Nowadays, anyone can be a “plant person.” Keeping greenery alive may have required gardening intuition or – gasp – reading a book in years past. But with research made easy and answers a Google search away, you too can enjoy the benefits of houseplants.

The key to ensuring your plant babies not only survive – but thrive – is choosing types that are conducive to your living space, your local climate, and your lifestyle. Consider the following to determine which houseplants are best for you.

Is your living space flooded with light or not so much?

Some plants need more light than others. Some hardly notice either way. Houseplants that are perfect for a sunny window sill (direct light) include aloe, snake plants, jade plants, string of pearls, cacti, and yucca plants. A few that prefer indirect sunlight are Monsteras, spider plants, and ferns. Meanwhile, ZZ plants, rubber trees, and English ivy are incredibly adaptable and nearly impossible to kill. Tuck them in a dark corner and forget they’re there – they’ll keep on kicking.

Do you live somewhere humid or bone dry?

There are plenty of plants that thrive in humid conditions. Think ferns, parlor palms, and prayer plants. In fact, these houseplants love moisture so much, they’re perfect for bathrooms (so long as they get some light through a bathroom window). But if you live in the desert, don’t fight it. Set yourself up for success by choosing plants native to arid climates. Great options include wax plants, ox tongues, and succulents.

Will you be a doting plant parent or nah?

If you work long hours, go out of town frequently, or would rather spend your free time on other hobbies, steer clear of high-maintenance houseplants. Zebra plants, orchids, azaleas, and elephant ears are well-known divas. Instead, opt for cacti, rubber plants, and philodendrons – hardy varieties that can withstand dry spells.

Do you have pets or kids?

Some houseplants are toxic. So if you have pets or children, do your research before bringing new plant friends home. Should your cat, dog, or child experience symptoms upon ingesting a plant, immediately contact your vet, doctor, or poison control center.

For more home decor ideas – and to find out about local events and activities – head over to The Hawthorne’s blog.