Question
I do NOT have a green thumb but I'd like to have a houseplant in my casual dining room.  I have a west facing window which gets sun until about 10:30 am every day.  A friend gave me a 7" pot I'd like to start with although I could repot later if needed.  Do you have any suggestions  regarding a plant type?  I have animals so I need to make sure nothing is dangerous to them just in case a cat or dog takes a nibble.  thanks for your time.

Answer
Hi Kelly,

West windows get afternoon sun. Perhaps you meant east facing.

No matter. I suggest a ZZ plant because it is the easiest of all plants to take care of and is unusual looking. It comes in various sizes from 6 to 10 inches. I suggest that you get one that is small enough so that the pot that it comes in will fit inside the 7" pot you already have. This will avoid repotting and disturbing the roots.

The ZZ Plant can survive on a sunny window sill or in moderately low light. In bright light, water every 2 to 3 weeks. In low light, water monthly. That is the only care it needs. Watering too frequently is the one thing that will do it in. It is not toxic to pets.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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