Potted plants are a great way for seniors to enjoy the outdoors without having to do too much strenuous activity.
They can be placed on a patio, balcony, or even in a garden and provide beauty and relaxation.
One of the benefits of having potted plants is that they act as natural air purifiers. Plants help to remove toxins and pollutants from the air, making it cleaner and healthier to breathe.
An indoor container garden is a great way for seniors to enjoy the beauty of plants without having to worry about getting down on their hands and knees to garden.
By planting in pots, seniors can easily move their plants around to get the perfect amount of sunlight or to show off their favorite blooms.
While there are many different types of potted plants available, some are better suited for seniors than others.
Here are a few of the best options:
- Herbs – Herbs are a great option for seniors who want to add a little bit of flavor to their cooking. Basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme are all good choices.
- Fruits and vegetables – Fruits and vegetables can also be grown in pots. This is a great way for seniors to get their daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes, strawberries, peppers, and eggplants are all good choices.
- Flowers – Flowers brighten up any space and can provide a bit of color to an otherwise drab area. Geraniums, petunias, impatiens , and marigolds are all good choices.
- Succulents – Succulents can be the best thing for those who don’t happen to have a green thumb. Cacti, aloe vera, and snake plants are all good succulents to grow in pots.
Potted house plants are a great way for seniors to add a bit of life to their indoor space.
They can also be relatively easy to take care of, which is important for seniors who may not be able to handle more high maintenance plants.
What Are The Easiest Potted Plants To Take Care Of?
For older adults, the mantra should be “the easier the better”. At least that’s what I think. So, when it comes to caring for indoor plants, what are the easiest plants to take care of?
Here are 8 super easy choices…
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera plants are popular for a reason: they’re easy to care for and an excellent choice for older adults. They require little water, can tolerate low light, and only need to be fertilized once a year.
2. Snake plant
Snake plants are practically indestructible and can tolerate just about any type of neglect. They’re perfect for busy people who often forget to water their plants. Snake plants also don’t need much light, making them ideal for rooms with little natural light.
3. Spider plant
Spider plants are one of the easiest houseplants to care for. They’re very tolerant of neglect and can survive in a wide range of light and water conditions. Spider plants also produce lots of offsets, or baby plants, that you can pot up and give to friends.
4. Ponytail palm
Ponytail palms are drought tolerant and can survive long periods without water. They prefer bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light conditions. These plants are also very slow growing, so they’ll stay small and won’t need to be re-potted often.
5. Chinese evergreen
The Chinese evergreen is a slow-growing plant that does not require much care. It is tolerant of low light and can go long periods without water.
6. Warneckii dracaena
This tough, low-maintenance plant is perfect for busy seniors. The warneckii dracaena can survive in a wide range of conditions, making it ideal for those who may not be able to provide optimal care.
It is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great choice for seniors who want to improve their indoor air quality.
7. ZZ plants
The ZZ plant is a slow-growing plant that does not require much care. It is tolerant of low light and can go long periods without water. These plants also don’t need to be fertilized often.
The plants listed above are some of the easiest to take care of. They do not require much light or water and can go long periods without being fertilized. These plants are ideal for seniors who want to enjoy the beauty of plants without having to put in a lot of work.
8. Rubber Tree
One popular type of potted plant is the rubber tree. Rubber trees are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. If you’re thinking about getting a rubber tree, be sure to research how big it will get at maturity so you can choose the appropriate pot size.
What Are The Best Indoor Plant For Beginners?
If you or a senior loved one is just beginning to learn about caring for indoor plants , there are a few varieties that make excellent choices for beginners.
These plants are relatively easy to care for and don’t require a lot of attention to thrive.
Here are 10 of the best indoor plants for beginners:
1. Peace Lilies
If you are looking for a plant that is both easy to care for and beautiful, then consider the peace lily. Peace lilies are known for their beautiful white flowers and their ability to thrive in low-light conditions.
2. Bamboo Plants
Bamboo plants are a great option for seniors, as they are easy to care for and require very little maintenance. Additionally, bamboo plants can help purify the air and create a relaxing atmosphere.
3. Palms
Palm trees are another popular choice for seniors. Palms are known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions and their ability to filter out toxins from the air. They are also very effective at providing shade and cooling indoor spaces.
4. Ferns
Ferns are a type of plant that can be found in many different climates. They range in size from small potted plants to large trees. Ferns have been around for centuries and are a popular choice for seniors.
Ferns are known for their ability to thrive in shady areas. This makes them a great option for seniors who live in apartments or homes with limited sunlight. Ferns are also low-maintenance, which is another plus for seniors.
While ferns come in many different varieties, some of the most popular types for seniors include Boston ferns, Asparagus ferns, and Maidenhair ferns.
5. Monstera
This large leafy plant is a great addition to any home, and can even grow up to six feet tall! Monstera plants are easy to care for, and only need to be watered once a week. They thrive in indirect sunlight, making them perfect for seniors who live in apartments or homes with limited exposure to natural light.
6. Pothos
Pothos is a common houseplant that is very easy to care for. It does well in low light and can even tolerate some shade. Pothos is also a great plant for seniors because it is very tolerant of neglect. It can go several weeks without being watered and still look healthy.
7. Sansevieria
If you’re looking for a sturdier, more resilient plant, look no further than the sansevieria. Also known as the snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue, this African native is practically indestructible.
It can withstand neglect and poor lighting conditions, making it an ideal choice for seniors who may not be able to care for a more delicate plant.
Sansevieria is also known for its air-purifying properties, so it’s a great choice if your loved one wants to improve the quality of their indoor air.
8. Philodendron
This plant is perfect for those who want to add a touch of greenery to their home but don’t have a lot of time to care for plants. The philodendron is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in most indoor environments.
9. Ficus
Ficus plants are popular indoor trees that can provide your home with some much-needed greenery. They’re also easy to care for, which makes them a great option for seniors.
Ficus trees need bright, indirect light and should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. These plants are also relatively low-maintenance, so you won’t need to worry about them too much.
10. Prayer Plants
While the name might not sound too spiritual, prayer plants are perfect for those looking for a bit of greenery in their religious space. These plants are known to grow well in low-light conditions and can even survive in bathrooms that don’t have any windows.
If you’re looking for a plant that will thrive indoors, the prayer plant is a good option.
So, if you’re starting to introduce indoor plants to a home with senior citizens, consider these plants that we’ve listed. They are perfect for anyone who is looking for an easy-to-care-for plant that doesn’t require a lot of work.
What Are Plants That Don’t Need Sunlight?
There are some homes and apartments that just don’t have much sunlight. If that’s the case in your home, you’re probably wondering what types of plants will do well without much sunlight. Luckily, there are plenty of options!
Here are 13 of the best plants that don’t need sunlight:
Note: You’ll notice that some of these I already mentioned above.
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant, which means it stores water in its leaves. This makes it a great choice for homes with little sunlight, as it can survive for long periods of time without water.
2. Snake Plant
The snake plant, or Sansevieria, is a succulent that can thrive in low-light conditions. This makes it a great option for seniors who may not be able to get as much sunlight as they used to. Snake plants are also easy to care for, requiring little watering and minimal maintenance.
3. Boston Fern
Boston ferns can do well with little sunlight, but they prefer filtered light and high humidity. If you are growing a Boston fern indoors, make sure to place it in an east- or north-facing window. You can also increase the humidity around your fern by setting it on a pebble tray or grouping it with other plants.
4. Peace Lily
The peace lily is a beautiful plant that can thrive in low-light conditions, making it a perfect option for seniors who want to enjoy the beauty of plants without having to worry about too much maintenance.
Peace lilies are also known for their ability to purify the air, so they can help create a healthy environment in your home.
5. Spider Plant
Yes, spider plants can do well with little sunlight. They are native to tropical and sub-tropical regions and can tolerate low light conditions. However, they will grow best if they are given some direct sunlight each day.
6. Bromeliad
Bromeliads are a great choice for seniors who want to add some greenery to their home but don’t have a lot of sunlight to work with. These plants can do well with as little as four hours of indirect sunlight per day, making them perfect for rooms that get only partial sun exposure.
These plants come in a wide variety of colors and shapes, so you’re sure to find one that fits your taste. Plus, they’re easy to care for – just be sure to keep an eye on the water level in their pot, as they can dry out quickly.
7. Cast Iron Plants
Yes, cast iron plants are perfect for seniors who may not have the time or ability to provide full sun exposure. These plants can thrive in low-light conditions and can even tolerate brief periods of darkness.
8. Dracaena
Dracaena plants are very tolerant of low light conditions and can even thrive in locations that receive only indirect sunlight. However, if you want your plant to produce new growth, it will need a bit more light. Place your dracaena plant in an east- or west-facing window for the best results.
9. Dumb Cane
Dumb cane plants can do well with little sunlight, but they will grow more slowly. If you are looking for a plant that doesn’t require much sunlight, dumb cane would be a good choice.
10. English Ivy
This plant is a great option for seniors because it is very easy to take care of. English ivy does not require a lot of sunlight and can even grow in shaded areas. It is also a great plant for those who have allergies because it is not known to cause any reactions.
11. Parlor Palm
The Parlor Palm is one of the most popular houseplants and for good reason: it is super easy to care for. This slow-growing plant can reach up to 6 feet tall, but is often much smaller when grown indoors.
Parlor palms prefer bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light conditions. These versatile plants are also drought tolerant, making them a great choice for seniors who might forget to water their plants on occasion.
12. Maidenhair Fern
There’s something about maidenhair ferns that just scream old-timey Hollywood glamour. Perhaps it’s their lacy, delicate fronds, or the way they seem to whisper “come closer” when you walk by them.
Whatever the reason, these ferns make an elegant addition to any home, and they’re especially well-suited for seniors.
Maidenhair ferns are low-maintenance plants that do best in indirect light and humid conditions. They’re sensitive to changes in their environment, so it’s best to keep them in a consistent spot where they won’t be disturbed.
These ferns like to stay moist, so be sure to water them regularly, and mist them with a plant sprayer if the air in your home is particularly dry.
13. Amazon elephant ear
The Amazon elephant ear (Alocasia amazonica) is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae. It is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, and is also grown as an ornamental plant in other parts of the world.
The Amazon elephant ear gets its name from its large, heart-shaped leaves which are reminiscent of elephant ears. This plant is a popular houseplant due to its easy care requirements and its ability to thrive in low-light conditions.
What Houseplants Thrive On Neglect?
Now, some households with seniors who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease may need indoor plants that don’t get consistent care. They may forget to water their plants or even pull them up by the roots!
Or, maybe the senior resident doesn’t have a green thumb but would still like to enjoy the beauty of living plants in their home. If this is the case, then what are some of the best houseplants for neglect?
Here are 11 tough houseplants that can withstand a little neglect:
1. Pilea Peperomioides
Houseplants are excellent decoration for any home, but some can be more difficult than others. If you’re looking to invest your time in an easy-care plant that won’t take up too much space on top of the weekly chores needed with other house plants then look no further!
The Pilea peperomioides is just one such choice. It’s a perfect choice for someone who wants a little bit of greenery in their home without too much work.
2. Umbrella plant
This hardy plant is known for its resistance to drought and can prosper in both full sun or partial shade. It’s perfect for busy seniors who might forget to water their plants regularly!
Umbrella plants are low maintenance and easy to care for. They add gracefully cut leaves into any room, without taking up too much space or requiring much sunlight!
3. Neanthe Bella Palm
This tropical looking plant requires watering every 7 to 10 days making it a fairly hearty plant.
The Neanthe Bella Palm is the perfect plant for any home. It can adapt to just about anything, and its small size makes it easy to grow in spaces that other plants would require more light or room on their own!
4. Heartleaf Philodendron
The heartleaf philodendron is not just easy-going, it’s also one of the most beautiful plants in your home! The leaves are shaped like an open book and will shine with vibrant color if given enough light.
If you want something that requires little maintenance but still looks good every day then this one could be perfect for you.
5. Christmas cactus
The Christmas Cacti are a perfect houseplant for those who want to keep their homes cool and calm during the warmer months. These succulents produce colorful, tubular flowers in pink or lilac colors that bloom long after they first appear on your windowsill!
Their beauty will fill you with joy every time it blooms—and at only 10 minutes of sun exposure per day (or less!), this plant is easy-care too!.
6. Succulents
These water-retaining plants come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes and are very easy to care for. They do require sunlight but otherwise do not require much watering at all.
This makes them fairly easy to thrive even when they are a bit neglected.
7. Air plants
These unique plants don’t even need soil to grow, just a little misting of water now and then.
Air plants are the perfect addition to any home because they require no soil and only air. Plus, their leafy growths can look like an alien creature from another world or just seem normal in comparison!
8. Bird of Paradise
The bird of paradise is a stunning plant that will definitely liven up any room. It’s also relatively easy to care for, which is great for seniors who don’t want to fuss over their plants too much. Just make sure to keep it in a bright spot and water it regularly.
9. Rattlesnake Plant
If you’re looking for a plant that’s easy to care for and can thrive in both sun and shade, look no further than the rattlesnake plantain (Goodyera pubescens). This evergreen perennial is native to North America and can reach up to two feet in height.
The leaves of the plant are lance-shaped and have a silvery-white stripe down the center. The flowers are small and green, and they bloom in the summer.
10. Jade Plants
The jade plant is a popular houseplant and it’s said to bring good luck. They need bright light but can tolerate some direct sun, and they should be allowed to dry out between watering. Jade plants are also known as money plants, so they make a great gift for seniors who are looking to add a little extra luck to their lives.
11. African Violets
African violets are a type of potted plant that is popular among seniors. They are easy to care for and don’t require a lot of sunlight or water. African violets can be found in many different colors, so you can choose one that matches your decor.
While some plants need more sunlight or water than others, there are plenty of low-maintenance options to choose from.
So whether you’re looking for a plant to spruce up your home or office, or you’re searching for the perfect gift for a green-thumbed senior in your life, be sure to check out the wide selection of potted plants available.
Potted plants are a great option for seniors who want to enjoy the beauty of nature without having to put in a lot of work.
There are many varieties of plants that require minimal care, making them perfect for busy or less mobile individuals.
What Is The Best Plant For A Bathroom Without Windows?
Maybe you want to spruce up your bathroom with indoor plants. That’s great! But what if your bathroom doesn’t have a window? Are there plants that can survive or do well in windowless rooms?
The answer is yes! While most plants need some sunlight to grow, there are plenty of options that can thrive in low-light environments.
Here are a some of our favorites:
- Aloe Vera
- Snake Plant
- Bamboo Palm
- Boston Fern
- Cast Iron Plant
- Peace Lilies
- Philodendrons
- Spider Plants
- English Ivy
There are more and you can check with your local nursery as to what is available in your area and what would do well in a windowless room.
Potted plants are a great way for seniors to reap the health benefits of plants and to enjoy the indoors without having to do too much work to care for them.
There are many different kinds of potted plants that are easy to care for and don’t require a lot of maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my house plants?
Water your potted plants when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to over water, as this can lead to root rot. One important thing to remember when watering potted plants is to never let the plant sit in water.
What type of potting soil should I use for my potted plants?
You should use a high-quality potting mix that is light and airy. Avoid using garden soil, as it can be too heavy and compacted for potted plants.
What type of fertilizer should I use for my potted plants?
Fertilize your potted plants every two weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer packaging.
My potted plant leaves are turning yellow. What is wrong?
Yellow leaves can be a sign of over- or under-watering, or it could be a sign that the plant is not getting enough light. If you think your plant is over watered, allow the soil to dry out before watering again.