Indoor plants
Stay green as the temps fall with a pet plant for your home.
1 Glossed cause
If lack of sunlight is an issue, consider the rubber plant (Ficus elastica). This glossy variety likes to stretch its roots, so don’t overwater it, and keep it in a pot that drains. $7–$34 at Gethsemane Garden Center, 5739 N Clark St (773-878-5915).
2 Indie spirit
Not the most responsible person in town? The zz plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a safe bet because it needs very little water and naturally maintains its healthy, shiny appearance. The only way to kill this plant is to drown it, so go easy on the hydration. $22.50–$45 at A New Leaf, 1645 N Wells St (312-649-7008).
3 Snack attack
Looking to rattle things up? The snake plant is not only one of the hardest plants to kill, but it’ll survive almost anywhere in your pad. Water it only once every seven to ten days—it actually enjoys dry spells. $32 at Jayson Home & Garden, 1885 N Clybourn Ave (773-248-8180).
4 Give peace a chance
The peace lily (Spathiphyllum) is a popular indoor plant because it flowers prettily with basic care: lots of water and low light (you don’t want the plant to frown in brown). $35–$60 at K & K Flowers and Gifts, 135 S LaSalle St (312-726-3357).
5 A colorful bromance
Spruce up your place with a bromeliad (Bromeliaceae) and enjoy its long-lasting exotic appearance with little worry. Keep the plant snug in a warm apartment with loose, coarse soil. $17.50–$35 at LaSalle Flower Shop, 731 N LaSalle St (312-787-3680).
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