When it comes to houseplants, most people will want to choose plants that require less care. However, if you want to become a professional houseplant parent, you might want to try picking one of the most difficult houseplants to keep alive.
Already surrounded by lush plants that prevent condensation, but looking for a new leafy plant challenge? Then these 5 houseplants considered the most difficult to keep alive are just for you. It's what you need.
On the other hand, if you're struggling to even manage how to clean the leaves of your plants, this list will serve as a compilation of “plants you shouldn't buy.” Instead, choose one of the easiest houseplants to grow.
According to gardening experts, these are the top five most difficult houseplants to keep alive, whether you're a professional or a beginner.
5 houseplants that are the most difficult to keep alive
Sometimes we go to the garden center and accidentally choose the most demanding houseplant there without even realizing it. So, before choosing a leafy friend, be sure to understand how much responsibility it is responsible for as it is one of the best scented plants to make your home smell good.
After all, there's nothing worse than spending money on a plant and watching it slowly die.
1. Orchid
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Probably one of the most well-known and difficult plants. Although orchids are beautiful and classic, they are one of the most demanding species in the plant world, and knowing how to care for them can sometimes seem impossible.
As told by MyJobQuote's professional gardener Fiona Jenkins, “Orchids are some of the most beautiful houseplants, but they're also the plants most likely to die on your windowsill.”
The reason these spectacular flowering plants are so difficult to care for is because of their harsh natural habitat and the difficulties involved in reproducing them.
Fiona said: “Caring is not too complicated as long as the conditions are right, but it is difficult to recreate natural habitats, so it is sadly very easy to do the wrong thing and end up with a kill.'' “It's easy.”
Orchids are tropical plants that grow naturally on trees and rocks, so it's really no surprise that they struggle to survive inside our homes. Fiona explains that the key to a healthy orchid is to plant it in a pot with loose bark so the roots can breathe and you don't overwater.Experts also recommend that indirect sunlight and just Enough humidity to relax in the tropics!
2. Bonsai
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If you don't have a lot of time and it's hard to even stick to a lawn mowing frequency, a bonsai tree is your worst nightmare.
This iconic tree requires careful attention to watering, pruning and repotting, says two-time award-winning florist David Denyer. “Most importantly, root pruning is necessary to maintain a small size, but this is not a regular undertaking that many plant owners know is not done properly. This can cause the roots to become tangled and unable to absorb water.
However, if you're looking for a green thumb challenge and have the time to invest, there are some steps you can take to make the process easier and more rewarding. David recommends using a special bonsai soil mix of sand and perlite. This is also to improve drainage and protect the plant's roots from waterlogging.
“Like many other plants, bonsai also fall victim to pests and diseases. To ensure that your bonsai tree has a prosperous life, be sure to choose the variety, as each variety has its own needs and requirements. Look into it,” he says.
3. Fiddle Leaf Fig
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Looking for a way to bring good energy into your home? Large leafy plants are a great source of good vibes and physical tranquility, but if you want the peace to last longer, try fiddle leaf fig. Trees may not be your best bet.
“More than half of fiddle leaf fig tree owners don't keep their trees alive,” says Fiona. This is because this plant is very temperamental, and even moving the tree from one room to another can stress it enough to cause it to die. Is it dramatic or what?
Sensitive plants require constant bright light, a very strict watering schedule, and constant medium to high humidity levels with regular misting. “If you can manage this plant's diva, you'll have lush foliage and a stately houseplant to be proud of,” says Fiona.
4. Gardenia
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A somewhat innocent-looking plant, gardenias make a very cute addition to any home and are a great way to make your home smell good thanks to their fragrant flowers.
Despite these advantages, David was quick to warn about the diva reputation that the seemingly righteous plant had acquired for itself. “Unlike many other plants, the plant requires acidic soil, bright indirect light, cool temperatures, and very high humidity,” he says.
Ever wonder how on earth you can create acidic soil? David suggests adding a special fertilizer formulated specifically for gardenias, but warns to use it sparingly, as too much can damage the roots.
If that doesn't worry you, you also need to create the perfect environment for your plants. To do this, find a place that maintains a constant mid-ground temperature and place a humidifier nearby.
5. Zebra Plant
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If you are still trying to understand why the tips of your peace lily turn brown, you may not be ready to care for a zebra just yet.
“This stunning plant requires a specific temperature range, constant humidity and precise watering, making it difficult for the inexperienced to keep houseplants alive,” says Paul Hill Garden Center Director. Josh Novel explains.
While zebra plants are difficult to care for, their uniquely patterned leaves make them attractive to homeowners, making them perfect for fans of maximalist interiors. If you can't decide which one to choose, Josh has some advice. “To give your zebra plant the best chance of survival, place it in a warm, bright spot with indirect sunlight,” he says.
Also, try to maintain a constant temperature and high humidity using a pebble tray or humidifier while misting the leaves with warm water. Josh also points out how important it is to water thoroughly whenever the soil surface dries out to avoid water seeping into the plants.
Why not take on a high-maintenance plant? It's really rewarding to be able to care for one of the hardiest houseplants, but we totally understand sticking with one of the easiest houseplants to grow. doing. I'm sure it will.