Growing Together: A Guide for Taking Care of Indoor Plants

Senior man takes care of houseplant with a spray bottle of water

Bringing nature indoors is a simple way to create a refreshing, inviting, and vibrant atmosphere in your home. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just beginning your indoor gardening journey, the right plants can brighten your space, improve the air quality, and boost your overall well-being.

Why Indoor Plants Are a Must-Have

Indoor plants do more than enhance your décor—they contribute to a healthier, happier home. Studies show that having greenery around can reduce stress, improve mood, and even boost cognitive function. Here are some powerful reasons to bring plants into your living space:

1. They Purify the Air

Certain plants act as natural air filters, absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. Some top air-purifying options include:

Snake Plant – Excellent at filtering airborne toxins
Peace Lily – Reduces mold spores and improves air quality
Spider Plant – Known for removing pollutants like carbon monoxide

2. They Lift Your Mood

Surrounding yourself with lush greenery has been linked to reduced anxiety, increased relaxation, and better mental clarity.

3. They Reduce Noise

Plants absorb sound, creating a quieter and more serene home—especially beneficial in communal living spaces.

4. They Regulate Humidity

By naturally releasing moisture into the air, plants help maintain a comfortable indoor climate, reducing dryness in colder months.

5. They Elevate Home Décor

Whether you prefer minimalist greenery or a lush indoor garden, there’s a plant to complement your aesthetic.

The Best Indoor Plants for Your Home at Crestwood Manor

Not all plants thrive indoors, but these easy-to-care-for varieties flourish in different conditions:

Snake Plant – Virtually indestructible and thrives in low light
Pothos – A fast-growing vine that adapts well to different lighting
Peace Lily – Requires moderate care and purifies the air
Spider Plant – Low-maintenance and excellent for improving air quality
ZZ Plant – Nearly indestructible, thriving in low-light conditions
Aloe Vera – Provides a soothing gel for burns and skincare
Fiddle Leaf Fig – Adds a bold, stylish statement to any room
Chinese Evergreen – Perfect for low-light spaces and comes in various colors

Essential Indoor Plant Care Tips

To keep your indoor plants thriving, follow these simple yet effective care tips:

1. Provide the Right Light

Place plants near windows with filtered sunlight or supplement them with grow lights.
If leaves turn yellow, it could indicate too much sunlight, while drooping leaves may mean more light is needed.

2. Water the Right Way

Overwatering is a common mistake. Most plants only need watering when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Use pots with drainage holes to prevent root rot.

3. Maintain Humidity

Indoor environments can become too dry, especially in winter. Prevent this by:
Misting plants occasionally
Using a humidity tray
Grouping plants together to retain moisture

4. Feed Your Plants

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
Consider slow-release fertilizers for long-term nourishment.

5. Repot When Necessary

If your plant’s roots are growing out of the drainage holes or the soil dries too quickly, it’s time for a new pot.

6. Watch for Pests

Common indoor plant pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids.
Wipe leaves with a mild soap solution or use insecticidal soap to prevent infestations.

Bringing the Outdoors In at Crestwood Manor

At Crestwood Manor, we know that nature has a calming and restorative effect. Our community embraces a green lifestyle, offering residents beautifully landscaped grounds, inviting indoor spaces, and opportunities to connect with nature. Come and see it firsthand with a personalized tour – we’d love to show you around!