New Houseplants

Nurseries are developing plants that thrive indoors for even the most forgetful caregiver. So check out these new plants at your garden center. With a few basic tips you're bound to succeed.

If you don't have the luxury of a lot of light where you live, then you'll like two new varieties of plants that grow extremely well in low light conditions. The first is called Chinese evergreen, which has been around for a while but is now being bred to be more durable. It has great variegation on its leaves and stems--some are green, while others have a creamy-white stem.

Another great low-light plant is the peace lily, which you probably know for its white flowers. The anthurium looks very similar and has white and pink flowers, but its leaf shape has more of an arrowhead shape rather than the peace lily's long, pointy, rippled leaves. Nurseries also have new varieties available like the unusual ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), which has tall, dense stems with leathery, glossy leaves. There are also the faithful standbys like the Calathea, whose leaves are etched with white and have magenta backs. Or try the snakeplant, which stands at attention with long, rigid leaves that have a variety of markings.

Some plants like moist, humid conditions, while others prefer things drier. For plants such as the ficus that like water, it's important to keep the soil moist at all times. You can create your own humidity factory by simply taking a saucer, filling it up with stones or pebbles and then with water. Place the plant on top, and the water will humidify the air. For plants that like it on the drier side, it's important to let the plant dry out between waterings. When you do water, allow the water to drain sufficiently. Never allow the plant to sit in water.

Try to make a habit of using a moist, lint-free cloth to remove dust from the leaves. This helps the plant absorb as much of the available light as possible.

And what about fertilizing? Between November and March, do not feed houseplants at all. This is the time that the plants need to rest. However, in March, when you start seeing new growth, that's the time to fertilize. Any type of fertilizer will do. Cut the strength in half and fertilize every couple of weeks.

When you buy a new plant, make sure you examine the top and back side of the leaves. If you notice any creepy-crawly things, then choose another plant. If you get the plant home and later discover aphids, mites or mealy bugs, simply use an insecticidal soap. Spray the tops and backs of the leaves.

These tips should make your house a blooming success with beautiful green houseplants.