Plants that will survive college life
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I know I struggle to keep things alive myself, and getting a plant is a serious responsibility!
Make sure you know about the different needs of any plants you might get, and that you are fully prepared to take care of them!
The benefits of living with plants are undisputable. Connecting with nature and green spaces, even indoors, is proven to reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve air quality. Houseplants are more than inspiring decor; they positively affect emotional and mental well-being. Yet keeping them alive can be its own challenge. As busy college students, being a plant parent may be the least of our issues as busy college students.
How often have you heard someone say, “Succulents are the easiest plant to keep alive?” And how many succulents have you killed— especially on your dorm room windowsill? Despite having a reputation for easy maintenance, succulents are finicky plants requiring specific sunlight conditions and a careful watering schedule. They are prone to withering if you don’t water them enough and may fall victim to root rot (a plant disease caused by overwatering or bacterial infection) if you give them too much.
If you’re in the market for some greenery to brighten and freshen up your living space but can’t keep a succulent alive, plenty of houseplant alternatives are much easier to care for!
The first plant that I recommend to red-thumbed individuals is a snake plant. Snake plants are notoriously hearty, growing in nearly any level of light. Did you forget to water your snake plant last week? No worries! These houseplants do not depend on a consistent watering schedule. Water it either when the topsoil becomes dusty or— pro tip —if you gently squeeze a leaf and it bends easily, your plant needs a drink.
Another temperate houseplant is a golden pothos. The hardest part about caring for these trailing vines is hanging them up in a pot with drainage. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes and an attached saucer, simply put some big rocks or marbles into the bottom before your soil, and you’ll be good to go. Golden pothos also love to be trimmed back, so don’t be afraid to take some scissors to your plant baby— it’ll come back looking even better.
This may be a controversial suggestion, but a peace lily is a worthwhile houseplant if you have a window with decent sunlight. These plants need weekly watering, but, conveniently, you’ll know exactly when it’s time to add water to these dramatic plants because they’ll keel over. Provide a good drink, and they’ll spring right back up. Peace lilies do not need to be frequently repotted because they thrive in a slightly crowded pot, so don’t worry about upsizing every year. With some sunlight and a moderately consistent watering schedule, peace lilies are a beautiful flowering addition.
The ZZ plant is unique and can withstand varying light, watering, and potting levels. If taking one look doesn’t convince you to add this plant to your collection, just know that I’ve had my ZZ plant in a coffee mug on my bookshelf for the past three years, and she’s as good as ever. This plant comes in several different sizes, so you’re in luck whether you want a large floor pot or a little desk accessory.