10 Low Budget Hacks for Your Houseplants

The stakes associated with most houseplants are rather low, which is why they’re so popular to those with limited time and budgets. Unlike a prized tree that can set you back hundreds of dollars, houseplants are simple to maintain and won’t cost a fortune. 

However, with so many dubious plant ‘hacks’ circulating around the Internet, including the use of banana water to water plants, it’s important to approach these tips with caution. Many of these popular methods often do more harm than good. A lot of beginners tend to overcomplicate things with grow lights and fertilizer when none of that is really necessary. Instead, focus on a few simple, low-budget methods that can help you save money on houseplants. 

 

1. Buy Smaller Plants         

Many houseplants are fast growers, so it’s better to buy smaller houseplants, especially if you’re tight on space. Instead of the sprawling leaves of the heart leaf philodendron, opt for a few compact succulents that can fit snugly on your windowsill. If you’re willing to invest in a more premium setup, consider indoor herb planters designed for reliable and efficient watering – a worthwhile long-term investment. 

 

2. Start Seeds in Seedling Trays   

Seedling trays apply more to garden crops you’ll be transferring outside in warm weather, but it can work as well for indoor plants, such as herbs and monsteras. Starting from seed is an inexpensive way to grow higher quality crops. These sturdy trays ensure that they’ll last a long time, and unlike the plastic ones brought at nurseries, they help reduce waste. Get them 50% off while you can. 

 

3. Look for Places with Cheap Houseplants 

Go the extra mile by scouring Facebook or other local social media sites for cheap plants that might cost much more at commercial stores. If you’re lucky, you’ll happen upon rare varieties of houseplants at estate sales and plant swaps, hidden among the refuse. On the other hand, there’s a chance you might walk away disappointed, but for those who aren’t afraid to get down to the nitty gritty, it can be worthwhile. Sometimes, big-box garden centers will offer unusual or unique houseplants at discounts, often at affordable prices. 

 

4. Get Creative with Plant Stands 

Many rolling carts, priced under $30 and intended for everyday objects, can easily double as plant stands. Stools can also be used as plant stands for one or two pots while utility carts are more suited for a hoard of houseplants. Take advantage of the varying heights to strategically place many houseplants in one place, angling them a certain way so that some full-sun plants receive more sun than others. Growing your plants close together is also beneficial as it creates a microclimate that fosters optimal growth conditions. 

 

5. Limit Fertilizer Use  

Most houseplants don’t require anything fancy in terms of fertilizer – a 10-10-10 fertilizer is fine, though an eco-friendly fertilizer is recommended. Often, eggshells and coffee grounds are touted as effective substitutes for homemade fertilizer, but many advanced gardeners caution against this. Coffee grounds won’t break down fast enough to be absorbed into the soil, which can lead to mold. Additionally, store bought ones tend to provide more consistent results compared to homemade fertilizers.   

 

6. Water on the Same Day of the Week                

Watering on the same day of the week reduces the chance of you accidentally forgetting to water them. Indoor planters with self-watering systems are also game changers, but for those that prefer to do things old-school, regular watering will help you keep track of them. The internal wicking system in place regulates watering, ensuring that both thirsty plants and drought tolerant varieties are taken care of. Alternatively, you can also purchase your own wick online for cheap and add it to your houseplants, though the DIY won’t work as well unless you get the soil mixture completely right. 

 

7. Irrigate Houseplants with Fish Tank Waste Water 

 The next time you’re changing your aquarium, don’t dump it out (unless it’s heavily polluted and smelly) – use it to water houseplants. One hack that’s legit is to use aquarium water to water your houseplants. The basis of aquaponics, aquarium water is full of nutrients that can promote lusher growth, dubbed the proverbial ‘liquid gold.’  

 

8. Play Music to Your Plants

If you’re a believer in the power of positive affirmations, take the time to empower your plants through music. Although it sounds silly, there’s anecdotal evidence to suggest that playing music around plants or even talking to them can promote growth. Scientists have hypothesized that the vibrations present in music are mimicking the rhythms of the natural world, such as breezes or birdsong. Any type of music is fine, although many will advocate for classical music; however, in the MythBusters show, plants exposed to death metal actually grew better than the rest! 

9. Dust Your Houseplants      

Dusting your houseplants can make you feel like the butler of the house, but this little-known hack does have some merit. Plants depend on photosynthesis to survive, and dust affects their ability to photosynthesize effectively. Microfiber cloths dampened with water should do the trick, as will a spritz of the spray bottle. 

10. Leave Your Plants Alone   

What’s the fuss? Many common houseplants do well with some form of neglect – some even thrive on it. Many gardeners will attest that houseplants are tough and don’t require constant attention. Plants grow at a much slower pace, and are happy to be watered once in a while. Don’t check them daily for signs of distress or poke in the dirt constantly. Chances are if it’s something you find in an office, it’ll be able to withstand moderate neglect.