These houseplants pretty much take care of themselves.
Blaine Moats
If you travel often and are away from home for long periods of time, keeping houseplants might feel out of reach. Fortunately, there are a handful of resilient houseplants that can thrive with minimal effort and attention. Whether you are away for days or weeks at a time, there is always a houseplant that suits you and your busy schedule.
Related: BHG Editors’ Favorite Finds: Travel Essentials We Swear By
Jacob Vos
1. Snake plant
The snake plant is one of the top contenders for the most low-maintenance houseplant option available. This plant only needs to be watered every two to three weeks and can grow in a variety of lighting conditions, from low to bright indirect light.
How do you care for a snake plant?
Although snake plants can thrive with little water and low light, they do best when watered consistently and in brighter light. The keys are to:
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Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
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To prevent this, avoid too much water root rot.
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Place in bright but indirect sunlight for optimal growth.
Related: 4 steps to follow to water your potted plants while on vacation
Jacob Vos
2. Philodendron
Philodendrons They are incredibly adaptable plants, capable of surviving under ideal conditions. There are several types to choose from, including upright and trailing varieties. They all prefer indirect light situations and tolerate dry spells. If their leaves wilt a little, they will perk up quickly after watering.
How do you care for Philodendron?
Overwatering is more likely to cause problems for your philodendron than overwatering. Use these tips to keep your plant healthy:
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Water every two weeks, less in winter.
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Place in bright, indirect light.
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Provide regular fertilization in spring and summer.
Marty Baldwin
3. Aloe Vera
With long, narrow, succulent leaves, aloe vera is a striking yet very low-maintenance houseplant. It prefers to dry out between waterings, making it an excellent choice for people who are often away from home.
How do you care for Aloe Vera?
Growing aloe vera is easy enough if you keep these guidelines in mind:
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Water deeply, but not often; every three weeks is often enough.
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Place in bright, indirect light.
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Make sure the pot has good drainage and use a succulent potting soil to prevent root rot.
Related: The 5 best soil for succulents of 2024
Jacob Vos
4. Pothos
Pothos is a versatile and easy-to-care plant that can adapt to different environments. The hanging vines and heart-shaped leaves can grow in both dim and bright indirect light. Pothos tolerates some neglect, including long stretches between waterings.
How do you care for Pothos?
Pothos plants do best when they receive the following care:
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Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
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Place in bright indirect light.
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Allow the vines to trail downward or cut back the stems regularly for a fuller appearance.
Related: 16 Best Indoor Vine Plants to Create a Jungle Feel
Dean Schoeppner
5. ZZ factory
The ZZ factory is another favorite houseplant among travelers. The waxy, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance to any room, and it is almost impossible to kill; this plant can survive for a month or more without water.
How do you care for ZZ Plant?
Keep your ZZ plant blooming by following these care tips:
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Place in medium to bright indirect light.
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Make sure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.
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Water once every two to three weeks.
Blaine Moats
6. Peace lily
With their white flowers and lush, dark green leaves, peace lilies may look delicate, but they are not needy houseplants. If you forget to water them occasionally, they will bounce back quickly after watering.
How to ensure peace Lily
Peace lilies prefer consistently moist soil and should be kept out of direct sunlight. Keep your plant looking its best with these tips:
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Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
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Place in low to bright indirect light.
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Use a humidifier like the leaves develop brown tips.
Related: The 6 best humidifiers for plants, according to tests
Jason Donnelly
7. Succulents
Many varieties Succulents make excellent low-maintenance houseplants for travelers, thanks to their water storage capabilities. They come in different shapes, sizes and colors, but most don’t require much water or other care.
Related: 12 unique succulents to distinguish your houseplant collection
How do you care for succulents?
Although succulents tolerate dry conditions better than most other houseplants, they still need some water. The key is not to overdo it. Keep these tips in mind for best results:
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Water deeply, but not often; once every two to four weeks is usually sufficient.
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Place in bright, indirect sunlight; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burns.
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Use cactus or succulent soil for the best drainage.
Related: 15 essential home tasks to tick off before going on holiday