Hardy indoor plants

You love plants, but you find it difficult to care for them. Although it appears easy, there are some factors that may hamper this activity which, according to various studies, reduces stress levels, improves self-esteem and helps us to disconnect.  

When we talk about indoor plants, the main obstacles we face are having a house with little light, not having a terrace or balcony or, simply, not having enough time to give to them the necessary care. But we have the answer! There are a group of very hardy indoor plants that hardly require any care. Large and small plants, with and without flowers, even palms… Different, but with something in common: they are all very hardy.  

These are some of them:

• Pothoh

This is one of the most popular indoor plants. It is very hardy for use in poorly lit areas and only needs watering when the soil becomes dry.  It is perfect for displaying on top of a tall piece of furniture or shelving and will give a very special green touch to your home.

• Sansevieria

Also known as “mother-in-law’s tongue”. It is tall and has bicoloured sword-shaped leaves. It is a decorative plant that you can place anywhere in the home, as it doesn’t take up much space. It needs very little watering: once every two weeks is more than enough.

• Ficus lyrata

Another classic indoor plant that you will find in many places. This plant requires minimum care, but with a few simple tips will make an impact and brighten up any space. You should keep it away from radiators and protect it from draughts and low temperatures. It needs indirect light and should be watered a few times a week when you can feel that the soil is dry.

• Red anthurium

A pretty plant that is also very hardy and flowers almost all year long. It needs indirect light so that it doesn’t lose its characteristic bright red colour, and it also needs the soil to be damp. If you spray a little water on its leaves once in a while they will look magnificent.

• African violet

When we talk about indoor plants we are also referring to flowers that can resist the more adverse conditions indoors.  This is the case for the African violet, which can keep its flowers throughout the whole year if you place it in a suitable location. It doesn’t require much sunlight, but it needs to be between 21 ºC and 10 ºC to survive.

• Fern

Ferns need little else other than water and a semi-shaded place. They are best placed in a slightly humid area. A bathroom is a good place for them. You should avoid placing them being in direct sunlight

• Aloe vera

Another plant that will survive in almost any situation.  The Aloe vera is a desert plant that is very hardy in heated indoor areas. Apart from being a very attractive plant, its leaves can be used for therapeutic and beauty purposes. Put it in a place with light, if possible. Water it every 15 to 20 days.

• Kentia palm

The Kentia is one of the palms that are best adapted for indoors. Of course, it also grows outdoors but, due to its hardiness, it is one of the trees that give the best results for enclosed spaces. It is easy to care for. In summer it only needs watering two or three times a week, while in winter, it is enough to water it once or twice a month.  You should avoid overwatering. It is best placed near a window or source of light, but not in direct sunlight.

• Yucca

Another very decorative plant that is very easy to care for is the yucca. Water it every 15 to 20 days during the winter and once a week during the spring and summer. The main cause of the yucca’s demise is excessive watering, so, let the soil dry fully between waterings. It requires natural light. If possible, in summer it should be placed in the light, if this is convenient, and in winter, place them in the coolest area of the house, the furthest away from heating and sources of heat that you can.

• Monstera

Also known as Adam’s rib. The beauty of its large, holey leaves and the tropical environment it creates wherever it is placed have made this one of the most sought-after indoor plants in recent years. It needs very little for growth. It likes light, but this should be indirect. It should be watered without soaking the soil, and it is best if it gets a little thirsty. As a general rule, it should be watered 1 or 2 times a week during the summer months, and once every 15 days during the winter.