How to Keep Houseplants Alive: Top Tips for Beginners

Houseplants bring life, colour, and a sense of calm into our homes. But if you’ve ever struggled with drooping leaves, yellowing stems, or plants that seem to give up on you, don’t worry—you’re not alone! With a few simple tips and tricks, you can turn your home into a lush indoor jungle and keep your plants thriving for years to come.

1. Choose the Right Plant for the Right Place

Not all plants enjoy the same environment. Some love bright, direct sunlight, while others prefer shady corners. Before you buy, check the plant’s light and humidity needs. For example:

• Bright light: Succulents, cacti, fiddle leaf figs
• Low light: Snake plants, pothos, ZZ plants
• High humidity: Ferns, calatheas, peace lilies

Placing the right plant in the right spot sets it up for success from day one.

2. Don’t Overwater

Overwatering is the number one killer of houseplants. Most plants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. A simple trick: stick your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle—if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Always empty excess water from saucers or pots to avoid soggy roots.

3. Use the Correct Pot and Soil

Healthy roots mean a healthy plant. Make sure your pot has drainage holes, and choose a soil mix suited to your plant:

• Cacti & succulents: Well-draining, sandy mix
• Tropical plants: Rich, moisture-retentive soil
• Orchids: Loose bark mix

Repotting every year or two also refreshes the soil and gives your plant more room to grow.

Like plants, we thrive when placed in the right environment, given space to grow, and cared for with patience.

4. Feed Them Regularly

Just like us, plants need nutrients to thrive. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser every 2–4 weeks. In autumn and winter, most plants slow their growth, so reduce or stop feeding.

5. Keep an Eye on Humidity and Temperature

Central heating and air conditioning can dry out the air indoors, which isn’t ideal for many plants. Simple solutions include:

• Grouping plants together to raise local humidity
• Using a pebble tray with water beneath pots
• Mist leaves lightly (but avoid overdoing it)

Keep plants away from draughts, radiators, or cold windowsills.

6. Clean the Leaves

Dust can block sunlight from reaching your plant’s leaves. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth every few weeks. Not only will they look shinier, but they’ll also photosynthesise better.

7. Check for Pests Early

Tiny bugs like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can cause big problems. Regularly inspect leaves—especially the undersides—for signs of pests. If you spot any, isolate the plant and treat quickly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

8. Get to Know Your Plants

Every plant has its own personality. Spend time observing them—are the leaves perky after watering? Do they droop when too dry? Learning their signals helps you care for them better and builds confidence as a plant parent.

Final Thoughts

Thriving houseplants don’t require a green thumb—just a little knowledge, patience, and care. Start small, experiment with different species, and celebrate each new leaf as a sign you’re on the right track. Before long, you’ll have a happy indoor jungle to enjoy all year round.