We Asked Houseplant Experts About The Plants Even They Avoid

The verdant indoor jungles of social media can appear to have every houseplant under the sun, but don't be fooled: There are certain plants that even the most experienced of green thumbs don't bring into their spaces.

According to plant coach and urban farmer Nick Cutsumpas, fine-leaved ferns like the Maidenhair can be hard to keep happy. "Their leaves are so delicate that any dry conditions (be it too much direct sun, or a missed watering) can lead to intense leaf shedding," Cutsumpas tells mbg.

Alessia Resta of Apartment Botanist goes so far as to say that the Maidenhair fern is the one plant she'll never purchase again. "I really love other ferns like the Bird's nest and Boston fern," she adds, "but the Maidenhair is one I would say to avoid—especially if you're starting out and wanting to strengthen your 'plant confidence.'"

With that being said, if you are up to the challenge of caring for these delicate beauties, placing them in the right spot is key. "Make sure to keep the fern in indirect light and high humidity," says Cutsumpas. Since ferns are understory plants that love moisture, they typically do well in bathrooms that get natural light. In addition to consistent humidity, thirsty Maidenhairs also need a good soak every few days. Whenever the top of their soil feels slightly dry to the touch, it's time to water.

You'll find over 165 houseplants in Kocken's Dutch collection—but none of them are Calatheas. Known for striking patterned leaves, this dramatic plant family has become really popular among collectors. "But be warned," Kocken tells mbg, "they can suddenly crash and die for no clear reason, leaving plant parents to think they did something wrong or even that they are just bad with plants. It's not you, it's them!"