Don’t have green fingers, you can still have living plants…
With summer just around the corner, vacations, weekend getaways, and extended holidays are calling. But for plant lovers, hitting the road can come with a twinge of guilt. Will your indoor garden survive while you’re off soaking up the sun?
The good news: you don’t have to choose between your love of travel and your love of greenery. Whether you’re heading to the beach for a week or exploring a new city, there are plenty of resilient houseplants that thrive with minimal attention. Plant experts, Beards & Daisies reveal to ATV Today Gardening the ultimate summer guide to plants that won’t mind being left behind.
Your Ultimate Guide to Low-Maintenance Houseplants
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) – Also known as “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,” this architectural plant is practically indestructible. Snake plants store water in their thick, upright leaves, making them drought-resistant. They can go two to three weeks without water and tolerate low light, ideal for apartments or offices.
Care Highlights:
- Water: Every 2–3 weeks
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Bonus: Purifies indoor air
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – The ZZ Plant is a favourite among frequent travelers. Its waxy, oval-shaped leaves store moisture, and it thrives in low-light environments. Even if forgotten for a month, the ZZ will still look healthy and full.
Care Highlights:
- Water: Once a month
- Light: Low to medium light
- Bonus: Tolerates neglect like a champ
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – With cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves, Pothos is both beautiful and forgiving. It’s extremely adaptable and can survive inconsistent watering and various lighting conditions. If you’re going away, just give it a good soak before you leave.
Care Highlights:
- Water: When the soil feels dry
- Light: Low to bright indirect light
- Bonus: Fast-growing and easy to propagate
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – This resilient plant is known for its long, arching leaves and baby “spiderettes.” It can handle short periods of drought and bounces back quickly from neglect.
Care Highlights:
- Water: Every 1–2 weeks
- Light: Bright indirect to low light
- Bonus: Non-toxic and pet-friendly
5. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) – True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is nearly unkillable. Native to the forest floors of Japan and Taiwan, it thrives in low light and poor soil, and it’s not fussy about watering.
Care Highlights:
- Water: Every 2–3 weeks
- Light: Low to moderate light
- Bonus: Great for dim corners
6. Succulents & Cacti – Succulents and cacti are nature’s desert dwellers. They store water in their leaves or stems and can go weeks without a drink. Just be sure they’re in well-draining soil and placed near a bright window.
Care Highlights:
- Water: Every 3–4 weeks
- Light: Bright light or direct sun
- Bonus: Huge variety of shapes and sizes
7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) – While it appreciates regular watering, the Peace Lily is forgiving if you forget now and then. It droops dramatically when thirsty, making it easy to read, and perks back up after a drink.
Care Highlights:
- Water: Weekly or when drooping
- Light: Low to medium indirect light
- Bonus: Beautiful white blooms and air-purifying qualities
Pro Plant Parent Tips Before You Travel:
- Hydrate Before You Go: Water your plants thoroughly a day before departure.
- Use Self-Watering Systems: Options range from DIY bottle spikes to stylish ceramic globes.
- Group for Humidity: Cluster plants together to create a micro-humidity zone.
- Mulch the Soil: A layer of pebbles or moss helps retain moisture.
- Move Them Out of Direct Sunlight: Reduces the water evaporation rate.
