Do you have trouble remembering to feed something unless it barks, meows or yells at you? Don’t resign yourself to fake plants yet — some plants are easy to care for even if you don’t have a green thumb. For example, succulents are a group of plants that store water in their leaves, which of course is perfect for forgetful plant owners. Air plants don’t even need soil to live — they take nutrients from the air and grow on other plants or objects. So it is possible! Try these ten easy-care plants in your home or garden.
- Echeveria. If you want a succulent with pop of color, echeveria is a perfect choice. Available in a rainbow of colors, echeveria is very common and easily found in nurseries.
- Pothos. Pothos has air-purifying qualities that absorb and strip toxins like formaldehyde from materials in the home AND it’s hard to kill. Need we say more?
- Aloe. Available in large and small varieties, aloe is like pressing the easy button when it comes to plant care. You can also use it to make your own aloe vera gel.
- Agave. There are many gorgeous varieties of this spiny plant, none of which are difficult to keep alive. Agave also has quite the culinary history.
- Stonecrops (also known as sedums). If you want to take your salad up a notch, add stonecrop leaves for a peppery kick. They can also be a flavorful addition to stir frys.
- Peace Lily. With peaceful blooms and curved leaves, it’s easy to see why these are so popular.
- Burro’s Tail (sedum morganianum). Beautiful in a hanging basket, burro’s tail features leaves that can grow up to three feet! Just make sure it’s exposed to sunlight as it’s native to Mexico.
- Jade Plant. This plant boasts thick stems and thick, glossy leaves tinged with red. Plus it’s easy to care for and easy to find at your local nursery.
- Heart-Leaf Philodendron. Perfect for romantics, these easy-to-care-for plants have leaves shaped like hearts. Your love will never die, and neither will your plant! Next Valentine’s Day gift, perhaps?
- Snake plant. If you’ve had no success with houseplants other than fake plants, give snake plant a try. It is particularly hard to kill and has interesting, sword-shaped leaves.
Ready to take your plant game to the outside? Here are some low-maintenance plants that are perfect for your backyard. Also check out these no-fail garden plants for your region.