How I Stopped Killing My Plants

Five steps to live by if you don’t have a green thumb

Photo by the author (an assortment of her favorite window plants)

We’ve all had a little green thumb envy. I’m the first to confess. As a child, visiting my aunt's house on weekends I’d like to say it’s the stimulating conversation and summer BBQ antics I remember the most… but it’s not. No, most summer evenings you could find me snuggled up in her reading room nestled in amongst the perky potted trees and willowy ivy daintily hanging in their macrame hammocks. Even as a child I instinctively felt the power and subtle majesty of plants. They made the atmosphere feel fresh and comforting.

Fast-forward to thirty-five-year-old me. Now I’m the one inviting weekend guests over in the summer. Unfortunately, I did not inherit my aunt's seemingly Buddha-like green thumb. Not even close. In fact at one point, and I’m almost embarrassed to admit this, I was literally buying new house plants monthly to replace the sadly departed that hadn’t survived my efforts. The guilt of my murderous spree led me to finally take a stand one sobering Saturday. I dove headfirst into houseplants 101… and this is what I learned.

Five steps to live by if you don’t have a green thumb

A selection of easy to grow potted houseplants by Brina Blum

1. Think low maintenance: Set yourself up for success with a game plan. Choose plants that need as little care as possible. When I first started collecting plants for my favorite windowsill I was admittedly overly ambitious. If I liked it… I bought it… it went into my window. I was in way over my head. Looking back I know now that I had plants with differing complex lighting, watering and climate need all forced into the same space. Think of plants like your friends. They all thrive in different circumstances and have unique needs. If loved properly, they will grow, thrive, and reward you with their beauty. Here are ten easy to grow house plants guaranteed to please: Aloe, Air Plants, Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Jade, Succulents, Philodendron, Spider Plant, Chinese Money Plant, and the Rabbit’s Ear.
2. Looking on the bright side: Location can be everything. Choose spots in your home that get consistent…