Most succulents need six to eight hours of direct southern exposure. Unfortunately, most homes and apartments do not have it. “People stick them anywhere: low light bookshelves, 10 feet from the nearest window, entry hallways with no windows, and the succulents eventually get etiolated (stretch looking for the sun) and lose their leaves and die,” says Failla. Even worse, eager plant parents forget that succulents are very sensitive to overwatering. “One drink too much, and they can turn to mush,” says Failla, “So, unless you have super sunny windowsills and don’t want to water your plants frequently, I’d steer clear.” While we are on the topic of succulent plants, Kobayashi says, “I cringe whenever I see big-box retailers selling gem-colored cacti and succulents!” These plants do not produce vibrant colors naturally. Although it’s artificial and harmless to the plant, as it grows out, it will not be so cute. “The plant will definitely go through an awkward phase as it grows out the color—it’s basically like living with a bad dye job,” warns Kobayashi. “They grow near water sources and are used to high humidity, and very few maidenhair ferns can make the transition to low humidity homes,” says Failla. “Unless you are going to surround your maidenhair fern with humidifiers or a cloche, I’d avoid this tempting plant.” Kobayashi concurs, “Low humidity and dry air will turn this fern crispy very quickly.” “Although I love the way they look on patios and outside, I’ve found transitioning Boston Ferns from outdoors to indoors too much work for my liking,” says Kobayashi. Like maidenhairs, if you do not provide them with adequate humidity, they will dry out and litter your home with brown leaves. “You can try placing them in kitchens and bathrooms that naturally have more humidity,” suggests Kobayashi, “But that has never worked in my favor.” “They need lots of sunlight and don’t like to be moved around or exposed to drafts,” says Failla, “If you don’t care for it correctly, those big, violin-shaped leaves dropping to the floor can be devastating and totally sour your overall plant care experience.” Failla doesn’t recommend them for beginners, but seasoned houseplant parents who have the time and patience to cater to the drama-prone houseplant should go for it. “Carnivorous plants need particular care that is not similar to houseplant care,” warns Failla, “And if you don’t have the growing media, distilled water, and humidity these plants need to thrive, this plant will be a goner in your home.” And, contrary to popular belief, you can’t feed them flies or raw meat. However, seasoned growers can grow them IF they fully understand the plant’s needs. “I know several people who have the proper setups for their carnivorous plants and absolutely adore the practice of caring for them,” says Failla. “Majesty palms are so alluring because you can get large ones relatively cheap,” says Kobayashi, “Unfortunately, they need to be watered a lot, and they can often succumb to root rot if they aren’t in a pot with proper drainage.” Like other palms, they need plenty of humidity to thrive. Although they are inexpensive, unless you have a conservatory or live in a warm, humid environment, it’s best to leave this one at the store. “Have you ever unbraided one of these to try to save them from a very unnatural and unappealing look?” asks Kobayashi. Unfortunately, the kinks will never iron out. “You’ll be left with crimped looking leaves, although new growth will grow naturally straight and spiky,” says Kobayashi. “The only problem is that they are usually sold in a single leaf form,” says Kobayashi, “And if the leaf wasn’t propagated with a stem and node, it’s not going to grow more leaves, making it a single, lonely heart forever.” Kobayashi agrees that the risks that go along with shipping and growing them isn’t worth the cost. “In my opinion, purchasing expensive variegated plants from private sellers online (especially if they are located overseas) can be risky,” explains Kobayashi, “Not only because the plant has to travel far to get to you but because they do not care about customer satisfaction, unlike traditional and trusted brick and mortar nurseries.” Failla also notes that these super rare exotic plants we all drool over on Instagram are just not well suited for your average home. “Many intense collectors run humidifiers all day to keep humidity levels up to a percentage which a tropical plant would thrive in,” Failla explains, “Most people don’t take those precautions, and if that expensive plant dies, it can be extremely disheartening.”
