If you have young kids at home, carefully consider plant placement. You might want to avoid a large, floor-standing plant—which might tempt your toddler to dig through the potting soil—but opt instead for trailing ivy that can be set on top of your kitchen cabinets. For those shopping for plants online, keep in mind the conditions the plant will have to endure to get to its forever home—moving to or from regions where temperatures can be extreme might cause indoor plants might to wilt or die in transit depending on their hardiness. If you live in a very humid climate, the middle of summer might not be the best time to have a plant suited for more moderate climes shipped to your home. If you have your heart set on a certain variety that doesn’t match your home’s humidity level, misting the plant often or investing in a humidifier or dehumidifier can help. RELATED: 7 Humidity-Loving Plants That Will Thrive in Your Bathroom While you’re repotting your new houseplant, make sure it has adequate drainage. Look for a pot with a drainage hole, and place a saucer underneath to protect your furniture. Alternatively, a layer of rocks or pebbles on the bottom of a pot can help elevate the roots above any standing water, helping to prevent root rot.
