fertilize it weekly during the growing season. For better growth, move it outside in summer and indoors during winter.