Best Indoor Plants for Small Spaces

I’ve always been a plant enthusiast, but my enthusiasm has often been thwarted by my lack of square footage. I mean, who hasn’t dreamed of having a lush, green oasis in their tiny studio apartment? But, let’s be real, most plants seem to require a football field’s worth of space to thrive. Or so I thought. After some digging (pun intended), I’ve discovered that there are plenty of plants that can flourish in even the smallest of spaces. In this post, I’ll share my top picks for indoor plants that’ll bring some much-needed greenery to your cozy abode, without taking over your entire living room.

Selecting the Right Plants

As I research into the world of indoor plants, I’ve come to realize that it’s not just about picking the prettiest ones or the ones that smell the nicest. Nope, it’s about finding the perfect match for your small space, and that requires some careful consideration.

Consider the Lighting

Consider this: most plants need some form of light to survive, but not all plants require the same amount of light. Some plants thrive in bright, direct sunlight, while others prefer shadier conditions. When deciding on plants for your small space, think about the amount of natural light your space receives. Do you have a sunny windowsill or a dimly lit corner?

If you’re dealing with low light conditions, don’t worry! There are plenty of plants that can tolerate (or even prefer) low light. Chinese Evergreen, Pothos, and ZZ Plant are all great options for low-light spaces. On the other hand, if you’ve got a bright spot, plants like Succulents, Cacti, and Bromeliads will love basking in the sun.

Think About Temperature and Humidity

Temperature and Humidity Guide

With temperature and humidity in mind, I like to think about the overall vibe I want to create in my small space. Do I want a tropical oasis or a desert retreat? Different plants thrive in different conditions, so it’s imperative to choose plants that fit your space’s unique environment.

A key thing to remember is that most houseplants prefer daytime temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and nighttime temperatures around 55-65°F (13-18°C). Some plants, like Ferns, love high humidity, while others, like Succulents, prefer dry air. By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to creating a happy, healthy plant family.

Top Picks for Small Spaces

There’s no need to sacrifice style for space when it comes to indoor plants. As someone who’s lived in their fair share of tiny apartments, I can attest that even the smallest of spaces can benefit from a little greenery. Here are my top picks for small spaces that’ll bring some life to your living room, kitchen, or office without taking over.

SNAKE PLANT: THE LOW-MAINTENANCE WONDER

Marvelous in its ability to thrive in low-light conditions, the snake plant is a wonder for those of us who don’t exactly have a green thumb. This stylish succulent can survive (and even flourish) with infrequent watering and minimal attention, making it perfect for busy people or those who tend to forget to water their plants (guilty as charged!). I’ve had my snake plant for months now, and it still looks as vibrant as the day I brought it home. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to propagate – simply snip off a leaf and plant it in some soil, and voilà! You’ve got a brand new snake plant to gift to a friend or add to your growing collection.

POTHOS: THE TRAILING TREASURE

Pothos, oh pothos – how I adore thee! This trailing treasure is a masterclass in elegance, with its delicate vines and heart-shaped leaves that seem to dance down any surface they’re given. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering and a spot with bright, indirect light. The pothos is also a chameleon of sorts, adapting seamlessly to its surroundings. Want to train it to climb up a trellis? Done. Prefer to let it cascade down a shelf? Easy peasy. It’s the ultimate versatile houseplant, and I’m obsessed. The real magic happens when you start to train your pothos to climb. Use a trellis or a stake to guide the vines upwards, and watch as it transforms into a stunning living wall. Trust me, the Instagram likes will roll in.

ZZ PLANT: THE LAZY PERSON’S DELIGHT

Pothos may be the trailing treasure, but the ZZ plant is the ultimate lazy person’s delight. This low-maintenance superstar can survive in low-light conditions, tolerate neglect, and still manage to look fabulous. It’s like the plant equivalent of a good pair of sweatpants – comfortable, reliable, and always up for a Netflix binge. I’ve had my ZZ plant for years now, and I can confidently say it’s the most laid-back plant I’ve ever met. Water it once a week, maybe once a fortnight if you’re feeling extra lazy, and it’ll reward you with sleek, glossy leaves that seem to glow in the dark. Delight in its simplicity, because that’s what the ZZ plant is all about. No fuss, no muss – just a beautiful, easy-to-care-for plant that’ll bring a touch of greenery to even the most inhospitable spaces.

Caring for Your New Friends

Despite the initial excitement of bringing home a new indoor plant, it’s easy to forget that they require some TLC to thrive. Don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through the basics of plant parenthood, so you can enjoy the many benefits of having greenery in your small space.

Watering Wisdom

Friends, let’s talk about watering. It’s a crucial part of plant care, but it’s also where many of us go wrong. I’ve been guilty of overwatering, and trust me, it’s not a pretty sight. The key is to find that sweet spot where your plant is hydrated but not drowning. Check the soil daily, and only water when it feels dry to the touch. A good rule of thumb is to water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. And remember, it’s better to err on the side of caution – underwatering is always easier to recover from than overwatering. For plants that prefer high humidity, like ferns or peace lilies, you can also try misting them with a water spray bottle. Just be sure not to get waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. I like to think of it as giving my plants a refreshing facial – they love it, and it’s a great way to add some extra moisture to the air.

Fertilizing Fundamentals

To keep your plants happy and healthy, you’ll need to fertilize them regularly. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Fertilizer? Isn’t that just for gardens?” But trust me, your indoor plants need a little extra nutrition to thrive. Think of fertilizer like a vitamin supplement for your plants – it provides vital nutrients that might be lacking in the soil. I like to use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that’s specifically formulated for indoor plants. Just follow the instructions on the label, and you’ll be good to go. Keep in mind, it’s always better to start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed – you don’t want to overwhelm your plant with too many nutrients. Understanding the different types of fertilizers can be overwhelming, but don’t worry – it’s not rocket science. Just look for a fertilizer that’s labeled as “balanced” or “all-purpose,” and you’ll be fine. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can always try making your own fertilizer using things like coffee grounds or eggshells. Happy planting!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Keep in mind that even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when caring for your indoor plants. Trust me, I’ve been there too! As a fellow plant enthusiast, I’ve learned the hard way that some mistakes can be detrimental to your plants’ health. So, let’s explore the most common mistakes to avoid when it comes to indoor plants in small spaces.

Overwatering: The Silent Killer

Killer instincts aren’t just for thriller novels; they’re also imperative for detecting overwatering. You see, when you water your plants too much, the roots start to rot, and the plant slowly suffocates. It’s a sneaky killer because the signs aren’t always obvious – until it’s too late. I’ve lost count of how many plants I’ve sent to the great beyond due to overwatering. Don’t be like me; make sure to check the soil regularly and avoid watering on a schedule.

One way to avoid overwatering is to stick your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s already moist, wait another day or two before watering again. It’s better to err on the side of caution and underwater slightly than to drown your poor plant.

Underwatering: The Slow Death

To the untrained eye, underwatering might seem like a minor issue, but trust me, it’s a slow and painful death for your plant. When you neglect to water your plant regularly, the soil dries out, and the roots start to shrivel up. It’s like watching a plant version of the Hunger Games – only instead of fighting for survival, your plant is fighting for a drink of water.

Underwatering can be especially problematic in small spaces where the air tends to be drier. This means your plant will need more frequent watering to compensate for the lack of moisture in the air. Be sure to monitor your plant’s leaves; if they start to wilt or turn yellow, it’s likely a sign that it needs more water.

This is especially important for plants like succulents and cacti, which are prone to underwatering. These plants store water in their leaves, so they need less frequent watering, but when they do need it, they need it badly. So, don’t be afraid to give them a good soaking every now and then – just be sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.

To wrap up

I’ve come to realize that even the most spatially-challenged among us (ahem, me) can bring a touch of greenery into our lives. And trust me, it’s worth it – not only do these plants purify the air and improve the aesthetic of your tiny abode, but they also provide a sense of accomplishment when you manage not to kill them (no small feat, if you ask me). From the low-maintenance ZZ Plant to the stylish Snake Plant, there’s an indoor plant out there for every small space dweller.

So, go ahead and give one (or five) of these plants a try. Your wallet, your allergies, and your Instagram followers will thank you. And who knows, you might just find yourself transformed into a full-blown plant lady (or gentleman) – I mean, it’s happened to the best of us. Happy planting, and may your small space be filled with life, laughter, and a healthy dose of oxygen!