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The Top Must-Have Houseplants for Winter: Collector Favorites & Easy-Care Picks

Platt Hill Nursery — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 20:56:13 +0000

Why Winter Is Hard on Houseplants

Winter in Chicagoland can be especially rough on your indoor plants. With fewer hours of daylight, cooler window zones, and dry furnace heat pumping through the house, your leafy friends are dealing with a lot more than meets the eye.

Many houseplants naturally slow their growth in the colder months. It’s their way of adapting to the season, even indoors. But that also means they become more sensitive to overwatering, light changes, and dry air.

If you’ve noticed leaves turning yellow, edges going crispy, or plants looking generally tired during winter, you’re not alone. These are common signs that your plants are reacting to the seasonal shift. The good news is, by understanding what they’re up against and choosing the right winter-friendly varieties, you can keep your space full of healthy, happy greenery all season long.

Quick Summary: What Makes a Houseplant a Good Winter Choice

Why Winter Is Hard on Houseplants

Quick Summary: What Makes a Houseplant a Good Winter Choice

Tolerates Low Light

With fewer daylight hours and cloudy skies, plants that can thrive in indirect or filtered light are ideal for winter.

Adaptable to Temperature Changes

Choose plants that won’t react strongly to occasional cold drafts or warm furnace zones.

Handles Dry Indoor Air

Central heating can drop humidity levels fast. Look for plants that don’t require high moistrure to stay healthy.

Compact and Space-Friendly

Smaller plants or those with upright growth habits fit easily in cozy indoor spaces during the colder months.

Slower Growth or Winter Dormancy

Many indoor plants naturally slow down in winter, making them lower maintenance during this time.

Tough and Forgiving

Hardy plants can handle missed waterings, light changes, or drier conditions without showing stress.

Collector-Favorite Houseplants That Thrive in Winter

Winter is the perfect time to show off your standout plants. While some houseplants slow down in the colder months, others continue to thrive indoors with the right conditions. If you’re a collector or someone who enjoys a more curated indoor plant setup, these favorites bring personality and color to your space when the outdoors is anything but green.

Alocasia Frydek Variegated

This eye-catching plant features velvety dark leaves with bright, white variegation. It prefers bright, indirect light and appreciates higher humidity, especially during the dry indoor season. With a pebble tray or humidifier nearby, it can stay happy all winter.

Aglaonema Pictum Tricolo

Known for its camouflage-style foliage, this rare Aglaonema is a favorite among collectors. It adapts well to steady indoor conditions and tolerates lower light better than many tropicals. Just keep it warm and away from drafts.

Blue Oil Fern

This unique fern shines with a blue-green shimmer under the right lighting. It loves humidity and lower light settings, making it perfect for terrariums or cozy corners away from direct sun. Its exotic look makes it a standout among more common ferns.

Butterwort (Carnivorous)

This compact carnivorous plant adds a quirky touch to your collection. It does best with consistent moisture and bright, indirect light. While it’s a bit more specific in its needs, it rewards the effort by helping control fungus gnats and offering unusual charm.

ZZ Plant or Snake Plant

These tried-and-true favorites balance out a collection filled with fussier plants. Both thrive on neglect, tolerate dry air, and do well in low light. They’re reliable, sculptural, and perfect for those times when you want something easy but still beautiful.

Easy-Care Houseplants Perfect for Winter

Not every plant parent has time for high-maintenance care routines, especially when winter throws curveballs like dry heat, shorter days, and chilly windowsills. Luckily, there are plenty of indoor plants that are naturally low-maintenance and perfectly suited to winter conditions in Chicagoland homes.

These easy-care houseplants are ideal for beginners or anyone who wants greenery without the stress.

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is a classic for a reason. It thrives in low to medium light and doesn’t mind if you forget to water it now and then. With trailing vines and leaf varieties like golden, marble queen, and neon, it’s a fast favorite for shelves and hanging baskets.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Known for its graceful white blooms and glossy leaves, the peace lily is both elegant and forgiving. It lets you know when it’s thirsty by gently drooping and bouncing back quickly after watering. It also helps filter indoor air, which is a bonus during the closed-window season.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

This adaptable plant tolerates a wide range of light and is easy to propagate thanks to its baby “spiderettes.” It’s great for hanging planters, countertops, or even office spaces. It also adds a retro vibe that fits just about any decor style.

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

As its name suggests, the cast iron plant is practically indestructible. It doesn’t mind low light, dry air, or missed waterings. It’s a slow grower, but that makes it even more reliable during the quiet winter months.

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

This colorful plant is known for its variegated foliage, which ranges from silvery greens to pinks and reds. It thrives in low light and only needs occasional watering. It’s a beautiful, no-fuss way to add warmth and life to any room during winter.

Low-Light Houseplants for Short Winter Days

When sunlight is scarce, and windows are shaded more often than not, some plants can still hold their own. These varieties are well-suited for dim corners, north-facing rooms, or spaces that don’t get much natural light during winter.

Philodendron Brasil

This vibrant, trailing plant features heart-shaped leaves with lime green and yellow striping. It handles low to medium light with ease and is quick to recover from missed waterings. Its lush growth makes it a favorite for bookshelves and hanging planters.

Dracaena Marginata

Also called the dragon tree, this plant adds height and texture with narrow, arching leaves. It adapts well to lower light conditions and needs minimal care, making it a reliable pick for less sunny spots.

Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

A timeless indoor palm with delicate fronds that soften any room. It’s slow-growing, compact, and naturally suited for shadier locations. It’s also non-toxic, which makes it a smart choice for homes with pets.

Aglaonema ‘Silver Bay’

With silvery-green foliage and a tolerance for low light, this variety of Chinese evergreen brightens up darker spaces without demanding much attention. It’s one of the easiest indoor plants to maintain year-round.

ZZ Plant

Glossy, dark green leaves and a strong, upright shape make the ZZ plant a go-to for low-light interiors. It stores moisture in its roots and requires very little upkeep, even in the dullest months.

Winter Care Tips to Keep Indoor Plants Healthy

Cold weather and indoor heating can throw your usual plant care routine off balance. During winter, most houseplants grow more slowly, which means their needs shift too. A few small changes to your habits can make a big difference in keeping your plants happy through the season.

Water less often

With slower growth and lower light levels, your plants won’t need as much water. Let the top inch or two of soil dry out before watering, and always check soil moisture first to avoid overwatering.

Watch for drafts

Cold air from windows or doors can shock your plants, especially tropical varieties. Move pots a few inches away from chilly glass or seal drafts to protect sensitive foliage.

Clean the leaves

Dust can build up faster in winter and block already-limited light. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to help your plants photosynthesize more efficiently.

Pause the fertilizer

Most houseplants rest in winter and don’t need feeding until spring. Skip the fertilizer until you see signs of new growth to avoid stressing the roots.

Rotate regularly

With light coming in at lower angles, rotating your plants helps them grow evenly. Turn pots every couple of weeks to keep them balanced and full.

These seasonal adjustments are simple but important for helping your indoor plants stay strong and resilient during the colder months.

Managing Humidity and Furnace Heat in Chicagoland

One of the biggest challenges for indoor plants during winter is the dry air caused by home heating systems. As the furnace runs, humidity levels often drop below 30 percent, which can leave your plants stressed, especially if they’re used to tropical conditions.

Here’s how to help your plants stay comfortable when the heat is on:

Use a humidifier

Placing a small humidifier near your plants is one of the most effective ways to boost moisture in the air. It’s especially helpful for humidity-loving plants like Calatheas, ferns, or Alocasias.

Try a pebble tray

Fill a shallow tray with pebbles and water, and place your plant pot on top (without letting the roots sit in the water). As the water evaporates, it gently increases humidity around the plant.

Group plants together

Plants release moisture through their leaves, so grouping them creates a microclimate with slightly higher humidity. This also makes it easier to mist or humidify a shared area.

Keep away from direct heat

Avoid placing plants directly next to radiators, heating vents, or space heaters. Sudden temperature spikes and hot, dry air can cause leaf tips to brown or curl.

Mist selectively

Light misting can help some plants, but it’s not a cure-all. Only mist in the morning to allow leaves to dry out and avoid encouraging mold or mildew.

Balancing humidity and warmth during winter doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple adjustments can go a long way in supporting your indoor garden until spring.

Shop Must-Have Winter Houseplants at Platt Hill

Indoor plants bring warmth and life to your home during the coldest months of the year. At Platt Hill Nursery, you’ll find a curated selection of houseplants that are well-suited for winter. We carry easy-care staples, unique finds, and everything in between.

Visit our Bloomingdale or Carpentersville locations to explore what’s available and get expert help choosing plants that match your lighting, humidity, and care preferences. Our team is here to answer questions and guide you toward the best options for your space.

Prefer to shop from home? Check out our indoor plant collections online for seasonal updates and current availability.

The post The Top Must-Have Houseplants for Winter: Collector Favorites & Easy-Care Picks appeared first on Platt Hill Nursery.

How to Boost Humidity for Indoor Plants During Chicago Winters

Platt Hill Nursery — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 14:29:00 +0000

If you haven’t noticed by now, winters are hard in Chicagoland, the air inside most homes feels noticeably different. Skin tightens, static electricity shows up everywhere, and houseplants (especially the tropical ones) start looking a little tired. Leaves lose their sheen. Tips brown. Growth slows, even when watering hasn’t changed. None of this is accidental.

Chicago winters create some of the driest indoor air conditions of the year. Cold outdoor air holds very little moisture, and once it’s heated indoors, relative humidity often drops below 30%. For people, that’s uncomfortable. For houseplants, it’s stressful. Low humidity forces plants to lose moisture through their leaves faster than their roots can replace it, weakening them and opening the door to pests and disease.

In short, boosting indoor humidity is one of the most important (and most overlooked) steps in keeping houseplants healthy during Chicago winters.

Why Indoor Humidity Drops During Chicago Winters

Cold outdoor air combined with indoor heating drastically reduces humidity levels inside homes. This humidity drop creates dry conditions that stress both people and houseplants.

Chicago’s Cold Climate and Dry Winter Air

Cold air simply can’t hold as much moisture as warm air. When Chicago temperatures dip below freezing (as they often do for weeks at a time), the outside air contains very little water vapor. Once that air is pulled indoors and heated, its relative humidity drops even further.

In many Chicagoland homes, indoor humidity during winter hovers between 20–30%, well below the 40–60% range most houseplants prefer. This is a common complaint in homes in Zone 5, and one that simply needs to be adjusted for seasonally.

How Furnaces, Radiators, and Space Heaters Dry Out the Air

Forced-air heating systems are especially drying. As warm air circulates through vents, it continuously replaces moist indoor air with drier air pulled from outside. Radiant heat systems tend to be slightly less aggressive, but they still raise temperatures without adding moisture.

Portable space heaters can make the problem worse by overheating small areas while further reducing humidity.

Why Winter Windows Make Humidity Loss Worse

Even well-insulated windows allow some heat transfer. Drafts, temperature swings, and condensation around window frames all contribute to moisture loss. South-facing windows can intensify the issue, since plants get warmth and light during the day, then experience sharp temperature drops at night, stressing both leaves and roots.

How Low Humidity Affects Indoor Plants

Dry air causes moisture loss through leaves faster than roots can replace it. This imbalance leads to dehydration, stress, and visible leaf damage over time.

Increased Transpiration and Plant Stress

Plants lose water through tiny pores in their leaves in a process called transpiration. In dry air, this process speeds up. During winter, roots absorb water more slowly due to cooler soil temperatures and reduced growth, creating an imbalance.

This stress often builds gradually, which is why winter plant problems can feel sudden even though conditions have been off for weeks.

Leaf Damage and Slowed Growth

The most common symptoms show up at the leaf edges and tips. Browning, crisping, curling, and drooping are all signs the plant can’t keep up with moisture loss. Growth slows or stops entirely as the plant shifts into survival mode.

Increased Pest Problems in Dry Conditions

Spider mites thrive in dry environments. Stressed plants are easier targets, and low humidity gives pests ideal breeding conditions. Many winter infestations start not because plants were “dirty,” but because the air was too dry.

Signs Your Houseplants Need More Humidity

Visible leaf damage and slowed growth are the earliest indicators. These early warning signs help you catch humidity issues before they become severe.

Common Visual Warning Signs

Brown or crispy leaf tips
Yellowing leaves without soggy soil
Wilting even when watering is consistent

These symptoms often appear first on newer growth or thinner leaves.

Plants That Show Humidity Stress First

Some plants are simply less forgiving in winter air:

Calatheas
Ferns
Orchids
Fiddle Leaf Figs

They tend to signal problems early, acting like humidity “canaries.”

How to Rule Out Overwatering or Underwatering

Check the soil first. If moisture levels are appropriate but leaves still look stressed, air humidity (not watering) is often the issue. Soil moisture and air moisture are separate systems, and one can be right while the other is not.

Best Ways to Increase Humidity for Indoor Plants

Combining multiple low-effort methods works better than relying on one solution.

Use a Room Humidifier (Most Effective)

Humidifiers are the most reliable way to raise humidity consistently. Aim for a 40–60% range for most houseplants. This mimics the conditions many tropical plants experience naturally.

Place Plants Near Each Other

Plants release moisture into the air as they transpire. Grouping them creates small, shared microclimates that hold humidity longer than isolated pots.

Create Pebble Trays Correctly

Fill a shallow tray with pebbles, add water just below the top of the stones, and place the pot above the water line. The evaporating moisture increases local humidity without soaking roots. Avoid letting pots sit directly in water.

Use Bathroom and Kitchen Humidity Strategically

These rooms naturally fluctuate in humidity. Plants that tolerate lower light, like ferns or pothos, often do well here, provided there’s adequate airflow and light.

Using Humidifiers Safely and Effectively

Proper placement and maintenance prevent mold, rot, and mineral buildup.

Best Types of Humidifiers for Plant Care

Cool mist: Safe, energy-efficient, ideal for plants
Warm mist: Adds heat but uses more energy
Ultrasonic: Quiet but may produce mineral dust
Evaporative: Self-regulating and low-maintenance

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Where to Place Humidifiers Around Plants

Keep humidifiers close enough to raise ambient humidity, but not so close that leaves stay wet. Direct misting can encourage disease.

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Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Clean weekly to prevent bacteria and mineral buildup. Use distilled water if white dust becomes an issue.

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How to Monitor Humidity Levels

A simple hygrometer removes the guesswork. Keep a humidity range, since over-humidifying can cause condensation, mold, and root issues.

Grouping Plants and Natural Humidity Boosting Methods

Plants naturally raise humidity when grouped together in shared spaces.

How Plant Grouping Works

As plants transpire, moisture accumulates in the surrounding air. Grouping increases this effect while also buffering temperature swings.

Creating Plant Zones in Your Home

Living room clusters near bright windows
Window groupings with similar light needs
Bedroom zones for humidity-loving, low-light plants

Decorative Containers That Help Retain Moisture

Cache pots and glazed containers slow evaporation compared to porous terracotta, helping soil stay evenly moist longer.

Choosing Houseplants That Tolerate Dry Winter Air

Some plants adapt better to low humidity and winter conditions.

Best Low-Humidity Indoor Plants

Snake Plant
ZZ Plant
Pothos
Spider Plant
Dracaena

Plants That Need Extra Humidity in Winter

Calathea
Ferns
Alocasia
Maranta

Mixing Easy-Care and High-Humidity Plants

Pair resilient plants with humidity-sensitive ones to stabilize microclimates and reduce winter maintenance stress.

Winter Houseplant Care Tips Beyond Humidity

Adjusting light, watering, and feeding help plants survive winter dormancy.

Reduce Watering Without Letting Plants Dry Out

Growth slows in winter, so water less frequently, but still deeply. Overwatering is more common than underwatering during cold months.

Adjust Light Exposure During Short Days

Move plants closer to windows or supplement with grow lights when natural light drops below functional levels.

Pause or Reduce Fertilizing

Most plants don’t need fertilizer in winter. Resume feeding in early spring as daylight increases.

Common Winter Humidity Mistakes to Avoid

Overcompensating can cause rot, mold, and pest issues.

Over-Humidifying Small Spaces

Excess humidity leads to window condensation and mold growth. Balance humidity with airflow.

Misting as a Primary Solution

Misting offers only temporary relief and can encourage leaf disease if overused.

Ignoring Air Circulation

Stagnant air combined with high humidity creates ideal conditions for fungal problems. Gentle airflow matters.

When to Seek Help from Local Plant Experts

Local advice matters because Chicago winters are uniquely harsh.

Why Local Nurseries Understand Regional Challenges

Chicagoland’s temperature swings, heating styles, and daylight patterns aren’t universal. And this is where local experience makes a difference. At Platt Hill Nursery, we offer personalized houseplant care guidance, winter-appropriate plant selections, humidifiers, and accessories tailored to local homes.

Humidity is often the missing link in winter houseplant care. Without it, even well-watered, well-lit plants struggle to maintain healthy leaves and steady growth. Chicago winters make dry indoor air unavoidable, but plant stress isn’t.

Taking time to assess humidity levels, adjust plant placement, and use the right tools can change how plants experience the season. The goal is to create conditions that support plants until spring returns.

For those navigating winter plant care in Chicagoland homes, Platt Hill Nursery is always a place to compare notes, ask questions, and explore practical solutions. A visit to either of our locations in Carpentersville or Bloomingdale can offer clarity and a few healthy reminders that winter doesn’t have to mean decline.

The post How to Boost Humidity for Indoor Plants During Chicago Winters appeared first on Platt Hill Nursery.

Fiddle Leaf Fig, 10″ Pot

Graham Hill — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 21:58:07 +0000

Fiddle Leaf Fig – The Iconic Statement Plant

The Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) is a showstopper in the world of indoor plants, renowned for its large, violin-shaped leaves and dramatic presence. Its bold, upright growth and glossy green foliage make it a favorite for elevating any interior design. Whether you’re creating a lush, modern aesthetic or adding a natural touch to a classic space, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is the ultimate statement piece.

Key Features:

Striking Foliage: Features broad, glossy leaves with a unique fiddle shape that adds texture and visual interest to any room.
Impressive Height: Can grow tall and majestic, making it perfect for filling empty corners or adding vertical greenery to your decor.
Timeless Elegance: Its architectural beauty complements a variety of styles, from modern minimalism to mid-century chic.
Air-Purifying Benefits: Naturally filters toxins from the air, creating a healthier and more inviting indoor environment.

Care Instructions:

Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct morning light but avoid prolonged exposure to harsh afternoon sun.
Watering: Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so less is more.
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Mist the leaves or use a humidifier to mimic its natural tropical environment.
Temperature: Best kept in temperatures between 60-85°F. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Soil: Requires well-draining potting soil, such as a mix designed for indoor plants.

Why Choose Fiddle Leaf Fig?

The Fiddle Leaf Fig is more than just a plant—it’s a design statement. Its iconic silhouette adds life and personality to any space, whether it’s a living room, office, or bedroom. Though it may require a bit of extra care, the reward is a stunning centerpiece that brings elegance and warmth to your home.

Pro Tip:

Rotate your Fiddle Leaf Fig every few weeks to ensure even growth and dust the leaves regularly to keep them looking their best.

Add the Fiddle Leaf Fig to your home or workspace and enjoy the unmatched beauty of this indoor plant superstar. Its timeless charm and commanding presence make it a must-have for plant lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

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Ficus Audrey, 6″ Pot

Graham Hill — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 21:57:02 +0000

Ficus Audrey – The Modern Elegance of Greenery

The Ficus Audrey, a striking and refined houseplant, perfectly blends beauty and sophistication. Known scientifically as Ficus benghalensis, this stunning plant features velvety, emerald-green leaves with delicate white veining, supported by a sleek, sturdy trunk. A cousin to the iconic fiddle-leaf fig, the Ficus Audrey offers a more minimalist aesthetic with easier care, making it an ideal centerpiece for contemporary or classic interiors.

Key Features:

Graceful Foliage: Boasts soft, matte-green leaves with subtle, contrasting veins that create a natural, calming presence.
Low Maintenance: Less demanding than other ficus varieties, making it suitable for plant lovers of all levels.
Air-Purifying Benefits: Helps cleanse the air of toxins, promoting a fresher and healthier indoor environment.
Stylish Versatility: Complements any decor style, from modern minimalism to lush bohemian vibes, and thrives as a standalone feature or part of a larger plant collection.

Care Instructions:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some morning direct light. Avoid prolonged exposure to harsh afternoon sun.
Watering: Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry before watering. Be mindful not to overwater, as it prefers slightly dry conditions.
Humidity: Appreciates moderate humidity but adapts well to typical indoor conditions. Mist occasionally for added humidity in drier environments.
Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Soil: Grows best in well-draining soil with a mix of peat and perlite or standard indoor potting soil.

Why Choose Ficus Audrey?

The Ficus Audrey is not just a plant—it’s a statement piece. Its clean lines and lush, textured leaves make it a perfect addition to living rooms, offices, or any space in need of an elegant touch of green. Easier to care for than the fiddle-leaf fig but just as stylish, it’s a plant that enhances your space while requiring minimal effort.

Transform your home or workspace with the Ficus Audrey—a timeless houseplant that exudes grace and simplicity while bringing the tranquility of nature indoors.

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Ficus February: Our Five Favorite Figs

Platt Hill Nursery — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 16:46:20 +0000

The Fiddle Leaf Fig has become a celebrated houseplant of recent years, but it’s only one of many attractive ficus plants that you can grow indoors. In the tropics, these trees grow into broad, luxurious canopies with vining branches and gnarly trunks. In your home, ficuses are small trees with elegant bark and lush leaves. While some types require fine-tuning to get the conditions just right, they are perfectly suited to beginner and seasoned growers. Here are five ficuses you’ll fall in love with!

They have a reputation for being finicky, but once you pinpoint the proper sunlight, humidity, and water levels, they’re relatively low-maintenance.

Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig)

Featuring large, violin-shaped leaves with prominent veins, the Fiddle Leaf Fig has become one of the most popular houseplants of the past few years. Originating in the tropics of Africa, they enjoy wet, humid, and warm conditions. However, if you can’t duplicate a tropical jungle in your living room, they’ll still grow for a long time, as long as you’re mindful of their water and sunlight needs.

Water: The right amount of water is important for this plant. Water once the top inch of soil feels dry. Leaves with brown tips are a sign of overwatering, while fully yellow or brown, crispy leaves indicate under watering.

Sunlight: Keep in bright, indirect light.

Additional Information:
Fiddle Leaf Fig Care 101

Ficus alii (Banana Leaf Fig)

Commonly called the Banana Leaf Fig, this ficus features long, slender leaves like a banana tree. The bushy look gives it a more casual feel than the Fiddle Leaf, and coincidentally, it’s also less finicky than other types of ficus plants. But, originating in Southeast Asia, it still enjoys tropical conditions like the other members of the fig family.

Water: Let the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out in between waterings.

Sunlight: Keep in bright, indirect light.

Ficus elastica (Rubber Plant)

This tree is famous for its white sap that contains latex, a valuable substance in many industrial applications. As a houseplant, its rich burgundy leaves are the main appeal. In its native jungles of Southeast Asia, it may reach heights of 200 feet, but like other types of ficus plants, this variety only grows 6-10 feet tall indoors, a perfect height for any floor space.

Water: Allow the soil to dry halfway down the pot in between waterings. Yellow, dropping leaves is a sign of overwatering.

Sunlight: These trees need bright, indirect light but are more tolerant of lower light than other types of ficus plants. The leaves may turn green if they are not receiving enough rays.

Ficus benghalensis (Ficus Audrey)

The Ficus Audrey is the highly revered and prized national tree of India. As a houseplant, it rivals the elegance of the Fiddle Leaf Fig. But instead of large violin-shaped leaves, it features smaller emerald leaves with prominent white veins. This tree can be trained to grow in a graceful pole-like shape with leaves all along the trunk. It can also grow in a typical tree form with multiple branches and a bushy crown on top.

Water: Let the top 2-3 inches of soil dry out before watering.

Sunlight: High levels of bright, indirect light or direct sunlight.

Ficus daniella (Ficus Danielle)

The braided trunk is the hallmark of the Ficus daniella. Its bright green crown has all of the elegance of the other figs, including the ability to filter and purify air. In the jungle, it grows into a majestic tree of 90 feet or higher. Inside your home, it gives you all of this luxuriant personality, but at a more manageable size of 6-10 feet.

Water: Water thoroughly once the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.

Sunlight: Bright, indirect light.

Extra Care Tips for Your Ficus Plants

Ficus plants often benefit from extra plant care, especially in the first months after you move them into your home. Here are ways to treat them well:

Rotate the plants every 1-2 weeks so that each side of the plant gets equal access to sunlight. This will prevent them from growing towards the window.
Dust the leaves every 1-2 weeks to keep them looking their best and to help the leaves absorb sunlight.
As ficus plants are sensitive, changes in temperature or location may cause them to become stressed and lose leaves. Keep them away from drafts and heat sources, and once you find the ideal spot, avoid moving them.
Pick off any dead leaves throughout the year as they can harbor pests.

Ficus plants make beautiful additions to your home. They have a reputation for being finicky, but once you pinpoint the proper sunlight, humidity, and water levels, they’re relatively low-maintenance. These indoor trees will not produce any figs, but all of them stand out by their elegant trunks and lush leaves alone.

To find your favorite fig, visit our garden centers in Carpentersville and Bloomingdale!

Platt Hill Nursery is Chicago’s premier garden center and nursery.

Additional Information:
Terracotta vs. Ceramic Pots: Which is Better for Your Houseplants?
Fiddle Leaf Fig Care 101

The post Ficus February: Our Five Favorite Figs appeared first on Platt Hill Nursery.

These Will Be the Hottest Houseplants of 2021

Platt Hill Nursery — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 15:00:18 +0000

Nothing can improve the atmosphere of our homes like a houseplant. The greenery can transform a room into a tropical paradise, and those gorgeous green leaves boost the air quality by producing oxygen and filtering out harsh chemicals. Many studies show that plants improve our concentration, mood, sleep, and creativity. Houseplants have always been popular—but here are the ones trending for 2021 and our tips on how to care for them!

Houseplants are like pets, except they often take care of us just as much as we take care of them.

Alocasia

The striking leaves of these plants can easily become the centerpiece of your living decor. Originating in subtropical Asia and eastern Australia, there are many varieties of Alocasia, from exotic types with striking color patterns and variation, to classically refined and elegant. Alocasia comes in a wide variety of colors from almost black to chartreuse to pale green. Their favorite soil is a 1:1:1 ratio of potting mix, peat, and perlite or coarse potting sand. Keep it moist by watering once the top 1-2 inches are dry and place these plants in indirect, bright light. Their mesmerizing leaves can get scorched in direct sun.

Bromeliad

The most common variety of bromeliads have colorful bracts around central flower stems. You’ll find them in tropical colors of fuschia, orange, and pineapple yellow. Many types of bromeliads grow on tree branches in the tropics. That means they like well-draining soil, such as a 2:1:1 mix of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark, or something similar. The leaves of bromeliads form cups that need to be watered from above. These cups hold water and release it slowly to the roots. Keep them full by watering once a week, and replace the water if it gets stagnant. Varieties with soft leaves prefer low light, while those with stiff leaves need bright, indirect rays.

Calathea

Calatheas are trending this year for their stunning aesthetics. The leaves are so beautiful that you’d think an artist could have painted them. The Calathea ornata features pink and white pinstripes on large green leaves. The Calathea makoyana has green-striped leaves with purple undersides. Most of the varieties like indirect, bright light. As for soil, they need a peaty potting mix that retains moisture. Water about once or twice a week, depending on your conditions, to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Ficus

The Fiddle Leaf Fig tree is one of the trending houseplants in this family. It has a handsome trunk with violin-shaped leaves. The Weeping Fig is one of its close cousins, which is just as attractive, but with bushier, smaller leaves. They prefer bright-filtered light near a sunny window and like a thorough watering when the top inch of soil is dry. But don’t let them sit in a wet saucer. If the edges of leaves turn brown, it’s asking for more H2O. If you see dark brown spots, it’s telling you to put your watering can away. A ficus can be finicky—and may benefit from advanced care tips—but if you promptly correct any watering mistakes, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful indoor tree.

Hoya

While ficus are tall and stately, hoyas like to let it all hang down. Their trailing leaves are ideal for any shelf or hanging pot. Some have beautiful tendrils like the Rope Plant, while others, like the Carnosa, have classic glossy lance-shaped leaves. Most of them produce sweetly perfumed red or white flowers. They like rich, well-draining potting soil, such as a potting mix with some perlite or orchid bark, and about 6 hours of indirect sunlight per day. Give them a drink once the top layer of soil dries out.

Maranta

Maranta is another trending plant from the tropics with artistic leaves. You may find yourself lost in contemplation at the mesmerizing pink stripes and multiple shades of green on each leaf. They are also called Prayer Plants because they fold their leaves together at night, almost like two hands in prayer. They enjoy a well-draining potting mix, moist soil, and bright, indirect light. Water about every 1-2 weeks, letting the soil dry out halfway between waterings.

Monstera

While marantas amaze you with color, it’s the shape of monstera leaves that wins your heart. One variety has been dubbed the Swiss Cheese Plant because of the attractive holes in their large leaves. The leaves of all varieties have some kind of perforation. This allows them to reach out for more sunlight while using less energy to form a solid leaf. From an aesthetic angle, it gives them a breezy, tropical vibe. They like nutrient-rich potting soil, medium to bright indirect light, and they need water once the top 2-4 inches of soil are dry, or about once per week, depending on your conditions.

Philodendron

Philodendrons encompass a large family of easy-to-care-for houseplants. The heart-shaped philodendron is a popular trailing plant that made it onto NASA’s list of the best air-purifying houseplants. It has solid green, spade-shaped leaves, while other varieties have variegated green and yellow leaves. They like indirect, bright light and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering is often a more significant risk than underwatering these plants. If you let them dry out too much, the leaves become droopy but will quickly recover with a good drink. Rhaphidophora tetrasperma is another popular houseplant with a trailing habit like a philodendron but perforated foliage like a monstera.

Schefflera

The Umbrella Tree is one of the most famous schefflera houseplants. They are a beautiful plant for any floor location with their slender stems and umbrella-like whorls of leaves. You’ll also find that its close relative, the Dwarf Umbrella Tree, is a charming substitute! They are easy to care for and are usually not vulnerable to houseplant pests. Give them bright, indirect light and water once the soil in the pot has mostly dried out. Yellow leaves that are falling off is a sign of overwatering. Since they are vulnerable to root rot, make sure to dump excess water from the saucer after watering and use a peat-moss-based potting mix when repotting. When you feel it needs to be pruned, cut off leggy limbs and prune it to the size that you want.

Houseplants are like pets, except they often take care of us just as much as we take care of them. They silently filter toxins from the air and reduce our stress levels even when we don’t realize it. Houseplants change the very life of our homes, enhancing the vitality of everyone around them. This year, you have no shortage of beautiful options, from stately indoor trees to cheerful tropicals and plants with leaves as attractive as flowers. For all of your houseplant needs, visit our garden centers in Bloomingdale and Carpentersville, and check out our Winter Garden Guide for more inspiration this season or stop by our Houseplant Festival!

Platt Hill Nursery is Chicago’s premier garden center and nursery.

Additional Articles of Interest:
3 Great Houseplants To De-Stress Your Home And Purify The Air
Houseplants that You Can Move Outdoors in the Summer
Perfectly Pet-Safe Houseplants

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Houseplant Festival

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houseplant festival

Sat., Jan. 31 & Sun., Feb. 1, 2026

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foliage for fortune

Money Tree

Pachira aquatica

Traditionally, this unique bonsai tree is associated with wealth and prosperity. According to feng shui principles, the five-lobed leaves are symbols of good fortune.