For anyone just starting out on their houseplant journey, we recommend low-maintenance plants that are forgiving and resilient. Some great options include the Snake Plant (Sansevieria), ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), and Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum). These plants require minimal care, making them perfect for beginners. They also look fantastic in any home.

The frequency of watering will of course depend on the specific needs of each plant, the size of the plant, the pot you are using, the potting mix used, and the environment it's in. However a general rule of thumb is to check the top 2-3 cm (about 1 inch) of soil; if it's dry, it's usually time to water. It's essential though to research each plant's needs, as over-watering can be just as harmful as under-watering. As with everything houseplant related, it's all about balance and moderation.

Most houseplants thrive in bright, indirect light. A nice clear spot near a window that receives filtered sunlight for most of the day is ideal (if you can find it). However, some plants, like the ZZ Plant and Snake Plant, can tolerate lower light conditions, which is why we usually suggest them as a great beginner choice. Avoid placing your plants in direct, harsh sunlight as it can scorch their leaves. It goes without saying but equally don't leave your plants in dark spaces with low access to fresh air.

Common, easy to sport signs that your houseplant might need repotting include water draining quickly through the pot, roots growing through the drainage holes, and slowed growth. We always recommend repotting your plant every 1-2 years at a minimum for good practice, but this can vary depending on the plant's growth rate, pot size and of course every genus has different needs so make sure to factor that in.

This is a question we get asked a lot by new customers. There is usually a simple answer that we always advise: pots with drainage holes are essential for healthy houseplants as they prevent water from pooling at the bottom, which can lead to root rot. This is the main takeaway and we see it all the time. Ceramic, terracotta, or plastic pots are all suitable options and most of the time don't matter too much, but keep in mind that terracotta pots allow for more air and water flow, which can be beneficial for certain plants. We also think terracotta pots look the best, but that's just us.

Healthy houseplants are more often than not very easy to spot. Typically have vibrant, green leaves and show new growth during their growing season (bolder colours and lots of mini leaves sprouting). Yellowing leaves, drooping, or patchy spots are usually sure fire signs that your plant is stressed or diseased and need immediate attention. Monitoring your plants regularly and adjusting their care as needed can help keep them healthy and give them a longer lifespan.

Contrary to what many of our customers have asked in the past, yellow leaves can often be a sign of overwatering, as much as they are under-watering, or lack of nutrients in general. Firstly, check the soil moisture level and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. If over or under-watering is not the issue, try fertilizing your plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. This can often give your houseplant that little rejuvenating kick it needs to take on a new lease of life.

In short - yes! Studies have shown that houseplants can remove toxins from the air, increase humidity, and improve overall air quality in your home. Plants like the Spider Plant, Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum), and Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) are well known for their air-purifying abilities. That being said, don't expect your plant to suddenly clear your house air and for you to notice a stark difference. These are often very minor shifts in overall air levels and are much more of a marginal benefit.

Pests aren't always common, but when they strike its always a pain. If you notice pests, isolate the affected plant to prevent the pests from spreading. You can remove many pests by wiping the leaves with a solution of mild soap and water to begin with. For more persistent pests, you might need to use an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Always follow the product instructions for the best results and always be careful before you jump to a radical solution.

The $1 million question. Luckily, we have spent time researching, testing and sharing our experiences on all sorts of houseplant content. Our website is packed with detailed care guides for a wide variety of houseplants, which you can find on our Houseplant Hub. We would also actively encourage joining plant care forums such as on Reddit and social media groups on Facebook also can be a great way to learn from experienced plant owners and share your own experiences.