6 Houseplants That Flourish in Spring, and the Changes You Need to Make to How You Look After Them

Welcoming spring into your home is strikingly incomplete without introducing a couple of new seasonal houseplants to your home. After all, this time of year revolves around nature going back into bloom after the winter's hiatus.

So I asked the experts for the best spring houseplants to green out your home. Think classics like orchids, peace lily, and hydrangeas, to some unexpected additions like fishbone cacti, ferns, and lemon trees. Plus, some tips on things to do for your houseplants in spring for a lush indoor garden.

Without further ado, let's get into it.

1. Orchids

Monique Kemperman, horticultural expert at Plants & Flowers Foundation Holland, tells me that orchids are a true classic for spring indoor gardens. "The flower's elegant blooms and wide range of colors bring instant brightness to any interior space," she says.

"During spring, this plant enters its growing phase. So, I recommend watering your orchids once a week and always using lukewarm water. For optimal orchid care, you can keep it in bright, indirect light."

She finds that it's best to avoid direct sun, which can damage the leaves. Plus, she suggests gently wiping the leaves to remove dust, so the plant can absorb more light.

2. Peace Lily

Kelly Dyer, lead horticulturalist at Patch Plants, tells me that the peace lily is another brilliant spring houseplant. "I recommend adding liquid plant food to your watering can and applying every two weeks to once a month until October," she says.

"This will help your plants put on lots of new leafy growth and promote flowering. This idea is to provide a replacement for the nutrients your plants are using up rapidly throughout the growing season."

Jo Lambell, founder of Beards & Daisies, also recommends peace lilies for spring, saying: "Keep it away from direct sunlight, and if it hasn't bloomed in a while, try moving it somewhere with a little more natural light. Also, the leaves droop slightly when it needs a drink. It's one of the most honest plants for an indoor garden."

Kelly Dyer

Kelly Dyer is an RHS-trained Horticulturalist with years of practical experience as a senior gardener, glasshouse gardener, and freelance garden designer. As Patch’s Plant Doctor, she helps customers hone their own skills with in-depth plant care advice and troubleshooting.

3. Fishbone Cactus

If you're looking for a spring houseplant that's a talking point and a striking source of greenery in one pretty planter, Jo recommends the fishbone cactus. As far as types of cactus go, it stands out in style.

And as far as care goes, Jo suggests moving it to a brighter spot in your home a sthe light improves. "An east or west-facing windowsill works well, and water a little more regularly than you would in winter," she advises.

"Always let the soil dry out fully between waterings. It may look dramatic, but it still has cactus instincts. And if roots are creeping out of the drainage holes, spring is the ideal time to move it up one pot size."

Jo Lambell

Jo, the founder of Beards & Daisies and author of The Unkillables, discovered her passion for houseplants in 2001 after transporting a six-foot monstera home on public transport. This sparked the idea for a business that makes plant delivery more accessible. As Beards & Daisies approaches its 10^th anniversary, it offers a carefully curated selection of indoor plants, from prayer-plants to palm trees. Jo and her Plant Folk team are all about spreading plant love and sharing expert tips with both budding and seasoned plant enthusiasts. And with their 100% recyclable or compostable packaging, they’re keeping things green in more ways than one. 

4. Hydrangea

According to Monique, hydrangea is another houseplant that flourishes in spring. "Loved for its large, cloud-like blooms in shades of pink, blue, and white, hydrangea adds softness and volume to your space," she notes.

"Hydrangeas become thirstier as the season progresses, so it's important to keep the soil consistently moist, especially as they prepare for summer flowering. Position in partial shade, ideally away from strong afternoon sunlight."

She also tells me that the spring months from March to April are the perfect time for you to repot your hydrangeas or even plant in your outdoor garden, once the risk of frost has passed.

5. Fern

Spring is the time to channel your love for feathered plants with a fernery. Monique tells me that the lush, calming greenery from ferns is a great way to balance brighter flowering plants while adding textural intrigue to your space.

"With indoor heating reduced, conditions become more favorable, so make sure to keep soil lightly moist and increase humidity if needed. It's also worth noting that ferns prefer indirect light and slightly humid environments," she says.

"To remove dust from your ferns, I recommend misting the fronds. It'll also help refresh the plant, as any build-up on the leaves can block light and hinder growth."

6. Lemon Tree

And lastly, Kelly recommends bringing in a dreamy lemon tree as the final addition to your spring collection of houseplants. It's one of the best indoor fruit trees to grow, and it adds personality to your space.

"As it warms up and you start to open windows, be aware of cold draughts directly on your houseplants. If you've moved your plants closer to windows to get as much light as possible over winter, avoid scorching on leaves," says Kelly.

"I recommend moving them away from harsh, direct sunlight as summer unfolds. And feed your lemon tree with citrus food at least once a month for steady growth." This Baby Bio Citrus Food from Amazon is a top choice.

Spring Planters to Shop

Since spring cultivars bring a flair of their own, I recommend styling your collection with a touch of houseplant minimalism. And if you're looking for more advice on plant styling and designing a beautiful home, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.