Houseplants 101: Going green

The devices that make modern life more convenient have some unpleasant side effects (hello, “tech neck” and eyestrain). David Domoney, author of My Houseplant Changed My Life, believes he knows the antidote. “Nurturing houseplants is a great way to give our bodies physical relief,” he says. Just start with a low-maintenance plant, and pay attention to these simple needs: 

Water the right way.

Rainwater or distilled are ideal, as tap water can contain chemicals that can hamper growth. The temperature matters, too: Water should be tepid, neither hot nor cold. 

Help plants breathe easy.

Surprise! Plants need dusting. Having clean leaves helps them engage in photosynthesis. If you have several plants, place them in the tub and give them a lukewarm shower. 

Pay attention to their diet.

Plants love nitrogen, which is found in coffee. Pour in a bit of cooled, watered-down coffee (no cream or sugar). You can also supplement with a fertilizer such as Miracle Gro.

Offer them “exercise.”

Even if you have the perfect spot for their desired level of light (found on the plant’s tag), you’ll want to turn them regularly so each and every leaf gets its moments in the sun.

Picking the perfect plant

Domoney’s book details 50 top plants for newbie gardeners, each with specific instructions and unique characteristics. Here are two:

Flaming sword

Patient plant parents will be rewarded with a dramatic red bract, a flower-like leaf that gives this plant its name. Place it in bright, indirect light, keep the center of the plant filled with water, and mist it now and then.

Aloe vera

The gel from this succulent has traditionally been used to soothe burns, bug bites, eczema, and stomach troubles. Another wonderful thing about succulents? They are low-maintenance. Just place them in a sunny spot, wet the soil thoroughly, then let it dry completely before watering again.