Bringing home your first plant is an exciting step! Whether you're adding a touch of greenery to your home or hoping to build a thriving indoor jungle, caring for plants requires a bit of knowledge and patience. As a first-time plant parent, you might worry about overwatering, under-watering, or choosing the wrong plant for your space. But don’t worry — this guide will help you navigate the essentials of plant care and set you up for success.
Easy-to-care plants
Not all plants require the same level of care. As a beginner, it’s best to choose low-maintenance plants that can tolerate a bit of neglect. Here are some great starter plants:
Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Can survive with little light and infrequent watering.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Grows quickly, tolerates low light, and forgives irregular watering.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Almost indestructible and thrives in low light.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Adapts well to different conditions and purifies air.
Starting with a resilient plant helps you gain confidence before moving on to more delicate species.
Light Needs
Light is one of the most crucial factors for plant health. Before choosing a plant, observe how much natural light your home receives and where.
Bright, direct light: South-facing windows get the most sunlight and are great for succulents, cacti, and fiddle-leaf figs.
Bright, indirect light: East or west-facing windows provide gentle sunlight, perfect for pothos, monsteras, and ferns.
Low light: North-facing rooms or shaded areas work well for snake plants, ZZ plants, and peace lilies.
If your space lacks natural light, consider grow lights to supplement your plant’s needs.
Don’t overwater
One of the biggest mistakes new plant parents make is overwatering. Many plants prefer their soil to dry out between waterings. A general rule of thumb:
Stick your finger an inch into the soil — if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Use pots with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
Avoid watering on a strict schedule; instead, adjust based on the plant’s needs and season.
Some plants, like succulents and cacti, need very little water, while tropical plants like ferns prefer consistently moist soil. Research each plant’s specific requirements.
Pot and soil
Not all pots and soil mixes are the same. To help your plant thrive:
Pots: Use breathable pots like terracotta or ceramic, which allow moisture to evaporate and prevent root rot. Ensure they have drainage holes.
Soil: Choose the right soil mix — succulents need sandy, fast-draining soil, while tropical plants prefer moisture-retaining potting mix.
Repotting is also essential as plants grow. If roots start poking out of the drainage holes or growth slows down, it may be time for a larger pot.
Feed your plants
Just like people, plants need food! Fertiliser provides essential nutrients, but overfeeding can do more harm than good. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Use a balanced, all-purpose fertiliser for most houseplants.
Fertilise during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows down.
Avoid over-fertilising, which can lead to burned roots and leaf damage.
Each plant has unique feeding needs, so check the recommendations for your specific variety.
Monitor humidity
Indoor plants, especially tropical ones, love humidity. If your home is dry (especially in winter), consider these tips:
Mist plants occasionally, but avoid overdoing it as stagnant moisture can lead to mold.
Use a humidity tray — place a shallow dish of water and pebbles under your plant.
Consider a humidifier for plants that need consistent moisture, like ferns and calatheas.
Pest check
Even well-cared-for plants can attract pests like spider mites, aphids, and fungus gnats. Signs of an infestation include yellowing leaves, webbing, or tiny bugs on the soil or leaves. To prevent and treat pests:
Inspect new plants before bringing them home.
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth regularly.
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.
Rotate plants
Plants naturally grow towards the light. To ensure even growth, rotate your plant every few weeks so all sides receive equal exposure. This prevents lopsided growth and keeps your plant looking symmetrical and full.
Be patient
Plants don’t grow overnight. Some species, like pothos, grow quickly, while others, like fiddle-leaf figs, take time to mature. Instead of worrying about immediate results, focus on consistency in care. Celebrate small wins, like a new leaf unfurling, and remember that even brown leaves are part of the learning process.
Enjoy the journey
Caring for plants isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s a rewarding experience that connects you with nature. Whether you start with one plant or build an entire collection, the joy of seeing your greenery thrive makes the effort worthwhile. By following these tips, you’ll set yourself up for success as a plant parent. Happy growing!
(Sujal Chawathe is a CA by education but a gardener at heart. Her venture Indoor Greens helps urban offices and homes, add and maintain plants)
