I'm someone who absolutely adores plants -- unfortunately i'm not so great at taking care of them. I've noticed a lot of college students are interesting in growing plants in their dorms and apartments, but have a hard time keeping them alive. These indoor plants are low-maintenance, easy to keep alive, and great to have while in college!
1. Aloe
Aloe does best in dry climates, like a succulent or cactus. Make sure the pot has lots of drainage holes, and plant it in cactus soil. They need lots of sunlight so make sure they're in a window that gets a lot of light the majority of the day. The main reason most aloe vera plants die is because owners over water -- wait until the soil is dry before watering again.
2. Tanzanian Zipper Plant
A tanzanian zipper plant can never be in a temperature lower than 50° F, so it's perfect for inside a dorm or house! These should only be watered when dry, and they also need a water break in the winter (if your house gets chilly).
3. Jade
A Jade houseplant is super easy to keep indoors, and it is considered to be a symbol of good luck. These plants needs lots of light and to be fertilized every so often. In order to thrive successfully, Jade's need to be watered just enough, but not too much (or it will cause root rot). Don't let the soil dry completely, water when just the top is dry to the touch. If leaves are drying out or falling off, it's probably because of lack of water.
4. Succulents
Succulents always need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. If you don't have a window in your house that gets that much light, a small grow light in your window can easily solve the issue. Succulents can also get sunburned if they get too much light, which happens mostly if the window is facing the south. So, make sure you are always rotating your plant to even out the sunlight.
5. Kalanchoe
A flowering kalanchoe houseplant is a cousin to the jade plant, and is also super easy to take care of! These prefer south face windows, and bright, indirect light. These also need to be dried in between watering, and if it's in a drainage tray, immediately empty it before another watering.
6. "Campfire" Crassula
These plants are the best for the laziest, most forgetful, plant owner. Campfire crassulas can grow in sunlight or shade and only need light watering after soil has completely dried (so every 1 - 1 1/2 weeks). These can even survive through frost and droughts, and they thrive in hot weather!
