5 flowering houseplants to keep blooming for a “living bouquet”

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Cyclamen can bloom in white, pink, red or purple, with petals that curl backward for a butterfly-like look. To keep flowers going, place the plant in indirect light near an east- or north-facing window and keep it in a cool room that stays between 60 and 70 F (15 to 21 C). The plants also prefer humidity, so set the pot on a pebble tray with water or run a humidifier nearby. Because cyclamen are susceptible to root rot, avoid wetting the crown (where roots meet lower stems); one approach is to water from below by setting the pot on a saucer of water and letting the soil draw it up through the drainage hole, then discarding any remaining excess. Fertilize monthly during active growth, budding and flowering, then stop watering and feeding in late spring when leaves yellow and move the plant to a cool, dim or dark spot to rest until fall.

African violets need slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. They don’t require heavy feeding, but they should be fertilized with a 20-20-20 houseplant fertilizer (or a mix formulated for African violets) every two or three months. Light timing matters: from October through the end of February, give them direct light, and during the spring and summer move them off to the side rather than directly in front of a north- or east-facing window. Wet leaves can cause spotted, blotchy foliage, so bottom-water with room-temperature water and avoid letting the pot sit in water for too long. They also do best with warmth (without overheating) and high humidity, which can be supported by a humidifier or a pebble tray if the room air is dry.

Bromeliads bloom only once, with their green leaves giving way to tall bracts in colours such as red, yellow, orange, purple or peach that can last for months. After flowering, the plant produces “babies,” with the mother gradually fading as the next generation takes over. These plants are also straightforward to water because they absorb moisture through their leaves rather than their roots. Keep them in bright, indirect light and pour water into the central cup formed by the leaves, then rinse out that reservoir weekly before refilling with fresh, room-temperature water.

Peace lilies prefer bright, indirect light and temperatures between 64 and 72 F (17 and 22 C). Keep the soil slightly moist with regular watering, but avoid making it soggy, and mist the foliage occasionally with room-temperature water. Removing faded flowers can encourage additional blooming.

Kalanchoe does best in full sun that isn’t harsh, with daytime temperatures between 50 and 70 F (10 to 21 C). Cooler nights help extend flower life, with nighttime temperatures of 45 to 65 F (7 to 18 C). Grow it in well-draining potting mix and let the soil dry slightly between waterings. During its active growing period, fertilize once a month with ordinary houseplant fertilizer.