And now the final article in my series on un-kill-able plants. For all the people who’ve told me that their garden is brown, there are at least two people who’ve told me that they kill houseplants. It’s even become something of an internet meme. But there really are a few house-plants that simply cannot die. I’ve tried killing them. I really have. So if you can’t seem to keep your plants alive, this article is for you.
Kalanchoe
Originally from Madagascar, Kalanchoes are mostly found in semi-arid or arid landscapes. Their bright flowers, and deep green succulent leaves are sure to brighten any room, and they are near indestructible! I was once pruning one of ours (we have several) and left a branch on a window sill for weeks. It was completely dry, but the MINUTE it came in contact with moisture, it sprouted new leaves and roots! It was the most astounding thing I’d ever seen. While they are un-kill-able, they need the right amount of light and fertilizer in order to thrive and flower indoors. Make sure they have a good soil mixture and indoor fertilizer (I recommend Miracle Grow). Water the soil once weekly, giving it just enough moisture that it’s about as wet as a wrung-out rag, and they should remain happy and healthy plants.
Aloe
Most of us who know anything about plants know about the aloe vera plant, famous for its healing qualities. They, and many of their close relatives, are extremely easy to keep in your home. I’ve never had one die on me. Given proper watering (about 1/3 cup once a week should do it) they should live and thrive for many years.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are a trailing vine from tropical America with mottled-green, heart-shaped leaves. This may be one of the most indestructible plants on this list. Put ‘em in a sunny room and they will grow and spread. 1/2-1 cup of water a week, and they might even take over a room if you let them!
Crown of thorns
The crown of thorns is an arid-climate plant from Cambodia, which, as the name suggests, has a very thorny stem. Probably the only drawback to this otherwise great houseplant. As an arid plant, they can go for weeks without water! But that being said, don’t push it. 1/3 cup a week should be enough to keep them healthy, depending on how big your plant is. Put them by a bright window, and you should expect white flowers all through winter. I hope this list was helpful for you as you attempt to find your niche in the plant world. Please feel free to comment about your own experiences below, I’m happy to hear from you. Happy planting!
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Last time I wrote to you, my dear readers,I gave you a list of un-kill-able garden plants, mostly flowers and ornamentals. Today, I’m adding four vegetables to that list. These veggies are ones that I’ve found are virtually idiot-proof! A child could grow them! So let’s get right to it.
Well, that rounds out the un-kill-able veggies. I wish you all the success in the world with your gardening efforts this season. Happy planting! |
AuthorI'm Ian Wilson, a slightly eccentric amateur horticulturist bumbling his way through the garden. Archives
October 2021
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