If you've ever bought a plant with high hopes, only to watch it wilt days later, don't worry—you're not alone. We've all been there. But growing plants isn't as hard as it seems once we learn a few simple habits.

Whether we're working with a sunny windowsill or a shady balcony, the key is to start with the right plant and understand what it needs.

Pick beginner-friendly plants

As new plant parents, we should begin with plants that are forgiving and easy to care for. Some great starter choices include:

• Snake plant – low light, minimal watering

• Pothos – fast-growing and tough

• Spider plant – grows fast and cleans the air

• Peace lily – tells us when it needs water (droops slightly)

These plants can handle a little neglect and still grow well, making them perfect for beginners.

Understand sunlight needs

All plants need light, but not all of them want the same amount. We should check how much sunlight our space gets throughout the day. South-facing windows usually get the most light, while north-facing ones are the dimmest. Here's a quick tip:

• Bright direct light: Great for succulents and cacti

• Indirect light: Perfect for snake plants and pothos

• Low light: Try ZZ plants or peace lilies

If we're not sure, we can start with low-light plants—they're easier to manage and more flexible.

Don't overwater

One of the most common beginner mistakes is overwatering. We think we're helping, but too much water can actually harm the roots. A simple rule? Stick a finger into the soil about one inch deep. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it's still damp, wait a few days. And make sure our pots have drainage holes—plants don't like to sit in water.

Use the right soil and pots

Different plants need different types of soil. For example, succulents and cacti prefer sandy, well-drained soil, while leafy greens like moist but loose soil. When we buy a plant, we can ask the seller or check the label for its soil type.

Also, choose pots that are just the right size—too big and the soil stays too wet; too small and the roots might not grow well. Bonus tip: clay pots are great for airflow, while plastic pots retain moisture longer.

Feed them, but not too often

Plants need nutrients just like we do, but that doesn't mean feeding them every week. A mild liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) is usually enough. During the colder months, many plants rest and don't need extra food.

Watch out for common signs

Plants communicate—they just do it quietly. If the leaves are turning yellow, it could mean overwatering. Brown edges might mean dry air or underwatering. If a plant starts leaning toward the light, it's asking for more sun. By checking in with our plants regularly, we'll start to understand their rhythm and needs.

Make plant care a habit

Caring for plants shouldn't feel like a chore. We can set a weekly reminder to check soil, trim dead leaves, and rotate the pots for even growth. Spending just a few minutes with our plants every few days helps them thrive—and gives us a calming break from daily stress.

Let's grow together!

Lykkers, if you've been hesitating to bring a plant home, now's the perfect time to give it a go. Start with one easy plant and let it teach you as it grows. Soon, you'll have a little green corner of your own to be proud of. Have any plant questions or success stories? Share them with us—we'd love to grow and learn together!