PLANTS · CARE GUIDE
Houseplant Care Guide
Search a houseplant or filter by the light in your room to get light, watering and leaf-problem tips, and check whether it is safe for cats and dogs.
Find your plant
Popular plants
Plants by light
| Light | Plants |
|---|---|
| Low indirect light (16) | Chinese Evergreen, Cast Iron Plant, Ponytail Palm, Parlor Palm, Dieffenbachia, Dracaena |
| Bright indirect light (18) | Amaryllis, Alocasia, Norfolk Island Pine, Asparagus Fern, Boston Fern, Rubber Plant |
| Bright light (16) | Bunny Ear Cactus, Aloe, Echeveria, Haworthia, Calamondin Orange, Meyer Lemon |
How to use the results
Each plant is grouped into one of three light levels and one of three watering styles. Watering is described by how dry the soil should get, not by a fixed number of days, because pot size, potting mix and season change how fast it dries.
Seasonal tips
- Move plants toward brighter windows gradually over a week or two; a sudden jump into strong sun can scorch leaves.
- Most houseplants should stay indoors until nights are consistently above 50°F.
- Wipe dust off large leaves with a damp cloth so they get more light.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water my houseplants?
Go by the soil, not the calendar. For most plants, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, water until it drains, and empty the saucer. Succulents and snake plants should dry out more.
Why are my plant’s leaves turning yellow?
Overwatering is the most common cause, especially when the soil stays wet. Too little light, pests and natural aging of the oldest leaves are other causes to check.
What plants do well in low light?
Pothos, ZZ plant, snake plant, cast iron plant and peace lily are among the plants here that tolerate low indirect light. No plant grows in a truly dark room.
More tools
Sources and last updated
- University of Minnesota Extension, Lighting for indoor plants and starting seeds
- Clemson Cooperative Extension, Houseplant Diseases & Disorders
- University of Minnesota Extension, Spring houseplant care
- North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, houseplant detail pages
- Pet safety comes from the ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plant lists.
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