8 No-Fuss Houseplants To Add Some Zen To Your Space

And remember: The most important part of any gardening journey to just enjoy caring for your plant — that's what will help it thrive.

The four plants below do not just tolerate low, indirect light — they thrive in it. Both the snake plant and ZZ plant are tall, structural showstoppers, while the philodendron and pothos are trailing plants with heart-shaped leaves that come in a variety of green hues.

A Sansevieria, or snake plant, is particularly special in that is can tolerate low light levels, droughts, and serious neglect. Not to mention, it’s one of 10 plants given NASA’s seal of approval for removing harmful toxins from indoor air and it converts carbon dioxide into oxygen during the night. (Most plants only do this during the day.)

Succulents and cacti thrive in bright, indirect lighting though they can prosper in direct light, too. That sunny, south-facing sill is in luck! Fill it with one of these fun varieties.

Now that you've found your plant, here are five tried-and-true tips to keep in mind when tending to it.

Plants, like people, have different temperaments. Picking the right plant mate for your lifestyle is key. If you tend to be forgetful when life gets busy, try the no-fuss ZZ plant. If you’re a frequent out-of-towner, try a succulent plant, which stores water in its leaves. Or if your pooch can’t keep his teeth off your smelly sneakers — much less a bright green friend — be sure to choose a nontoxic variety like the Ripple Peperomia.

Keeping a houseplant is a relationship. Granted, it doesn’t have to be a high-maintenance one. But expect that in the early days, you’ll need to get to know one another. He may have to get used to your neglect during a hectic workweek, and you’ll need to get a feel for his level of thirst. After a couple weeks of putting in the work, living together harmoniously will become second nature. Nurture the relationship and you’ll be together for a long time.

Plants get their nourishment and energy from the sun, so be sure you’re providing the right amount of sunlight. If you’re lucky, you have south-facing windows. These provide the most light and allow you to situate your plants farther into the room. If your window is east- or west-facing, place plants closer to the window. And if your window faces north, which provides for little direct light, your plant will be happiest right on the sill.

Beware: Overwatering is the easiest way to kill a plant. Most plants should be watered when the first inch of soil has dried out. No need to overthink it — just stick your finger in the potting mix and go with your gut. Always, always use a planter with drainage. Pour water into the planter until the water begins to trickle through the bottom drainage holes and into the saucer. Let the plant soak up the water for 15 to 30 minutes, then empty any remaining water from the saucer. Idle water can attract pests and lead to rot root.

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