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One of the most fantastic things about houseplants is the sheer variety that you can find for your home. Different species have different care needs, and it's guaranteed that you can find the perfect plant for your unique home environment.A lot of houseplants produce blooms, but String of Bananas produces flowers that smell like nutmeg whereas a Begonia maculata produces flowers that don’t smell like anything at all. Variety is the spice of life- the keystone of it, really. It’s also the spice of houseplants!Because there’s so much variety within houseplant species, especially here at Canopi, it makes finding many houseplants that suit your personality incredibly easy. If you don’t know your houseplant personality, go ahead and take our quiz to find out. If you already know you’re a laid-back plant parent looking for easy-to-care-for houseplants- then this article is for you!What makes a houseplant low maintenance? After all, for the most part, you only need to water most plants once a week and feed them in the spring and summer. It’s not like they require a song and a dance each day to keep from dying (though if one did, I would absolutely buy it).&nbsp;Some plants though, are so tolerant that they will survive and forgive you if you forget to water them for weeks. They will say “this is great!” to your dimly lit bedroom and “I like this old pot” to one they’ve been in for five years. Now that is low maintenance.&nbsp;This is our list of incredibly laid back, low-maintenance houseplants

<h2>ZZ Plant</h2>Coming in at #1 on our list is the super chill and incredibly tolerant ZZ plant. This beautiful plant is native to Eastern Africa and can be found growing in forests and dry grasslands. ZZ plants are rhizomatous, and their rhizomes store water. This makes this plant perfect for those who often forget to water their plants.&nbsp;ZZ plants are also perfect for plant parents with low light or few windows in their homes. These little plants can’t handle full sun, as they will scorch their gorgeous green leaves. Don’t worry about taking extra measures to give these plants more light- they just don’t need it!Last, but not least, ZZ plants are low feeders and they only need to be fed once a month in the spring and summer. You don’t need to worry about what will happen if you forget to fertilize your ZZ plant. These incredibly low-maintenance plants will be just fine if you forget to feed them!

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ZZ Plants

<h2>Pothos</h2>Pothos plants are another perfect option for those who are forgetful waterers or who live with very little natural light. Not only do these decorative, vining plants prefer to dry out between waterings, but they will also communicate clearly to you when it is time for a drink.Then perk right up again after watering.Sometimes one of the most frustrating things about caring for houseplants is being certain it’s time to water, and not every species will use their words and speak up when they are in need of hydration before it's too late. With Pothos plants, however, they will clearly let you know they want to be hydrated by curling their leaves and drooping, then spring back to health.Pothos plants can live in a wide variety of light conditions. The only light that will truly make them unhappy or hurt them is direct light, making these plants perfect for low to medium-light spaces. I personally know someone who keeps their pothos in a room that never receives light and it is still alive. Growing slowly, but still alive.&nbsp;

Pothos Plants

<h2>Snake Plants</h2>Snake plants, also called Mother-in-Law’s-Tongue are great houseplants for laid-back plant parents for a number of reasons. For one thing, they can tolerate all sorts of lighting conditions making them easy and carefree to place around your home. From bright light to shade, these hardy little succulents will probably be just fine no matter where you put them.&nbsp;Being succulents, Snake plants store water in their bodies and therefore are a great plant for forgetful waterers. They prefer to have their soil dry out completely between waterings, so go ahead and relax when it comes to any kind of schedule for these guys.&nbsp;Another reason that these plants are low maintenance would be that they enjoy being rootbound and only need to be repotted once every 3-5 years. Don’t worry about having to buy a new pot and get dirt everywhere each year- these plants are just fine hanging out in the pot you bought them in for years to come!

Snake Plants

<h2>Aloe Vera</h2>Not only is Aloe Vera generously low maintenance, but it also generously provides gifts to its caretaker! From healing burns to treating acne, fresh aloe has <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-use-aloe-vera-plant#harvesting-the-plant" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">many uses.</a> Just like Snake plants, Aloe Vera plants are succulents and store water in their plump foliage. If you forget to water your Aloe Vera, you won’t have to worry about it going thirsty.&nbsp;This is a great low-maintenance plant for anyone with a bit more light in their living space. All of the plants on our list up until now have been pretty shade tolerant, but Aloe Vera is one low-maintenance plant that prefers bright, indirect sunlight. If you have a lot of natural light in your home, but don’t want to spend a lot of time on plant care- then Aloe Vera is the plant for you!Remembering to fertilize plants once a month during their growing season of spring and summer can be difficult even for super-involved plant parents. This is the time of year when most of us are out of the house, not cooped up inside with our plants The definition of low feeders, Aloe Vera plants only need to be fertilized once a year in the spring or summer making them perfect for busy, outdoor enthusiasts.

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4 Super Low-Maintenance Plants for Laid-Back Plant Parents

Deciding to purchase a new houseplant can bring up many questions.&nbsp;“Do I have enough light in my home for this plant?”“Will I have enough time in my busy schedule to water this plant?”And, for some plant owners:“Is this plant toxic to my beloved pets?”There are certain species of plants that, if ingested, can cause adverse reactions and possibly death to humans and pets. While we humans will understand that we probably shouldn’t nibble on our Aglaonemas for a light snack, our little furry family members might not grasp that concept. It’s important to check if a plant is toxic before purchasing if you have pets at home.&nbsp;While we would love to be able to be with our pets all day, this is usually not possible. So bringing home a plant that you would have to monitor your pet around 24/7 because it’s toxic to them is a little too stressful/impractical to attempt.&nbsp;This list of nontoxic plants is for those looking to purchase a plant that won’t stress them out if they find their cat, dog, bunny, or mini-horse taking a little bite.&nbsp;<h2>Calathea</h2>First up on our list is the entire genus of Calatheas - pet-friendly prayer plants! Calatheas are pet-safe plants and are an excellent choice for anyone looking to add beauty to their home and keep their furry friends safe.&nbsp;Calatheas are not only visually stunning plants- but they also will put on a show for you each day! They’re called prayer plants due to their leaves folding up in the night when the sun disappears, and unfurling again in the morning when it rises.&nbsp;These fast-growing plants are also relatively easy to care for. They dislike direct sunlight, so put them in a spot with filtered sunlight or hang up some curtains to protect their gorgeous foliage.&nbsp;Calathea’s like their soil to stay moist, but can’t stand their roots being soggy and waterlogged. To achieve this balance, give them a little water regularly when you feel the first few inches of soil become dry. This way you can keep them hydrated without being too bogged down deeper in their pots.&nbsp;

Calathea Collection

<h2>Hoya</h2>Not only do hoyas come in a stunning variety of species, but they are also completely safe for your pets to be around! From Hoya Australis to Hoya Wayetti Variegata, if you bring home a Hoya you can be sure that your little furry friends are safe in its company.&nbsp;Hoyas are also remarkably easy to care for. Being semi-succulents, Hoyas don’t mind if you are late to a watering date. They store their hydration in their evergreen foliage, which can also help you figure out when it's time to water if you’re unsure. If you can fold the plump leaves of a Hoya together- essentially creating a taco shape- then their hydration levels are low and they need watering.&nbsp;Hoyas aren’t too picky about light, either. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight so place them within a few feet of an east or south-facing window to help them thrive. They won’t mind lower light levels, but they definitely won’t grow as fast in shadier conditions.&nbsp;Hoyas are also very low feeders- only needing to be fed once every few months in the spring or summer. Low maintenance, beautiful, and safe for pets- Hoya’s are the total package!

Hoya Collection

<h2>Pachira aquatica (Money Tree)</h2>Pachira aquatica also called a Money Tree, is another wonderfully popular option when it comes to pet-friendly plant options. Their unique braided trunks and five-leafed stems are a wonderful addition to any room. Not to mention that they are an excellent long-term design choice, as an indoor Money Tree can grow up to eight feet tall over its life.&nbsp;Pachira aquatica is a tropical wetland tree from South and Central America. It likes to be well watered and then allowed to thoroughly dry out. Give it a good dose of water every week in the spring and summer, and every other week in the fall and winter.&nbsp;As far as light goes, these stunning trees like to be in bright, indirect light. I keep mine about five feet away from a south-facing window and directly next to a west-facing window and it is very happy with this arrangement. You can also filter your light with curtains or place your Pachira next to a window with a large, shady tree outside.&nbsp;

<h2>Peperomias</h2>If you love the unique textures and hues of the Peperomia genus and are looking for a pet-friendly plant- good news! The entire Peperomia genus is completely safe for pets. No need to worry if find Spot nibbling on your Peperomia Quito- well, maybe you should worry for the plant!There are over 1,000 species of Peperomia- so don’t worry about not being able to find one that you like. With so many choices available, it’s almost impossible not to find the Peperomia for you.&nbsp;Peperomias are relatively easy to care for and are communicative when it comes to knowing when it’s time to water. If you notice that your Peperomia’s leaves are drooping or curling, then it’s time to give your plant a drink. Water your Peperomia once a week, but hold off if the surface of your soil is still wet.&nbsp;Peperomias like to be put in bright, indirect sunlight or medium light. Anything lower than this and their gorgeous foliage begins to fade. A tragedy, indeed! Because of their delicate leaves, keep them out of direct sunlight.&nbsp;

Peperomia Plants

<h2>Phlebosia Nicholas Diamond Fern</h2>Looking for a truly one-of-a-kind pet-friendly plant for your one-of-a-kind pet? Allow me to tell you about the incredible Phlebosia Nicholas Diamond fern! This herbaceous hybrid is a cross between a Pyrrosia lingua ‘Cristata’ and a Phlebodium aureum ‘Mandaianum’ and is the only species of its genus thus far.&nbsp;Phlebosia Nicholas Diamond is a footed fern with adorable, fuzzy rhizomes that peek out the top of its soil. Its fronds are verdant and wavy and grow from long, thin stems out of its little, fuzzy feet.&nbsp;Along with being adorable, Phlebosia Nicholas Diamond is fast-growing and cold and drought tolerant. No one could ever accuse this unique fern of being all style and no substance!Most ferns are not very drought tolerant, which is just one lovely jewel in this fern's crown. Water your Nicholas Diamond when the first few inches of soil become dry. To help with moisture retention, make sure that you are placing this fern in the right light it needs.&nbsp;Phlebosia Nicholas Diamon likes bright, filtered sunlight. Place it next to a window with curtains or a tree outside, or a few feet away from a window where some of the sunlight can diffuse before hitting this exceptional fern.&nbsp;

<h2>Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)</h2>Need a pop of color in your home? Bright colors in the natural environment usually signal toxicity or danger- but not in the case of the Polka Dot plant! Native to Madagascar, these flowering plants are completely non-toxic to people and pets!Polka Dot plants can grow tall and leggy, so it’s recommended to pinch them back as you would with basil to encourage bushier growth. If you like plant projects (who doesn’t?!) then you can use those clippings to propagate even more pet-friendly Hypoestes.&nbsp;Their red, pink, or white spattered leaves will dramatically droop when the plant needs water- making it a usefully communicative plant for owners. Give them medium to bright, indirect light to keep them happy and thriving.&nbsp;If you place your Polka Dot plant in lower light conditions, your plant will still be able to grow. You might begin to notice, though, that its gorgeous variegated leaves are fading. Keep your Hypoestes phyllostachya happy and vibrant by keeping it in the right light conditions and watering when it tells you it’s time to.&nbsp;

<h2>Spider Plant and Curly Spider Plant (Chlorophytum)</h2>The gorgeous Spider plant and Curly Spider plant variety are non-toxic to people and their animals, making them a wonderful choice for pet owners. If you’re a cat owner, a word of caution: apparently spider plants can have the same effect on cats as catnip. If you want to keep your cat from zoomy-zooming 24/7, then maybe keep your spider plant out of reach of your feline friend.&nbsp;Spider plants are native to tropical regions of Africa, and so they like their soil to be consistently moist. They are pretty flexible, however, and won’t mind being left to dry out completely between waterings.&nbsp;Spider plants are fans of moderate light, so they are ideal for north-facing windows. Since bright light will burn their beautiful green and white leaves make sure to place them a few feet away from any window with bright, direct sunlight.&nbsp;One of the coolest things about Spider plants is just how generous they are with their pups. Spider pups are tiny little Spider plants that your plant will begin producing off of a long stem called a runner.Once these pups grow long enough nodes, you can cut them from the runners and plant them. Free Spider plants forever! Give them away to your friends and family with pets or start a collection of your own.&nbsp;

Spider Plants

<h2>Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe sanguinea tricolor)</h2>Does your pet dramatically beg to be fed? Cry and whine when it doesn’t get its way? Get an equally dramatic plant to keep them company!The Stromanthe Triostar is a gorgeous and vibrant plant that turns heads and won’t turn your pet's stomach if ingested. These tricolored beauties are non-toxic to people and pets, making them perfect for pet owners looking for a plant statement piece.&nbsp;Stromanthe Triostar loves moisture, so make sure to water it often. To keep it from becoming waterlogged, water only a bit at a time. This will allow your plant's roots to have plenty of oxygen and safeguard your plant from root rot.&nbsp;Keep your Stromanthe Triostar out of bright, direct sunlight as it will burn its vivid foliage. These lovely plants prefer medium to bright, indirect sunlight so place them a few feet back from a sunny window or hang up some curtains.&nbsp;

As you can see, there are numerous amazing species to choose from when looking for pet-friendly plants. This has just been a profile of the eight that I wanted to nerd out about the most, but there are even more available on our website! Make sure and click the “Pet Friendly” filter on our search page to see them all!

Pet-Friendly Houseplants to Add to Your Home

The time has come.&nbsp;Roots are growing out of your plant’s pot’s drainage holes. Pushing up through the soil. You’ve noticed your plant's stopped growing. Maybe your pot seems to be expanding like something is trying to bust out from the inside.&nbsp;These are the undeniable signs that your plant has outgrown its pot and its time to give it a new, slightly bigger home.&nbsp;Re-potting can seem daunting for a number of reasons. For many plant owners, this could mean they will need to purchase their first bag of potting mix. Others will worry about transplant shock or if this is even the right season to be repotting their plant. Some plant owners will be wondering what size of pot they need to purchase to place their plants into.Successfully re-potting your plant is possible- many have achieved this before you and many more will after you have. The key to a successful re-potting event is to understand the ins and outs before you loosen up that rootball. This article will cover everything you need to know to stick the repotting landing like a Gold Medalist in the Plantlympics.&nbsp;When to Repot Your Plant(s)The opening of this article went over some telltale signs that its time to repot your plant, but it was rather dramatic so allow me to wipe the stage makeup from my face and go over them again.&nbsp;If you notice that roots are growing out of the drainage holes of your plant’s pot, it’s a pretty good sign that there’s just not enough room for them in there anymore. Sometimes you will also notice roots pushing up through the soil searching for more room, and this can be another sign it’s time to size up.&nbsp;It should be noted that some plants like Ficus and Philodendron plants have aerial roots that are always growing up through the soil. Don’t worry if you see these, they are completely normal and not a sign to repot.&nbsp;Another sign your plant needs a new home is that it's become slow growing. If the roots are compacted because they don’t have enough room, then they obviously can’t do their jobs properly and help your plant grow. Also look out for top-heavy plants that are easily knocked over and quick drying soil that can’t hold water as it used to as more telltale signs to repot.&nbsp;Another good mention here is time. Most plants don’t need to be repotted more than once every 12-18 months, so keep an eye on when you bought your plant or last repotted it. Some plants like Snake plants can and should go even longer between repots, only needing new pots every 3-7 years.&nbsp;Choosing the Right Pot SizeIf you read nothing else of this article, please read this section! Not paying attention to the size of the pot you repot your plant into can severely put your plant at risk of root rot.&nbsp;When you repot your plants, make sure to repot them into pots that are only 1-2 sizes up in diameter from the pot they’re in now. I repeat through my megaphone:When you repot your plants, make sure to repot them into pots that are only 1-2 sizes up in diameter from the pot they’re in now.So if you are repotting a plant that has outgrown it’s 6” pot, you would ideally repot it into a 7” pot. You can repot it in an 8” pot, but anything larger than 8” can adversely affect your plant. How? Allow me to explain.&nbsp;If you did repot your plant that was in a 6” pot to a 10” pot, then you would need to use more soil in order to fill out your new 10” pot. The pot is wider and taller than what your plant needs, meaning you are going to have excess soil just sort of hanging around. When you water this soil, it means there will be excess water hanging around in all that excess soil.&nbsp;This will cause your plant’s root system to hang around in the extra moisture as well and this can lead to root rot over time. This is why it is so important to only repot your plants into pots that are 1-2 sizes larger than the one they are in now. Save that 10” planter for another year, and save your plant!Potting MixesNow that I’ve gotten off of my proper pot size soap box, let’s get into another possibly confusing factor of repotting: choosing the right potting mix.&nbsp;This doesn’t need to be a difficult step of the process, even if you’ve never purchased potting mix before. You can check out your plant's ideal soil type on your plant’s species page here on Canopi. It will break down the type of potting soil that you want to use, as well as any amendments that you should use to improve drainage or retain moisture.&nbsp;

Rooting for You Potting Mix

Transplant ShockAnother concern when repotting your plant can be the dreaded transplant shock. Transplant shock is the process of your plant adapting to its new surroundings, and can happen at many points in its life. When you get your plant in the mail, bring it home from the store, put it in a new area of your home, or give it a new pot, then it can take some time for your plant to get used to this change in environment.&nbsp;There are some things that help in minimizing transplant shock when repotting your plant. The first thing to do is to make sure that you are repotting at the right time of year. Most plants will do best if they are repotted in the springtime before their growing season really kicks off. It’s usually heavily discouraged to repot your plant in fall or winter, as your plant is already dormant and normally already trying to cope with a change in temperature and humidity.&nbsp;Remember to be gentle with your plant as you repot it, always repot during the day, and give your plant a drink of water after placing it into its new pot. These will also help make the transition easier for your plant. Make sure to only repot healthy plants. If you notice that your plant is struggling in any way, hold off on repotting until after the problem has been solved.&nbsp;Put That Plant in Its New Pot!﻿Now that we’ve gone over some basic components of repotting, it's time to talk about the act itself. If you’re repotting your plants inside, then you will probably want to lay something down like the Plant Caring Mat ($) from Generosa. This mat made of the second-life canvas will help you keep your floor and surroundings clean while you give your plant a new home.&nbsp;

Take your brand new potting mix and fill your new pot about a third of the way full. Next, remove your plant from its current pot and begin separating its roots from the surrounding soil. Take your fingers and use them to gently massage your plant’s root ball before placing it in the new pot. You can use your hands or an implement like the Wood Scoop ($) from Bali Harvest to fill the rest of your pot with your new potting mix.&nbsp;

After filling your pot, give your plant water and then allow it to completely drain before placing it on its tray or in its decorative pot.&nbsp;Et voila! You’ve just successfully repotted your plant. Pat yourself on the back, but maybe wash your hands first.&nbsp;As you can see, repotting your plant can be easy and worry- as long as you know some basic do’s and don’ts. So go forth armed with the information you learned in this article and repot with confidence!

Everything you need to know to repot a plant successfully

Everyone knows that life’s better with a friend- or two or three. And that sentiment rings true when it comes to your houseplants.&nbsp;Companion plants are plants that share similar soil types and care requirements and therefore make very good pot mates. Many plant parents find that potting plants together actually helps their plants to thrive.If you think about it, this makes a lot of sense when we consider the outdoor environments that plants naturally grow in. When plants grow in the wild, they are usually not isolated on their own. They are usually surrounded by other plants that thrive in the same conditions. Companion planting is a way to mimic your plant's original habitat by giving them soil mates.The first step in companion planting is to find a few plants that you know will successfully grow together. This will take a bit of research on your part but doesn't have to be difficult. Here on Canopi, you can actually search for plants by care requirements like water and light- which makes finding friends for your plants quick and easy.We're going to give you all the details on companion plants, and then show you an example of one that we planted as a guide. Here’s how to find out which plants you can pair together and then an example of how to get it done.&nbsp;ResearchYou can start by researching plants that you are interested in already to see if they have compatible care requirements. Similarities when it comes to watering requirements, soil type and pH, and native habitat and origin will all help you to find matches for your plant.As mentioned above, there are ways to search for plants with similar care requirements on our website. For a short list of examples, here are some plants that play well together are:<ul><li>Snake plants and String of Hearts&nbsp;</li><li>Calatheas and Ferns</li><li>Hoyas, Pothos, and Lemon Heartleaf Philodendrons</li></ul>Another great step is to take a look around your home. Set your plants up for success by giving them a home with the right light that they need, as well as a good humidity level for them to thrive. If you want to group some cacti and succulents together but live with very low light levels, then you can invest in some grow lights. You could also consider a low-light plant like pothos and start researching from there.&nbsp;When looking into plants to pot together, think about design elements like colors and textures. What colors will pop when placed next to each other? Are you looking for three vivid plants that will add a pop of color to your space? Are there plants with similar or differing textures that would look nice together? Along with care requirements, think about how the plants will look together as well.The next thing I would suggest you research is repotting plants. Most of the time, you are going to need to repot plants you want to turn into companions in order to give them enough room to live together. We have a blog post on <a href="http://www.canopi.com/repotting-your-houseplants-like-a-pro" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the topic of repotting</a> that I would recommend you read before attempting to group your plants together.&nbsp;Creating Your Companion Plants Pot HomeTo illustrate this idea, I decided to plant a Silver Spot Begonia, Crispy Wavy Bird’s Nest Fern, and Philodendron Micans together. These three plants are all moisture lovers, so I knew that watering them to keep the soil evenly moist would be no problem. They are all plants that require bright, indirect light to medium light which means that they would all be good companions when it comes to sunlight.I used 3 2” plants and decided to plant them all together in a 6” pot so that all of their root systems would have access to water but also enough room to breathe. If you wanted to use 2 4” plants, I would suggest a 7” or 8” planter to place them in. For 2 2” plants, you would use a 4” pot. Basically, add up those inches of the individual plants and shoot for that diameter when it comes to planter size.Since all three plants prefer well-draining soil, I used an all-purpose potting mix that had an excellent blend of moisture retention with added perlite for good drainage.&nbsp;Always use a planter or pot that has adequate drainage built in, either through one large drainage hole or through multiple drainage holes in the bottom.Get your materials together to plant your companion plants. Since I have to repot inside my apartment, I always put down a paper bag as a repotting mat.&nbsp;I planted 2” plants, so the first thing I did was to create 3 little divots in my 6” planter filled with potting soil. I experimented with placement, and what I thought would look the best in terms of where to plant each 2” plant.&nbsp;Once you have a placement that you like, you can begin taking your plants out of their pots. Make sure to shake up the root ball and remove some of the soil from the root system before planting in the divots.

Once placed, add more potting mix to cover the tops of the plant's root systems and gently pack the soil down a bit with your fingers.&nbsp;

Repeat this process for each plant until you’ve filled your planter. Give your new little plant community a drink of water, and step back to admire your work!

Planting companion plants is fun and easy and gives a fresh, eye-catching look to your indoor plantscaping. You can search for plants on our website by care requirements, making finding companion plants a breeze.

Growing Together: How to Pot Companion Plants 

Vacations are meant to be times when we can wind down, relax, and recharge. We get on a plane, or train, hop into our car or across the sea and toss the cares of our lives at home behind us for a few days or weeks.&nbsp;If you have indoor plants, though, time away can seem stressful. These are your little green friends who depend upon you for water and care. Will they be alright while you’re on your vacation?There's no reason to sweat! Caring for houseplants while you are on a trip can be easy as long as you know how to set your plants up for success. Here’s a guide to guaranteeing you come home to happy, healthy houseplants.&nbsp;The Steps Everyone Should TakeI’m going to break down houseplant care steps by the period you plant to be away from home. There are certain things, however, that everyone should do before heading out on a trip to make sure that their houseplants are going to be a-okay.&nbsp;The first thing to do is check in with all of your plants. Coming home to a healthy plant means making sure that you are leaving with a healthy plant in the first place. This involves making the rounds on all your houseplants and understanding how they’re doing before you leave.Check your plants for signs of a pest infestation, and take care of any bugs that you find as quickly as possible. You can check out our Care Article on pests to identify who may be munching on your plant’s leaves and how to deal with them.&nbsp;You will also want to check in on your plants to make sure they aren’t suffering from any type of disease or fungus. Take a look at soil health, leaves, and stems to make sure everything is looking healthy.&nbsp;Look out for moldy soil, yellowing/browning leaves, and any spots forming on your plant’s foliage. Any leaves that look unhealthy should be pruned with sanitized shears. This will help stop the spread of infection and give your plant a helping hand in getting better. Leave the curtains or blinds open for any plants that regularly depend on the sun coming through your windows. This way you can ensure that your plants will get the amount of natural light they’re used to while you’re away. On the other hand, if there are any plants that you move during more intense hours of daylight, go ahead and move them before you leave to make sure they don’t get scorched.&nbsp;If You’re Going to Be Gone a Few DaysIf your trip is going to be less than a week in length, then ensuring that your houseplants are well taken care of is going to be a bit easier than if you’re planning a month-long getaway.Most plant owners water their plants once a week, and sometimes once every two weeks in the fall and winter. If your trip falls in the days between your normal watering day, then water your plants on the day that you normally would. For example, if you water every Sunday and your trip is scheduled for Wednesday-Saturday, then you don’t need to do anything special to safeguard your plants. Houseplants love routine, and sticking to your usual watering day will keep them happy.&nbsp;If you have plants that you water more than once a week and you are going to be gone on the day(s) you would normally water them, then give them a drink before you leave. It’s also a good idea to check all of your plant’s soil the day that you leave or the day before to make sure you haven’t forgotten about any plants that need attention.&nbsp;If You’re Going to be Gone for a Week (or a Little Bit Longer)If you are planning to be away from home for a week, or even a week and a few days, then you are going to want to take some extra steps to make sure that your plants are hydrated during that time. You can even ask a friend or family member to come to check on your plants during that time and water them, but if that’s not possible there are some pretty cool water delivery systems out there.&nbsp;The first tool I’d suggest is the Plant Life Support Houseplant Watering Device from Bubblegum Stuff US. This quirky little drip system will keep your plant watered for up to 7 days, and has easy-to-follow instructions printed right on the bag. Fill the bag and hang it on the provided hook that can be stuck into your plant's soil. The system comes with a water regulator that delivers a steady drip of hydration to your plants while you’re gone.&nbsp;

Another wonderful way to make sure that your plants don’t get thirsty while you’re gone is the Olla Pepin terracotta water spike from Pepin. The olla is a very old, traditional way to irrigate plants- fill an unglazed ceramic jug with water and then bury it next to plants. The porosity of the jug will allow the water to leach out slowly over time and allows the plant to have long-term access to water without a gardener having to water the plant regularly.&nbsp;The Olla Pepin works the same way but is smaller sized to suit houseplants. Simply fill it up and then bury it into the soil of your potted plant. One of the coolest things about this product is that if you use it regularly, your plant’s roots will begin to grow around the olla itself. This will enable your plant to draw out only the water that they need when they need it- pretty cool!

If You’re Going to be Gone For Multiple Weeks or a MonthWater your plants before you go, and definitely check in on their health before you take off. Don’t rely on watering spikes and do rely on someone you trust. This is a situation where you want to have someone- either someone you know or someone you hire- to come in and care for your plants.&nbsp;If all your friends and relatives are sorely missing a green thumb and cannot be trusted, then there are services that offer plant sitters. These are people who can come into your home (for a fee of course) while you are gone and keep your plants alive while you are on vacation.Make sure to be clear with plant care instructions when you hire a plant sitter or ask a friend or family member for help. And it’s always nice to leave a note detailing care instructions, even if you talked them over. No one can remember everything, and why take the chance when it comes to your precious plants?And there you have it- an easy guide to caring for houseplants while on vacation, no matter the length of time. Take these steps to ensure that you and your plants can relax while you’re away.

Caring For Houseplants While You're Away

Each of us is a unique type of plant owner. There are those of us who love a variety of species to care for and those of us whose houses are filled with ferns only. Some people swear by moisture meters, whereas others use the rule of thumb- sticking their thumb in the dirt, that is.&nbsp;And just like each of us is a one-of-a-kind plant owner, we have one-of-a-kind aesthetics when it comes to the homes of our plants: their pots. This is a list of the best houseplant pots for every type of plant owner out there.&nbsp;The Lover of ColorWe see you over there. With your colorful Polka Dot plants, stunning Stromanthe Triostar, and vivid Calathea lancifolia. You love color and we love you for it! Without you, this world would be all greys and beige- but luckily you’re here to add color and fun to it!For you, we think that the 4.5” Gemstone Cylinder Pots with Water Saucers from Momma Pots would be perfect to continue the vibrant reputation you’ve earned. These gorgeous pots and saucers are made from high-quality porcelain, and come in a range of vibrant colors including but not limited to Sea Glass Blue, Dusty Rose, and Mustard Yellow.These beautiful pots measure 4.5”x 4.5” and are 4” deep- making them perfect for repotting your 2” or 3” plants. Handmade, you can be assured that each pot is just as unique as the lovely little plant that will call it home!

The ThalassophileBeach lover. Sea worshipper. There are many words and phrases to describe those who are drawn to the beach and ocean, but far and away the most fabulous sounding is thalassophile. You’ve got the shell collection, beach house photography, and lots of blue and white striped linens.&nbsp;If you can’t get to the beach, then you’re bringing it to your home and we love that about you! Just like the calm beach waves, you are laid back and easygoing and deserve a planter that reflects this about you.&nbsp;For you, thalassophile, we recommend the Woven Seagrass Belly Basket Planter from Sprout &amp; About. This boho basket is woven from seagrass and comes in various sizes. You can purchase one for your 4”-10” plants in order to dress them in the ultimate beach chic style.&nbsp;

The Cheeky FriendYou’re the life of any party and your home is filled with artifacts of your many adventures. You love a good laugh and don’t take yourself too seriously. You fill your home with whimsical plants like Phlebosia Nicholas Diamond, Polka Dot Begonias, and Ponytail Palms. For you may we suggest the Booty Planter from Rosebud Homegoods.&nbsp;These adorable little planters are made from plant-based plastic- making them an eco-conscious choice as well as lightweight and durable. The Booty Planter measures 4.5” wide, 5” tall, and 4.5” of planting room- making them perfect for your 4” plants.&nbsp;

The Captain Planet Plant ParentYou pot your plants in repurposed yogurt containers and propagate them in old olive jars. You use environmentally friendly soil amendments and fertilizers. Before buying a plant, you check to see if a friend has one you can get a clipping off of. The power is yours and everyone knows it! You think of the wider environment with every step of plant ownership and we salute you!&nbsp;We have a couple of pots that would tie into your eco-conscious ways. First up are Ecopots from Ecopots. These amazing little pots are made 80% from recycled plastic (the majority of which is harvested from the ocean) and recycled stone. UV and frost-resistant and shatterproof, part of what makes these an environmentally sustainable choice is that they will last you a very, very long time.&nbsp;

The next environmentally friendly option is the Kanso Natural Upcycled Planters from Kanso. These gorgeous planters are made from upcycled natural byproducts such as bamboo, coffee bean husk, nut husk, rice husk, and wheat husk.&nbsp; The Kanso Natural Upcycled Planters come in three sizes- 3”, 5”, and 7” and all feature drainage holes and come with trays. Kanso planters are durable as well as stylish, and perfect for dressing up your indoor plants.&nbsp;

The Classic LookFrench doors, antiques, sconces- these are the design elements that make your heart flutter. You love clean lines and greys and cream and we love your classic style! You feature an array of classic houseplants in your home: Pothos plants, Rubber trees, and Boston ferns.&nbsp;For you, oh lover of the classics, may I suggest the Terracotta Cylinder Pots from Momma Pots. Terracotta is a time-tested favorite of houseplant owners, and these pots meld old materials with a new design.&nbsp;These beautiful terracotta pots come in four sizes- 4.5”, 6.25”, 8.25”., and 10.25” and all have a drainage hole. They come with elegant water trays to rest on, and each pot is handmade.&nbsp;

Another option for the lover of the classic look would be the Plastic Cylinder Plant Pot with Saucer from Siegmunt Trade LLC. These lightweight pots feature a minimalist design and come in two classic colors: white and terracotta.&nbsp;Each pot has multiple drainage holes in the bottom to make sure your plant's soil doesn’t stay soggy and comes with a saucer for any water that may leak. These pots feature the sophistication of porcelain or terracotta without the risk of them falling and breaking.&nbsp;They are sturdy and flexible- the best of both worlds. These chic pots come in a range of sizes and fit 4”, 5”, 6”, and 7” plants.&nbsp;

The Plant CollectorFor you, houseplants aren’t an element of home design- they’re a way of life. You stop by every plant shop you pass and rarely leave empty-handed. You ask your friends for clippings, and you propagate the plants that you already have- always searching for more. We see your unbridled enthusiasm for plants and we love you for it!&nbsp;While you may have a great love for plants in your heart, you may not have a great amount of space for all the ones you would hope to have. That’s why we recommend for you plant collectors the Wall Garden Hanger from Houseplant Wholesale WEST.&nbsp;These durable grey wall hanger is 20” wide by 30” tall and can hold up to 18 plants! Perfect to hang on your wall that receives the best light in your home, and perfect for watering your plants all at once. This helpful little wall-hanging garden allows you to up your plant game without taking up too much counter or table space. Be sure to check out our Planters page where you can find all these pots and many more to fit your style!

A Planter for Every Type of Plant Ownerss

A Planter for Every Type of Plant Owner

Air-purifying houseplants is a popular and frequently searched for item and there are a plethora of articles and lists designed to tell you all the air-cleaning benefits of certain plants. Perhaps you've seen them? “Top 10 Best Air Purifying Plants to Buy for Your Home!”&nbsp; “Boost Your Home’s Air Quality with These 15 Air Purifying Plants!” “Never Open Your Windows Again With These 6 Air Purifying Plants!”There are many articles on plant blogs- and, most importantly plant store websites- that make the claim that there are certain plants you should purchase to help you clean your indoor air at home and at work of common household toxins.&nbsp;It sounds like it should be true. It sounds like it makes sense. Plants have been scientifically proven to clean some toxins from surrounding air- right? The answer is yes, they have- just in very small and controlled laboratory settings. The idea that certain plants work to purify the air in homes and other spaces came from a 1989 experiment done by NASA. They were looking for ways to filter out harmful air pollutants in space stations and came to the conclusion that plants could remove cancer-causing chemicals from the air. They conducted their experiments by placing certain plants in a two-foot wide by two-foot long container and using a fan to circulate volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) throughout that space. The plants were able to filter these volatile compounds in these small, airtight containers- sometimes in a matter of hours. But we don’t live in small, airtight containers. Our living spaces and work environments are larger than two feet long by two feet wide, and they are certainly not airtight. The reason that this conception that plants clean indoor spaces of common toxins is a myth is that the data used from one study done in a very controlled and small laboratory setting was then assumed to have the same results when applied in our not-so-controlled and much larger home or office setting.&nbsp;It's a cautionary tale of how scientific research and findings can be misunderstood or misinterpreted. Michael Waring, PhD and one of his doctorate students Bryan Cummings, reviewed over 30 years of research into plant air purification properties and published their findings in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology in 2019. The associate professor of architectural and environmental engineering at Drexel’s College of Engineering in Philadelphia and his student <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/11/191106114202.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">came to the conclusion</a> that “natural or ventilation air exchange rates” do most of the air purifying and at a much faster rate than houseplants ever could.&nbsp;Waring was <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/houseplants-dont-purify-indoor-air#:~:text=New%20research%2C%20however%2C%20continues%20to,the%20air%20in%20your%20home.&amp;text=It%27s%20a%20myth%20you%20almost,study%20the%20air%20we%20breathe." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">able to calculate</a> just how many plants you would need to have in your home or office in order for them to purify the air better and faster than the natural and artificial ventilation systems already present. Using a calculation known as the clean air delivery rate (CADR), Waring found that you would need 10 plants per square foot in order to remove VOCs at a rate that would actually raise indoor air quality. That means if you live in an 882-square-foot apartment, you would need close to 9,000 plants in order to significantly and positively affect your indoor air quality.&nbsp;Now, I love plants as much as the next plant owner and will be the first to admit that I am constantly growing my plant collection at every chance/excuse that I can. And it is because I have this love for my plants that I can say with confidence that I could never keep so many in my home nor care for such a large quantity properly.&nbsp;Not to mention I would probably have nowhere to sleep, sit, cook, and I may never see my cat ever again in such a jungle. While our houseplants may not purify the air in our homes at the extent or rate that we might have thought they did- they still host a wide range of benefits to us that have been scientifically proven and can be confidently shouted from the rooftops. <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/344010151_An_Update_of_the_Literature_Supporting_the_Well-Being_Benefits_of_Plants_A_Review_of_the_Emotional_and_Mental_Health_Benefits_of_Plants" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Studies</a> show that having and caring for plants in our homes and workspaces can help reduce anxiety and stress, decrease depression, and even enhance our memories and boost our creativity and life satisfaction.&nbsp;That's a pretty great return for investing our time and care into our little green plant friends. So keep collecting houseplants and keep caring for them and reap those good feeling benefits. Plants already do so much for us just by teaching us how to care for another living thing. Just don’t fall prey to the articles pushing certain plants to rid your home of common household toxins- only an air purifier can do that.

Mythbusting: Air Purifying Plants

Maybe someone gave you a Calathea for your birthday or work promotion. Maybe your roommate left behind their cactus collection when they moved out. Maybe you were scrolling through Instagram and saw a reel of someone meticulously caring for their Philodendron and thought to yourself, “now that looks like something I could get into”.&nbsp;Whatever your reasons for becoming a first-time plant owner, here you are on a plant shop’s blog trying to find out how to care for your new green charge. There are many tools that are a must when you are looking after plants, and the first plant care tool you need is knowledge! Not to sound like a PSA but knowledge is power- and researching your plant should be the first step in learning how to properly care for it.&nbsp;If you haven’t already, go ahead and do a little digging about your new plant. What region does it come from? How much water does it need throughout the week? Does it like bright, indirect light or shade? You can find that information here on our website on your plant’s individual species page.&nbsp;

<h2>Watering</h2>Watering is probably the thing that first-time plant owners are worried about getting right. I would suggest after reading up on your plant's specific watering requirements that you take a look at our Care Article Watering Houseplants 101. There’s a lot of good information in there that can help you water with success.&nbsp;

But you can’t just water with your mind. (Well, maybe you’re telekinetic and you can- and honestly good for you!) Most of us are familiar with the traditional watering can, so I’m not going to spend too much time going over its merits. You can use it to top water or bottom water your plants, it’s spout makes water delivery to soil easy, and you’re going to feel very cool holding one.&nbsp;There are alternatives to the watering can, some of which might just be easier for first-time plant owners because they will take care of the dreaded question: “How often should I water?”

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<h2>Pruning</h2>If you’ve purchased or been gifted a Tradescantia, Spider plant, Pothos, or any other creeping, vining plant then you may want to invest in a good pair of pruning shears. Good quality shears will allow you to safely trim back your plant for years to come.&nbsp;You can trim back trailing plants like Tradescantia or Pothos in order to encourage them to grow bushier and rounder. You can use any plant cuttings that your prune off of your plant to propagate more plants- so you may also want to check out our selection of propagation stations.

<h2>Plant Food</h2>If you’ve only got one plant at home, or are just starting your collection, then you probably don’t need to invest in a large amount of plant food. Most houseplants only need to be fed a few times during the spring and summer, so it doesn’t make sense to buy an enormous bottle of the stuff if you’re just starting out.&nbsp;We would recommend you buy the Single Serving Plant Food Packet from Flourish. This will allow you to buy as many servings as you need to feed your plant through spring and summer, without having to store a large bottle of plant food throughout the rest of the year. Plant food for one, anyone?

<h2>Plant Support</h2>If you want to give your trailing or climbing plant some support and structure, then we would recommend a trellis. The Honeycomb Plant Trellis from PlantsNsht can be used in pots that are 3” or larger and 18.5” long- giving your plant plenty of growing room. The wood is ¼” thick, and will hold up under the weight of your plant as it grows- so no worries about this thing snapping on you.&nbsp;These are some suggestions of good tools to add to your arsenal when you get your first houseplant, but there are so many more! Check out our “Tools” section to see our full range of supplies.

The Essential Toolkit for Any New Plant Owner

Keeping your plants happy includes making sure that they’re receiving the right levels of humidity. While there are some low humidity-loving plants, the majority of houseplants are happy with humidity levels of 40-60%. This is because humidity plays an important role in photosynthesis.&nbsp;If you go to the spa and get a facial, your esthetician will use a steamer in order to increase humidity and open the pores on your face for the coming treatments. Well, some plants are no different, and when humidity levels are high their stomates open wider allowing them to take in more carbon dioxide. Plants need carbon dioxide in order to participate in photosynthesis, so making sure they have the right level of humidity is key.&nbsp;That being said, not every plant wants or needs a trip to the spa in order to complete photosynthesis. Most are fine with 40% humidity, which is the average household humidity. It’s important to do research on your plant’s native habitat and understand how that impacts the humidity level that it wants.A Snake plant that comes from a dry region is going to be happy in low humidity levels of 30%. On the other hand, a Calathea from a humid, rainy region is going to require humidity levels at or above 50% in order to thrive. The first thing you should do before trying to boost humidity for houseplants is to actually make sure that that’s something that your plant wants and needs.&nbsp;

When it comes to boosting humidity in your home for your plants, there are a few suggestions out there on how to do it. Since the right level of humidity is so important, it can be difficult to choose which method to employ.Should you mist your plants, and if so- how often? And what about pebble trays, do they actually work? Should you invest money in a humidifier if there are lower-cost options that work like misting and pebble trays?﻿Never fear- Canopi is here to get to the root of what works and what doesn’t when boosting humidity in your home! We’re going to go method by method and debunk or confirm its humidity boosting effects.&nbsp;

<h2>Misting</h2>Misting is far and away the most common advice you will come across on the internet for boosting humidity for your plants. But does it actually work to mist your houseplants?The answer is yes and no. The idea here is that misting boosts the humidity because the water droplets on your plant’s leaves will evaporate into water vapor around your plant, boosting the surrounding air’s moisture content. The only problem is- that’s not how water vapor works.When you mist your plant, it’s true that the droplets convert into water vapor- they just don’t stay localized around your plant. Through a process called diffusion, water vapor spreads through the entire room that your plant is located in. For this reason, it can’t really boost the humidity of the entire room by too much.&nbsp;“But wait a minute!” You say, spray bottle in hand. “Nurseries and growers use misters to boost humidity!” Yes, that is true- but they are misting over the entire space in an environment with already very high humidity that allows that water vapor to stick around for a lot longer than our much drier homes.Greenhouses typically have a humidity level of 80% or higher and use large-scale industrial misters to mimic tropical plants' native habitats. Most homes have an average humidity level of 40%, meaning that that drier air is not going to allow the water vapor from misting to hang out for very long.&nbsp;“But wait again!” You say, now with a spray bottle in each hand and a crazed look in your eye. “What if I just increase my misting throughout the day? That has to make a difference!”You’re right! In your average home, you would probably have to mist your plant every 15-20 minutes in order to make some kind of effect on moisture levels. But my question to you is: do you have this kind of time and if so, please tell me how because I am jealous. Besides, do you know what misting every 15-20 minutes sounds like? A humidifier.&nbsp;“But I love misting my plants and they are doing so well!” You cry, falling to the ground with spray bottles by your side. I hear you, I totally get it, and I agree! You see, I am a giant hypocrite- I have a Pachira aquatica that I absolutely love to mist every other day.Even though I am writing all of this about the ineffectiveness of misting to boost humidity, I cannot deny that my Pachira looks especially happy after being misted. And that’s because for most plants misting does absolutely no harm at all.&nbsp;Some plants like epiphytes even crave a misting, but there are others like Begonia’s that will not appreciate their leaves getting wet. The key thing is to know your plant and the native environment it comes from. Misting doesn’t hurt most plants, and it boosts the time that you spend with them- which is good for you and your plant.&nbsp;So, by all means, if it makes you and your plant happy: mist your plants. Just don’t do it if you are trying to solve a serious problem of low humidity.&nbsp;

<h2>Pebble Trays</h2>Another common method to boost humidity that you will see roaming around blog posts and plant care articles is using a pebble tray. This method entails placing your plant on a tray filled with gravel or pebbles and water. The idea here, again, is that the water in the tray will evaporate into water vapor and raise the humidity level around your plant. The pebbles are so you can leave your plant on the pebble tray for as long as it takes for the water to evaporate without letting its roots sit in water.&nbsp;Does it work? Yes and no, but more so no. Just like we discussed with misting, the water will become water vapor but it won’t necessarily hang out around your plant. It will travel throughout the room that your plant is placed in during that same diffusion process.&nbsp;“Where’s the data to support this claim?” You demand, with gravel coming out of your pockets and dripping from your hands. An Australian orchid enthusiast from the Orchid Societies Council of Victoria <a href="http://oscov.asn.au/articles/maintaining-high-humidity-indoors-by-brian-milligan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tested out</a> the effectiveness of pebble trays and found that at most, pebble trays increased the humidity by 7%- and only at 1.5” above the pebble tray. It’s important to note that that was also in the summertime when higher temperatures and warmer air meant more humidity was already available. When conducted in winter, dry air made that number dropped to 3% at 1.5” above the tray. Those kinds of numbers are just not enough to make any sort of difference for a plant.&nbsp;

<h2>Bathroom and Kitchen Placement</h2>Another tip that you’ll find when perusing articles on how to boost humidity is to place your high-humidity-loving plants in the bathroom or kitchen. The idea here is that the steam from showering or cooking will help boost humidity for your plant. But does it work?When you take a shower, you exit into a steamy bathroom. But the bathroom doesn’t stay steamy forever, and usually within a half hour to an hour your mirror is defogged. Likewise, when you cook over your stovetop, you may notice your kitchen windows steam up, but they are usually clear within the hour. You would need to endlessly boil noodles or take multiple showers throughout the day in order for these placements to have any real effect on your plants. And while that sounds luxurious and delicious, it just isn’t realistic for most people.&nbsp;That being said, these rooms can still be good placements for your plants that need high humidity. Just don’t rely on the placement alone to help them stay happy.&nbsp;

<h2>Humidifier</h2>Many articles and blog posts will suggest purchasing a humidifier for plants and placing it near your plants in order to boost humidity. Humidifiers can be expensive, and you may be wondering if they are worth the price.&nbsp;Well- it depends. If used correctly, humidifiers are wonderful for boosting humidity because they are machines designed to do just that. That being said, a humidifier will not boost the humidity of your room or home unless it is designed for the square footage of your room or home.&nbsp;If you keep all of your high-humidity plants inside one room of your home, then you want to make sure that the humidifier that you buy is designed to achieve higher humidity levels in that square footage. It does no good to buy a small humidifier that only works up to 250 square feet and place it in your 600-square-foot living room. There will simply be too much space for the excess water vapor to be effective.&nbsp;This is where the question of “is it worth it” gets tricky. If you keep your plants in one room that isn’t too large or you live in a studio apartment, then buying a humidifier can make sense. But if you want to keep your high-humidity plants in your cavernous grand foyer or your open-concept living room/dining room then you will be spending a lot more money- either on multiple units or one mega-humidifier. Then again, if you have a cavernous grand foyer I expect you are reading this through your monocle and using $100 bills to blow your nose, so purchasing a large humidifier should be no issue.&nbsp;Humidifiers can also be pricey when you think about the fact that you would need to run them for most of the day in order to effectively boost the humidity in your home for a long period of time. Otherwise, we are back to the shower/water boiling scenario. That’s a lot of energy use, so make sure a humidifier is actually something that you want to invest in.&nbsp;

<h2>Terrariums, Indoor Greenhouses, and Humidity Domes</h2>There is a wide range of products out there designed to bring the greenhouse into your home. From using aquariums to store plants, to glass domes over plants- these methods are basically all trying to do the same thing: create a microclimate within the microclimate of your home. The idea here is to put your plants in a smaller space so that the air that needs to stay moist is reduced. So, how effective are they?This method is the most effective way to boost humidity for your high-humidity-loving plants. It makes sense when you think about it. The number one issue with all of these other methods we’ve discussed is space: the final frontier of humidity. The methods above aren’t effective because of the size of the space that water vapor has to travel in. Why would it want to hang out with your plants? It can go read your books on the shelf or go work out on your Peloton.&nbsp;But if you reduce the space that your plants live in, then you can effectively reduce the size of the area where the moisture in the air has to travel. This way, you can effectively trap the water vapor so that it has to hang out with your plant because it has no choice- there’s nowhere else to go! That may seem sinister, but your high humidity-loving plants will thank you for this evil plot.