If you’re looking to bring the outdoors in, houseplants are a great way to spruce up any room of your home. Houseplants also make great client gifts! But determining what will work best can be a difficult decision. From cold, harsh winters to warm, humid summers, Chicago’s climate can leave you wondering, “What can thrive year-round?” Well, we have options that will help you brighten up any space in your home.
Cactus
Cacti are drought-prone plants that can go weeks without watering, making them an easy to care for indoor plant that will survive dry Chicago winters.
Most cacti need bright light, should only be watered when their soil is completely dry and thrive in indoor temperatures between 55° to 90°.
Succulents
If you’re a new plant parent, succulents are a great place to start. They’re sturdy and can withstand a variety of different temperatures. Succulents come in a variety of types, but some we suggest specifically for Chicago are aloe vera, agave or jade plants.
Succulents love bright light and need to be watered more during the spring and summer than they do in the winter and fall. An easy test is to put your finger into the soil; if the top of the soil is dry, then it needs to be watered.
Ferns
Ferns are some of the oldest plants around, dating back to almost 420 million years ago, according to Britannica. These plants prosper indoors with the correct amount of humidity and light.
Humidity is a do or die for ferns, so they will thrive during Chicago summers. During the winter and other times of the year, consider using a humidifier and misting them to keep them alive, or house them in your bathroom. Make sure their soil is consistently damp, because they don’t like to be dry, and keep them away from vents. Ferns also love indirect light.
Snake Plants
Searching for a plant that’s tough as nails? Look no farther than the snake plant. These plants can withstand anything, from extreme heat to blizzard conditions, and are nearly impossible to kill.
Snake plants prefer indirect light, but they will also grow in shady areas with low light. Only water your snake plant when the soil is dry; it can survive with monthly waterings during the winter.
ZZ Plants
Many people are drawn to the ZZ plant’s wide, emerald green leaves and ability to remove harmful compounds from the air, making them an extremely popular option. But keep in mind: if you have young kids or pets, these plants are poisonous. Clean your hands after handling them.
ZZ plants prefer a dryer climate. They should be watered every few weeks, allowing for the soil to dry in between waterings. ZZs are happy in both indirect light or low light.
Peperomia
Although peperomias originated in humid climates, they will grow in both humid or less humid situations. They may be mistaken for succulents, but they are a type of plant all their own.
Peperomias need a good amount of water. When the soil is halfway dry, water your peperomia thoroughly until water comes out of the drain hole at the bottom of your pot. Peperomias can handle bright or low light and should not be kept at indoor temperatures below 50°.
English Ivy
English ivy is known for trailing vines that can also climb up the exterior of buildings or fences. It needs to avoid cold winds and hot sunlight, making it great for the safety inside a Chicago home.
English ivy can grow in shade and indirect light, and it will flourish in slightly dry soil. When it’s dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
Looking to fill some outdoor space?
Whether you have a full yard, small patio or a quaint balcony, we have some suggestions for you!
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are notorious for being able to handle cold weather. They start to bloom in June all the way until winter, and they bloom in both shady and sunny conditions. The Chicago Botanic Gardens recommends Mountain Hydrangeas, Climbing Hydrangeas, Smooth Hydrangeas, Bigleaf Hydrangeas, Oakleaf Hydrangeas or Panicle Hydrangeas, as these are the best varieties to handle the change in weather.
Herbs
Calling all foodies and cooks! Herbs are great to grow in Chicago, because they can start growing indoors during the winter and be transferred outside when warmer weather comes around. Sage, mint, oregano and thyme are perennial herbs, while basil and cilantro are warm-weather herbs, which can be grown in a sunny spot or under an LED light during the winter in anticipation of summer.
Marigolds
Marigolds can also withstand Chicago’s cold weather, although they thrive best in warm weather. To properly prepare marigolds for winter, make sure they are placed somewhere that gets six hours of sunlight. Then, cover the soil with mulch and water it thoroughly twice a week. This should ensure they stick around yearlong!