We all gotta start somewhere, but let’s not kick off your plant journey with a funeral.

Step 1: Research—Don’t Just Grab & Go

Before you impulsively spend that bread, ask yourself:

    •    What’s my light situation? Pull out your phone’s compass:

    •    North – Weak, indirect light (Grow - lamp haven)

    •    East – Soft morning sun (gentle vibes)

    •    South – Strong, all-day sun (sun lovers only)

    •    West – Blazing afternoon sun (be ready)

    •    What’s my lifestyle?

    •    Always on the go? Get a plant that doesn’t need constant check-ins.

    •    Home a lot? You can manage one that needs a little extra love.

    •    Humidity check!

    •    Some plants don’t care. Others (cough ferns cough) will straight-up crumble if the air is too dry.

    •    Vents & heaters? They suck the moisture out of the air—plan accordingly.

    •    Got pets? Some plants are toxic—don’t make Fluffy your test subject.

Step 2: Shop Small, Shop Smart

Skip the big-box plant section. Small shopkeepers actually care for their plants—watering, pruning, and placing them where they’ll thrive—because it’s their job, not just an assignment. They know their stuff, and you get healthier plants while supporting a small business. Win-win.

Step 3: Pick Your First Plant

Keep reading for 3 low maintenance options!

1. Snake Plant

• Low effort, high reward. 

• Can handle missed waterings and still look good.

• Sleek, upright leaves give a clean, modern vibe.

2. Pothos

    •    Practically indestructible.

    •    Handles low light, grows fast, and won’t throw a fit if you forget a watering.

    •    Trails beautifully—perfect for shelves or hanging spots.

3. ZZ Plant

• Water-storing rhizomes (those little potato-looking things) make it super resilient.

• Can thrive in low light and doesn’t need frequent watering.

• If you need a plant that just exists without a lot of effort, this is your buddy.

Step 4: Make It Cute

    •    Pick a plant that fits your vibe—color, texture, size, all that.

    •    Drainage matters! No drainage hole? Layer rocks before adding soil.

    •    Plastic pots got pre-punched holes? Poke ‘em through with a screwdriver—problem solved.

Final Tip: Stay Informed, Stay Alive

Nobody is a “bad plant parent.” It’s all about matching the right plant to your space and lifestyle. Learn what works, and soon you’ll have a thriving indoor jungle instead of a plant cemetery.

At The ZEN Succulent, we know that finding the right plant as a beginner can make all the difference. If you're just starting your plant journey, consider easy-care favorites like Snake Plant, Pothos, and ZZ Plant—low-maintenance options that thrive in a variety of conditions.

Already have a go-to beginner plant? Drop a comment or tag us with your favorites. Let’s grow together!