Guide to Selecting Houseplants

Success in growing flowering or foliage houseplants largely depends on your skill, knowledge of the plant material and the time you want to invest in it. In addition, site selection and cultural practices are also very important. Some houseplants are relatively easy to grow and are easily adaptable, like the cast iron plant. Other plants, like nerve plant, are difficult to grow because of their high moisture and humidity requirements. Cultural practices, including watering, fertilizing, and pest control are detailed in the NebGuide Guide to Growing Houseplants, G91-1022. This NebGuide is available at your local county extension office.

The following list will help you select an appropriate houseplant for your home. First you must determine where you want to place the plant in your home and then note the environmental conditions (available light, humidity and temperature) of that location. These are general requirements and may need to be adjusted depending on the type of soil and pot that you use. As light intensity is reduced during the winter months, a decrease in temperature and moisture is also desirable for plant health. In addition, some plants require cooler temperatures during the winter to initiate flower buds.