Spring is almost here, so it's the perfect time to bring a little of the outdoors in with a few house plants.
Gardening novice? Not a problem. We've found four plants hardy enough to survive even the most forgetful gardeners' home. They're pretty, too.
1.Succulents
What are they? Succulents - like the Money Tree, Sedum and Aloe Vera - are characterised by their fleshy-looking leaves and ability to hold water. So, yup, you guessed it - they can go a long time without water. Hoorah! Mix and match different types of succulent in pots of varying sizes to create a stylish arrangement on your windowsill or mantle.
How do I keep them alive? Virtually indestructible, Succulents can survive almost any temperature, though they thrive between room temperature and 29C. Water generously during summer, but do allow soil to dry before re-watering. In winter while your plant is dormant, cut back watering to just once every other month.
Buy at: Etsy.com
2. Sanseviera
What is it? With upright-growing leaves which often have a yellow or white edge, the Sanseviera has a sculptural look to it, which means it's a great addition to modern interiors. It's aptly nicknamed "mother-in-law's tongue" thanks to its strong, sharp pointed leaves.
How do I keep it alive? This super-hardy houseplant will survive almost any lighting and temperature, just remember - don't overwater it. It survives best in dry air and sitting in equally dry soil.
Note: the Sanseviera is toxic to cats and dogs, so keep it out of reach of furry friends.
Buy it at:Homebase.co.uk
3. Yucca
What is it? This attractive, tropical-looking houseplant is ideal for dressing up a sparse room as it grows tall and thin with upright leaves.
How do I keep it alive? Sometimes called the "no water plant", the Yucca is another plant that's safe in even the most forgetful hands. It does however like light, so place it near a window. It needs watering every 10 days or so, and to keep it looking extra healthy, give it a dose of fertiliser two to three times a year. Easy peasy.
Buy it at:Ikea.com
4. Cyclamen
What is it? Cyclamen are a great option if you want a flowering plant that takes minimum maintenance. They flower for six to eight weeks with attractive, upright blossoms.
How do I keep it alive? Cyclamen fare best in warm conditions while flowering, though ideally out of direct sunlight. They like moist soil but don't take well to overwatering, so the best way to water them is by soaking overnight in a inch of water once a week to rehydrate. When its flowers fall off, your Cyclamen will want to relocate to a cool, dry home for its dormant period.
Finally, Cyclamen need a little pruning (not a lot, we promise) - just give dead leaves a firm tug at the stem to remove when they turn yellow.
Buy it at:Ikea.com
Want to make a stylish statement with your green fingered hobby? Plant your new addition in one of these pretty pots...