The Best Indoor Plants for NYC Apartments (Even If You Have Zero Natural Light)
NYC apartments aren’t exactly known for their sprawling gardens. Between tiny square footage and limited natural light, keeping plants alive in the city can feel like a lost cause. But don’t give up your greenery dreams just yet! We’ve got the lowdown on the best indoor plants for NYC apartments. The more you know about our leafy friends, the more you can bring in fresh, stylish, and low-maintenance greenery without turning your space into a high-maintenance jungle.
Here are 5 our 5 tips for incorporating greenery into your space:
1. Low-Light Champions: Plants That Thrive Without Sun
Most NYC apartments aren’t exactly known for their sun-soaked interiors. If your windows are more decorative than functional, these low-light-loving plants will still flourish:
Snake Plant: Basically indestructible. Loves low light and only needs watering every few weeks.
ZZ Plant: Glossy, stylish, and practically thrives on neglect.
Pothos: Cascading vines that can handle just about anything.
Peace Lily: Tolerates shade and even tells you when it’s thirsty (the leaves droop—so dramatic).
Cast Iron Plant: The name says it all. Impossible to kill and thrives in dim rooms.
Pro Tip: If you’re convinced you can’t keep plants alive, start with a snake plant. It forgives all sins.
2. Stylish Plants That Double as Decor
Plants are good for the air and they’re interior design superstars. These options add style, texture, and a little “I-have-my-life-together” energy to your apartment:
Fiddle Leaf Fig: The Instagram-famous tree. It’s dramatic, elegant, and makes a statement (but needs bright, indirect light).
Cactus & Succulents: Modern, sculptural, and require basically no effort.
Rubber Plant: Sleek, deep green leaves that add a modern touch.
Parlor Palm: A vintage classic that brings effortless elegance.
Money Tree: Compact and cute, with round, coin-shaped leaves.
Pro Tip: Pair different plant sizes together (one tall, one medium, one trailing) for an effortlessly chic look.
Money Tree from Wayfair
3. Small-Space-Friendly Greenery
When every inch counts, you need plants that fit into your life, not take over your space.
Best Plants for Tiny Apartments:
Hanging Plants: String of Pearls, Ivy, or Boston Fern keep surfaces clutter-free.
Mini Succulents: Small but mighty. Perfect for desks, bookshelves, or window ledges.
Wall-Mounted Planters: Adds greenery without sacrificing floor space.
Bonsai Trees: A compact statement piece that adds a Zen vibe.
Air Plants: No soil needed! Just mist them occasionally and enjoy.
Pro Tip: Use floating shelves or macrame plant hangers to free up valuable counter space while keeping your greenery front and center.
4. Pet-Friendly Plants
Got a curious cat or a leaf-chewing pup? Some plants are not pet-friendly (looking at you, lilies and pothos). Stick with these safe options instead:
Spider Plant: Bouncy, air-purifying, and completely non-toxic.
Calathea (Prayer Plant): Gorgeous, patterned leaves and 100% pet-approved.
Areca Palm: Brings tropical vibes without endangering your furry friend.
Boston Fern: Lush, safe, and great for improving air quality.
Parlor Palm: Adds greenery without worry.
Pro Tip: Keep all plants out of reach of curious pets (even pet-friendly varieties could cause an upset stomach if eaten).
5. How to Keep Your NYC Plants Alive (Without a Green Thumb)
Okay, so you’ve picked out the perfect plants. Now, how do you keep them alive?
Watering Smart: More plants die from overwatering than neglect. Stick your finger in the soil—if it’s still damp, hold off on watering.
Rotate Your Plants: Give them a little sunlight exposure by rotating them every few weeks.
Dust the Leaves: Yes, really. Dust blocks sunlight absorption, so give those leaves a wipe-down now and then.
Use the Right Pot: Drainage holes = happy plants. If your pot doesn’t have them, add pebbles at the bottom to prevent root rot.
Fertilize (Sometimes): A little plant food in spring and summer keeps them thriving.
Pro Tip: Set reminders on your phone to water your plants. It’s foolproof (and way better than realizing your plant is a crispy husk). Or better yet, go with self-watering plants. They can (literally) be a life-saver!
The Green Apartment Glow-Up
Indoor plants instantly elevate your space, making even the smallest NYC apartments feel fresh, inviting, and full of life. Whether you’re going for low-maintenance greenery, stylish statement plants, or tiny-space solutions, there’s a perfect plant for your home.
Want expert help designing a home that’s stylish AND functional? Book a free consultation today and let’s create a space you love!