For those who love the aesthetic and mood-boosting benefits of houseplants but struggle to keep up with regular care, there’s good news. Experts from Beards & Daisies have compiled a list of seven plants that can survive weeks of neglect, making them perfect for busy individuals or frequent travelers.
Snake Plant (“Mother-in-Law’s Tongue”)
This architectural plant is renowned for its resilience. Its thick, upright leaves store water, allowing it to go two to three weeks without watering. Snake plants thrive in low light and are ideal for apartments or offices. An added bonus is their air-purifying qualities.
ZZ Plant
A favorite among frequent travelers, the ZZ plant is incredibly low maintenance. Its waxy, oval-shaped leaves store moisture, enabling it to survive on monthly watering. It thrives in low-light environments and is highly tolerant of neglect.
Pothos
With its cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves, pothos is both beautiful and forgiving. This adaptable plant can survive inconsistent watering and thrives in both bright and low light. Before going away, give it a thorough watering to ensure it stays healthy.
Spider Plant
Spider plants are known for their long arching leaves and baby “spiderettes.” They can handle short periods of drought and recover quickly from neglect. These plants need watering every one to two weeks and can grow in bright indirect light or low light.
Cast Iron Plant
Living up to its name, the cast iron plant is nearly unkillable. Native to the forest floors of Japan and Taiwan, it thrives in low light and poor soil. It requires watering every two to three weeks and is perfect for dim corners of your home.
Succulents and Cacti
These desert dwellers are among the most popular low-maintenance plants. They store water in their leaves or stems, allowing them to go weeks without watering. Ensure they are in well-draining soil and placed near a bright window.
Peace Lily
Peace lilies are forgiving if you occasionally forget to water them. They will dramatically droop when thirsty, making it easy to tell when they need water. These plants have beautiful white blooms and excellent air-purifying qualities.
Pro Tips for Plant Care Before Traveling:
- Hydrate Before You Go: Water your plants thoroughly a day before departure.
- Use Self-Watering Systems: Options range from DIY bottle spikes to stylish ceramic globes.
- Group for Humidity: Cluster plants together to create a micro-humidity zone.
- Mulch the Soil: A layer of pebbles or moss helps retain moisture.
- Move Them Out of Direct Sunlight: Reduces the water evaporation rate.
These plants offer a perfect solution for those who want to enjoy the benefits of houseplants without the constant worry of maintenance.
