Some plants are easier to grow than others and the following list details some of the easier plants to grow:

Snake Plant, (Sansevieria) also known as ‘Mother in Law Tongue’ , is one of the easiest houseplants to grow, and is almost indestructible. It is able to grow in a wide range of light conditions, from bright sunshine to shade. It can withstand low humidity, cooler house temperatures, and does not need to be watered very often, as it prefers to be dry before it is watered. Low maintenance, rarely needing to be transplanted. It is an attractive looking plant, with long, spear-like, upright leaves. There are different varieties to choose from.

Cast Iron Plant, (Aspidistra) as the name implies, can tolerate many different conditions. It can grow in most light conditions including low light, tolerates dry air, and does not mind being neglected. Allow the soil to be dry between waterings as it does not like soggy soil. It is a slow growing plant and does not need or like to be re-planted very often.

Chinese Evergreen, (Aglaonema) thrives in low-lit areas and low humidity. It does not like cold temperatures, so keep it away from outside doors and cold windows. To keep it happy, give it warmth (average room temperature) and keep soil moist. A beautiful floor plant with large leaves. It is one of the better plants for removing toxins from the air.

Peace Lily, (Spathiphyllum) is a beautiful houseplant that is known for its attractive white flower. It is considered to be one of the easier plants to grow, as it can grow in low light, average room temperature, and regular watering. Allow soil to go slightly dry between waterings. The foliage will begin to droop if the soil becomes too dry.

Jade Plant, (crassula argentea) is a popular succulent which has thick, fleshy green leaves that grow on tree-like branches. It is a long-living, slow growing plant that is easy to grow and care for, as it rarely needs to be re-potted. It needs lots of light, such as a south facing window. Used to growing in dry conditions, it likes low humidity, and dry soil. Do not overwater. It is an easy plant to propagate, by taking cuttings.

Aloes, in general are an easy to care for plant. Probably the best known of them is the aloe vera, or medicine plant, known for its healing abilities. It is a succulent and so requires lots of light (southern exposure). It does well in low humidity and is watered thoroughly when the soil becomes dry, and is also able to adapt to different temperatures.

Pothos, or Devil’s ivy, (Epipremnum aureum) is an easy to grow trailing or vining plant. The leathery, heart shaped leaves grow on long stems that can easily be pruned back to give the plant a fuller look. Trimmed off stems are easy to propagate. Pothos are able to grow in lower light conditions, but not direct sunlight. They also can adapt to a wide range of temperatures and do well in average humidity.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum) is another easy to grow hanging plant. Children enjoy spider plants because the plant produces baby plants that look like spiders on long stems that hang down from the plant. These baby plants are easy to propagate. Spider plants will grow almost anywhere and in most conditions. Keep them out of direct sun. Allow the soil to go dry between waterings. They are able to grow in different temperatures and don’t mind humidity.

-Jos

Jos Van Hage owns and operates two Art Knapp Home and Garden Centres in Prince George:

• Highway 16 west at Kimball Road
• Highway 97 North at Northwood Pulpmill Road