Martha Stewart Shares Low-Maintenance Plants to Elevate Porches

Martha Stewart has unveiled a selection of low-maintenance houseplants that can transform small, often challenging porch spaces into vibrant green retreats. Her recommendations provide practical inspiration for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor living areas without the hassle of high-maintenance greenery.

Stewart emphasizes the importance of incorporating interesting plant specimens into daily life. “Whenever I am home, I always like to keep a collection of interesting specimens in my enclosed porch, around my sitting room, and in my servery, where I can see them every day,” she stated in a recent blog post. Among her current favorites are a variety of succulents, orchids, and cut chrysanthemums, all of which contribute to a lively aesthetic.

Dracaena: The Perfect Porch Companion

One standout in Stewart’s plant collection is the dracaena, also known as the dragon plant. This hardy species boasts over 170 varieties, distinguished by their grass-shaped leaves that sprout from thick, cane-like stems. “Dracaena is a low-maintenance, easy-to-maintain plant that does best in bright, indirect sunlight,” Stewart explained, highlighting its suitability for various environments.

The dracaena’s striking appearance makes it an attractive choice for porches. Stewart often showcases them in modern pots that effortlessly blend style with functionality. For example, the lightweight concrete Rosemead Home Charcoal Gray Pot complements the dracaena’s aesthetic while also providing an organic touch to any outdoor space.

Additionally, Stewart recommends the Live Dracaena Marginata Cane, which features long, narrow leaves with dark green and reddish-purple edges. This variant thrives in minimal light and requires little water, making it an ideal, vibrant addition to any porch setting.

Exploring More Plant Options

In her Bedford estate, Stewart also enjoys incorporating rhipsalis, a genus of cacti with approximately 35 distinct species. These plants have long, trailing stems that make them well-suited for display on pedestals or tall tables, creating an eye-catching vertical accent. “I have many types of rhipsalis growing in my greenhouse,” she shared.

As the winter months approach, Stewart’s plant selections serve as an inspiring blueprint for those seeking to bring life to their homes and outdoor spaces. By choosing low-maintenance varieties, such as dracaena and rhipsalis, individuals can enjoy the beauty of nature without the burden of extensive upkeep.

Stewart’s enthusiasm for container plants reflects her commitment to creating a joyful work environment at home. “I often display interesting and eye-catching container plants in my Winter House porch. The big floor-to-ceiling windows provide lots of light, and they all surround my desk, where I can enjoy them while writing or while attending remote meetings,” she noted.

As more people explore the benefits of indoor and outdoor gardening, Stewart’s insights serve as a valuable resource. Whether on a porch, patio, or in a home office, her recommendations for low-maintenance plants can inspire anyone to cultivate a lush, inviting space.