5 Best Low-Maintenance Houseplants For Seniors and Retirees

Having houseplants can be a real stress reducer. They’re also great for your immune system. It’s true! Like trees provide us with oxygen outside, plants help purify the air we breathe inside! And, as if those aren’t already great points – here’s one more: plants are pretty! And, well, they make your home pretty too. Of course, like any other living thing, they need to be taken care of. But, yeah, I know – you’re retired. You’ve taken care of kids and family and worked your whole life, and now we want you to be The Green Thumb too? Well, let me stop you right there. Because I’m here to talk about the most low-maintenance houseplants there are! No need to stress out about remembering to water or prune these babies! Here’s a top 5 list that even the most hopeless gardener can get behind.

1. Spider Plant

Although the name may sound creepy-crawly, the foliage is anything but! Spider plants are known for their long, cascading stems and plantlets. They are very full and look great in hanging baskets. Spider plants can be kept inside or outside; as long as they’re getting indirect sunlight, they’re good either way. Native to more tropical climates, this houseplant is surprisingly adaptable and tolerant. They do need to be watered regularly, but even the most over-watered plant has the ability to bounce back!

2. Jade Plant

Jade plants are a type of succulents known for their thick, oval-shaped leaves and wide stems. Plenty of sun and light watering will keep these beauties looking their best. Too much water and the roots may rot. So, for those of us who frequently forget to water (guilty!), this is perfect! Jade is low-maintenance, resilient, and uniquely pretty!

3. Snake Plant

Snake plants are known to be tall, thick, and hardy! They have a reputation for being mostly indestructible, as they don’t require a lot of maintenance. Monthly watering is acceptable; it’s best to allow the soil to dry completely between watering. Snake plants can adapt to darker environments, so they can be placed anywhere throughout your home and be just fine (though they will thrive with more sunlight).

4. Prayer Plant

Prayer plants are native to more tropical environments, but can thrive as indoor houseplants! They’re known for their vibrant, colorful leaves and low-growing disposition. These plants enjoy the bright indirect sun and moderate watering. The basic rule of thumb is to never let their soil dry completely.

Looking for info on aging-in-place? Then start here!

5. Cast Iron Plant

This always-green houseplant is named for its resilience. Cast iron plants are tall, incredibly sturdy, and can grow in even deep shade. These plants have earned a reputation for being one of the hardest to kill houseplants out there! They’ll thrive in almost any type of soil. They actually like it indoors (as long as you’re keeping your home between 60 and 75 degrees). And, they prefer moderate watering – which means, if you forget to water, it’s not the end of the world!

Want More About Houseplants?

If you enjoy gardening, but no longer have the knees or back for it, houseplants can be a great alternative. They provide a hobby, fresher atmosphere, and healthier living all at once! Don’t believe me? Then check out this article on the 7 health benefits of keeping indoor plants!

Ready to go shopping? Then check out The Spruce’s guides to owning houseplants.

Looking for more great articles? Then check out our Retirement Lifestyle Blog!