Back-to-School: Low-Maintenance Picks for Students

Back-to-School: Low-Maintenance Picks for Students

Heading off to uni or moving into student accommodation? A houseplant might not be on your checklist—but trust us, it should be! Not only do plants brighten up your space, they’ve also been shown to boost mood, reduce stress, and even improve focus. But as a student, you’ll want something easy to care for.

At Plant Paradise by Gemma we help students and busy young adults find the perfect fuss-free greenery. Here are our top low-maintenance plant picks to survive (and thrive) through lectures, deadlines, and the occasional forgotten watering.


🌱 Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Practically indestructible, the snake plant is ideal for beginners. It tolerates low light, doesn’t need much water, and looks sleek in any room. Plus, it's known for filtering air—perfect for stuffy student flats.

Student Perk: Only needs watering every 2–3 weeks.


🌿 ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant is your ultimate “set it and forget it” option. It thrives in most conditions, from low light to neglect, and its glossy leaves look fresh all year round.

Student Perk: It’s nearly impossible to kill—even during exam week.


🍀 Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

If you want something leafy and fast-growing, pothos is your new best friend. It’s great for shelves, desks, or hanging from your wardrobe, and it only needs watering when the soil feels dry.

Student Perk: Can grow just about anywhere, even in poor light.


🌵 Cactus & Succulents

Cacti and succulents are tiny but mighty! These hardy little guys love sunny windowsills and only need watering every few weeks. Perfect for small desks or shared spaces.

Student Perk: Low cost, low effort, high vibes.


🪴 Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

For something a bit more elegant, the peace lily adds a touch of calm. It’s great for low-light corners and even lets you know when it’s thirsty (the leaves droop!). Super forgiving and rewarding.

Student Perk: Blooms indoors and purifies the air.


🎓 Bonus Tips for Student Plant Success:

  • Group plants together to help maintain humidity

  • Use pots with drainage holes to prevent root rot

  • Set a reminder on your phone for watering

  • Ask us for help! We offer personal help tips and can recommend the best plant for your room setup


🚚 Need Help Getting Started?

At Plant Paradise by Gemma we offer:

  • Affordable starter plants and student-friendly pots

  • Honest advice from real people—no green thumb required

Pop in before term starts, or message us with a photo of your space and we’ll match you with your perfect plant buddy.


🪴 Final Thought

Plants are a brilliant way to make your student space feel more like home—with minimal effort and maximum benefit. Whether you need something hardy, calming, or compact, we’ve got the perfect plant waiting for you at Plant Paradise by Gemma.

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