Top 10 plants for you

Plants are a great addition to any space and are scientifically proven to make people feel happier. They can be an amazing way for students to decorate on a budget and personalize their space. From plant type to the colour or pattern of the pot, it can get a little bit stressful to decide what you want! If you’re on the search for a new plant friend, you’re in the right place.

Cacti and Succulents

If you’re constantly on the go but want to add some greenery to your space, try purchasing a cactus or succulent. These are perhaps some of the easiest plants to care for because they don’t require much maintenance. Put them in a spot that will get bright light and allow the soil to dry before watering. Over watering is a sure way to kill them. But be weary of keeping cacti on your bedside table. Next to your alarm clock may not be the ideal spot for these spiky friends.

Lucky Bamboo

This lucky plant is very easy to care for and actually filters toxins out of the air. Keep in mind that when lucky bamboo is exposed to direct sunlight, the leaves can get damaged by the sun. Keep your bamboo in a vase full of water and in a low to medium light setting. Don’t forget to have fun with it and decorate your vase with coloured pebbles.

Tillandsia

Tillandsia are colloquially known as airplants. These little guys are the perfect addition to any terrarium and look absolutely adorable on their own as well. The best thing about airplants is that they do not require soil and can be cared for by spritzing water on them every day or two, or soaking them for about an hour every 2-3 weeks.

Ferns

Ferns are the perfect plant to fern-ish any space. They thrive with humidity, so keep their soil moist and allow them medium-bright light. Ferns are actually natural humidifiers and can make Calgary air a little bit more bearable.

Aloe Vera

Like cacti and succulents, aloe vera loves bright light! Try to keep it near a window but don’t let the soil get too dry. This plant is a little bit more fussy when it comes to watering, so make sure your aloe vera isn’t sitting in water and take proper drainage into account. Plus, the gooey insides of the leaves is said to help heal burns!

ZZ Plant

Like cacti, the ZZ plant is extremely hard to kill and great for people who are forgetful or travel often. Water the ZZ plant when the soil becomes dry. The best part is, no matter what your lighting situation is in your home or residence, this plant can thrive! It can even survive under fluorescent lighting.

Broadleaf Thyme

This plant is truly resilient, has a pleasing aroma, and can be used in the kitchen! Keep it away from the window as it does best in medium-bright light. Another reason to keep it away from windows is that it doesn’t do well in the cold. Broadleaf thyme is not picky about water, so give it a bit every couple of days and it will do just fine. Enjoy the smell and have fun in the kitchen!

Haworthia

Though this is a type of succulent, it looks a lot different than many succulents you can find. The unique zebra-like pattern on the leaves makes a great base for a funky terrarium. Haworthias can be treated like any other succulent with minimal water and bright sunlight.

Lavender

If you are a fan of flowers, a lavender plant may be the perfect fit for you! Lavender is sure to freshen up your room, but requires a lot of sunlight. Without much sunlight in your home, lavender likely won’t thrive.

Fake Plants

If you have killed numerous cacti and find that you have a murderous touch, this option may be your best bet. Even though I am a plant lover and have a green thumb, if I see a beautiful fake plant, I won’t pass it up. For tall shelves or hanging planters that can be tough to reach, fake plants come in handy so you are not constantly trying to balance on a chair every time you go to water them. They are stress and hassle free, yet still add beauty to any room. There are so many different styles, so find what you enjoy most! You can find some really lovely fake plants and flowers at thrift stores, craft stores, and online.

For ideal plant health, fertilize your plants every three or four months with a general fertilizer. If one of your plants starts getting brown tips or looking particularly droopy don’t be afraid to ask an expert or research more!