Indoor Plants: How to Turn Your Apartment into an Oasis Without Much Effort

Have you ever dreamed of your own jungles right in the apartment? Of waking up surrounded by lush greenery, breathing fresh air? The good news is that turning your living space into a real oasis is easier than you think. And no, you don't need to be a botany expert or spend all weekends tending to your plants. Let's find out how to create a green paradise in a city apartment without turning it into a full-time job.

Main points from the article:

• Choose low-maintenance plants suited to conditions in your apartment;
• Proper lighting is the key to plant health;
• Don't overwater—this is a common mistake for beginners;
• Group plants to create a microclimate and visual effect;
• Use various levels and hanging planters to save space;
• Fertilizers and proper soil are important for long-term plant health;
• Some plants help purify the air in indoor spaces;
• Start with a few plants and gradually expand your collection.

Ekateryna Kuznetsova (SPOTTYKIT) BLOGGER, BIOLOGIST, AUTHOR OF BOOKS AND FOUNDING OWNER OF THE ROOM PLANTS STORE "GREEN HOME" LISTEN TO OUR PODCASTS WITH KATE (SPOTTYKIT):

• Podcast 1 Season 6 Episode: "The Most Important Thing Is That the Violet Is Happy"
• Podcast 2 Season 3 Episode: The Garden Is Under Threat! Hungry Slugs and "Grandma's Life Hacks"

Plant Selection: Start Simple

Transforming your apartment into an oasis begins with choosing the right plants. Forget about capricious orchids and demanding monstera. You need resilient fighters that will forgive occasional neglect and less than perfect conditions.

Here are some champions of survival:

• Sansevieria (Snake Plant): These guys are so low-maintenance that they can survive even in an office with artificial lighting.
• Zamiokulkas (Dollar Tree): Forgot to water? No problem. This plant stores water in its thick stems.
• Epipremnum (Pothos): Perfect for beginners. Grows fast and forgives many care mistakes.
• Dracaena: Variety of species allows you to choose a plant suitable for any interior.
• Ficus elastica: A classic. Large glossy leaves will add tropical flair to your apartment.

Lighting: Find the Perfect Spot

Proper lighting is half the success in growing indoor plants. But don't panic if you don't have huge windows from floor to ceiling. Many plants adapt well to various conditions.

General rule:

• Bright light suits succulents and most flowering plants.
• Partial shade is ideal for many tropical plants like monstera or philodendron.
• Shade is suitable for some ferns and aspidistra varieties.

Remember that even shade-tolerant plants need some light. If your apartment is really dark, consider using grow lights.

Design: TB.Design

Watering: Less Is More

Here's a secret: most indoor plants don't die from lack of water but from too much. Overwatering leads to root rot — and goodbye, green friend.

How to know when to water? Check the soil with your finger. If the top layer (2-3 cm) is dry — it's time to water. If still moist — wait.

Lifehack for forgetful gardeners: try the bottom watering method. Place the pot in a tray with water for 15-20 minutes, then drain excess water. This way, you won't overwater your plant.

Vertical Greening: Use the Walls

Space shortage is not a problem. Vertical greening allows you to create an impressive green corner even in a small apartment.

Try:

• Wall planters;
• Hanging baskets;
• Supports for climbing plants;
• Shelves with succulents.

A wall wrapped in ivy or pothos will become a real interior accent and attract attention from guests.

Grouping: Create Your Own Mini Jungles

Want your apartment to truly resemble an oasis? Group plants! It not only looks great but also creates a favorable microclimate.

Place several plants of different heights next to each other. Use stands to create various levels. Add a couple of hanging planters — and voilà, you have your own jungle corner!

Bonus: Grouped plants increase air humidity, which is especially useful in the heating season.

Design: Dasha and Dima Tretiyakova

Care: Simple Rules for Lazy Gardeners

Caring for plants shouldn't become a chore. Here are some simple rules that will help your green pets thrive:

• Dust: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth once a month. This is not only beautiful but also beneficial for plants.
• Fertilizing: Use liquid fertilizers once a month during active growth (spring-summer). Plants can go without feeding in winter.
• Pruning: Remove dry and yellowing leaves. This improves the plant's appearance and health.
• Repotting: Most plants only need repotting every 2-3 years. If roots are poking out of drainage holes — it's time for a new pot.

Air Purification: Plants as Natural Filters

Some plants are not only beautiful but also beneficial for health. They help purify the air from harmful substances emitted by furniture, household chemicals, and electronics.

Best air purifiers:

• Chlorophytum;
• Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily);
• Dracaena;
• Ficus Benjamina;
• Aloe Vera.

Place these plants in the bedroom or office and breathe clean air!

Design: Architecture Studio Chado

Tip from SPOTTYKIT: Don't be afraid to experiment! Start with a couple of low-maintenance plants and gradually expand your collection. Observe their growth, learn to understand their needs. Over time, you'll be surprised how easy and pleasant it is to care for indoor plants.

From Apartment to Oasis: Step-by-Step Plan

Ready to transform your apartment into a green paradise? Here's a simple action plan:

• Start with 2-3 low-maintenance plants. Get used to basic care.
• Determine the most suitable spots in your apartment for plants, considering lighting.
• Experiment with grouping plants. Create a mini-composition on the windowsill or coffee table.
• Try vertical greening. Hang planters or install wall shelves for plants.
• Gradually add new species, expanding your collection.
• Don't forget about regular but not excessive care.

Remember, creating a home oasis is not a sprint but a marathon. Don't try to turn your apartment into jungles in one day. Enjoy the process, experiment, and learn from your plants.

Transforming an apartment into a green oasis is not only a way to decorate the interior but also an opportunity to create your own nature corner in urban jungles. This can become an excellent hobby, a source of relaxation, and even boost your productivity.

So don't be afraid to start your green adventure. Who knows, maybe soon your friends will come not just for visits but also for excursions to your home jungles!

Cover: Design Project TB.Design