1. Assess Your Space

Before you buy a single plant, take a walk through your home and observe the light. This is the single most important factor in keeping plants alive.

• Bright, direct light: South-facing windows. Great for succulents, cacti, and Bird of Paradise.
• Bright, indirect light: East or west-facing windows. Perfect for Monstera, Fiddle Leaf Fig, and most tropicals.
• Low light: North-facing windows or interior rooms. Snake Plant, Pothos, and ZZ Plant thrive here.

2. Start with Forgiving Plants

Don’t jump straight to a Calathea. Start with plants that can handle some beginner mistakes: Pothos, Snake Plant, Monstera, and ZZ Plant.

3. Watering: The #1 Plant Killer

More plants die from overwatering than underwatering. Stick your finger 2 inches into the soil. If it’s dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.

4. The Right Soil Matters

Most tropical houseplants prefer a well-draining mix — standard potting soil mixed with perlite works great.

5. Don’t Forget Humidity

Many popular indoor plants come from tropical environments and appreciate humidity above 40%. Group plants together or use a humidifier.