Grow houseplants that actually last

Most houseplants want 6 to 8 hours of bright, indirect light each day. A south-facing window is brightest, an east window gives gentle morning sun, and a north window counts as low light. If plants lean toward the glass or grow small pale leaves, add a grow light 6 to 12 inches above them for 12 to 16 hours a day.

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry rather than on a fixed schedule. Soak the pot until water drains from the bottom, then empty the saucer. Most plants need water every 7 to 14 days in summer and far less in winter, and hanging baskets dry out fastest of all.

Overwatering is the usual cause, especially when the lower leaves yellow first and the soil stays wet. Check that the pot drains, let the top inch dry before watering again, and make sure the plant is not standing in water. Low light and a lack of feeding can also cause pale yellow leaves.

ZZ plants and snake plants are the most forgiving. Both handle low light, tolerate a missed watering, and rarely attract pests. Pothos and philodendron are also easy and grow fast enough to feel rewarding in the first month.

Yes. Use an indoor potting mix rather than garden soil, which compacts in a pot and holds too much water. A good mix contains peat or coconut coir plus perlite, so it drains fast and keeps air around the roots.

Move the plant away from the others first. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth, then spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, covering the undersides. Repeat weekly for three weeks to catch newly hatched eggs, and quarantine any new plant for two weeks.