Lazy Plant Lover? Try These Hacks

Last updated on October 14th, 2024

So, you love the idea of having a jungle-esque apartment, but your plants never seem to make it past the first few weeks? Maybe you’re too busy to keep up with the watering schedule, or perhaps the idea of fiddling with plant food and lighting setups just isn’t your vibe. Don’t worry—you’re not alone!

The good news is that being a lazy plant lover doesn’t mean you can’t have beautiful, thriving plants. With a few clever hacks, you can keep your indoor greenery looking lush with minimal effort. Ready to turn that black thumb into a green one? Let’s get started!

1. Start Smart, Not Hard

First things first—start by choosing the right plants for your space. Not all plants are created equal, especially when it comes to light and water needs. Pick varieties that are known to thrive in the specific light conditions of your home. Place your plants where they’re most likely to thrive and give them some time to settle in before considering any re-potting. Oh, and don’t forget the drainage! A little hack: place pebbles at the bottom of your pots and cover drainage holes with coffee filters to keep the soil in place and your floors clean.

2. Watering Woes? There’s an App for That

One of the most common reasons plants meet an untimely demise is improper watering. Whether you tend to overwater or forget altogether, there’s a simple solution—technology! Set reminders on your phone for watering days, and before you reach for the watering can, do the “finger test.” Stick your finger about two to three centimeters into the soil; if it feels moist, hold off on watering. If it’s dry, go ahead and give your plant a drink.

3. Color-Coded Health Check

Did you know your plant’s health can often be determined by its color? Healthy plants typically have vibrant, green foliage. Yellowing leaves can be a sign of insufficient light, while browning leaves may indicate that your plant is getting a bit too much sun. Keep an eye on your plant’s leaves and adjust its location accordingly.

4. Chill Out with Ice Cubes

Got plants in hard-to-reach places? No problem! Instead of dragging out a watering can, try placing ice cubes at the base of these plants. As the ice melts slowly, it provides a steady, controlled supply of water, which is especially great for hanging plants and delicate varieties like orchids. Just be sure to avoid using ice-cold water directly on the plants to prevent them from going into shock.

5. Breathe Easy with Humidity Hacks

Most indoor plants thrive in humid environments, but that doesn’t mean you need to turn your home into a sauna. To boost humidity, group your plants together so they can benefit from each other’s moisture. Alternatively, place a damp sponge at the bottom of the pots or water-filled containers around the room to create a more plant-friendly environment.

6. Waste Not, Water Not

Your tap water might not be enough to keep your plants thriving, especially during growing months. Instead of reaching for expensive plant food, try feeding your plants with leftover water from cooking veggies—just make sure there’s no salt in it. For an extra boost, consider using filtered water or collect rainwater to keep your plants happy and healthy.

7. Light It Up (Or Fake It)

If you’ve got a room that doesn’t get much natural light, choose plants with dark foliage that can tolerate low-light conditions. Need a little extra help? Place a mirror underneath the pots to reflect more light onto the plants. For the truly light-deprived areas, opt for full-spectrum fluorescent bulbs that mimic natural light. And hey, if all else fails, there’s no shame in faking it with some realistic faux plants!

8. Keep It Clean and Simple

Dust isn’t just bad for your furniture—it’s bad for your plants too. When dust settles on leaves, it blocks their ability to photosynthesize. Make it a habit to gently wipe down your plants with a moist cloth, supporting each leaf as you clean. And remember, sometimes less is more. Overwatering is the number one killer of houseplants, so if your plants are doing well, give yourself a pat on the back and just let them be.

Last Words: Plant Parenthood Made Easy

Being a plant lover doesn’t have to be a full-time job, especially if you’re armed with the right hacks. From smart watering tricks to clever humidity boosts, these tips are designed to help you enjoy the beauty of indoor plants without all the fuss. So go ahead, give these hacks a try, and watch your home transform into a green oasis with minimal effort. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out more of our lazy plant lover tips over at the Homebliss blog. Because hey, even a little effort can go a long way!