We asked Jesse Nersesian, the babe behind Plant Babe (1836 Meeting St., Charleston), about using plants to brighten a room. She had these pointers for plant newbies before you head out to find your new leafy babe.
“Figure out where you want to put a plant in your space first,” she said. “Plants do need light. Does it get direct light? Bright indirect light? Some light? This is what you’ll need to know to make the best choice. A plant without the right conditions is a plant that’s not going to live very long.”
Here are some recommended plants that are easy to care for, do well in different lighting and are practically guaranteed to improve your space:
Dying for a cool trailing/hanging plant that grows like crazy? Pick up a Pothos (also known as Devil’s Ivy, Epipremnum). Nothing will make your brown thumb look green like a pothos, which grows fast and loves to grow long legs.
A plant to sit on the ground with good vertical lines? Grab a Snake Plant (Sansevieria, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue) or ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia). If you’re going for a dramatic, modern look, be on the lookout for a Raven ZZ plant with its striking black leaves.
A taller plant? Dracaena (Dragon Tree) is a great starter plant for someone with patience. They’re hearty enough to bounce back from neglect, but are slow growing.
A statement plant? Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) is a favorite of interior designers, Instagrammers and plant lovers.
A pet-safe safe plant? Parlor Palm (Neanthe Bella) is well loved by humans and pets for its delicate stalks, jungle feeling and packs a green punch for a small plant.
Some other tips from Nersesian on how to keep your new plant alive:
• Do a little research on what your plant needs and what signs show that it needs to be watered.
• Use pots with drainage. No one wants to sit in old bath water!
• If you have pets, be sure to check out ASPCA.org to see if your plant is toxic — or make sure to keep plants out of reach.
• Plants tend to die more from overwatering and too much love than neglect. Underwatering is better than overwatering. Use a reminder on your phone if you need a little help.
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