Houseplant Basics

A house is just not a home without a lush selection of plants. Most houseplants don't demand much time or attention, and they can look attractive for years...when treated properly. If you love the idea of showing off a healthy, flourishing indoor garden (like the ones pictured here), then these are the basics you must know for cultivating happy plants. To get the most from them, it's important to understand how similar species live in the wild, and to meet their compost, lighting, humidity, and temperature needs in both winter and summer. There's richly illustrated information on siting and display; containers; propagation from seed, cuttings, and more; watering; feeding and repotting; grooming, and care. Most important of all is making the right choice at the start, and a planter's guide takes your through different types in detail, including ones that flower or have foliage; bulbs; palms, ferns, and bromeliad; and cacti and succulents. Whether your plant is small and potted, trailing and cascading, or floor standing, you'll see how to create a good display and grouping. Plus: all your houseplant problems solved with troubleshooting tips!

Plants make a house feel like a home, but only if you know the basics that will make them thrive! Meet their needs and they will reward you with strong growth, healthy leaves, and beautiful flowers. Follow the simple instructions for different varieties here, whether it's bright and cheerful flowering plants or appealing cacti and succulents. Get the details on displaying, feeding, and repotting, and you will be rewarded by the results. And get the best from your plants with these troubleshooting tips.