While it is a chilly winter in Iowa, and few green plants can be seen outdoors now is a good time to begin new indoor plants and trees. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach horticulturists recommend ponytail palms, jade plants, and umbrella trees. The ponytail palm, also called an elephant-foot tree, is an easily grown, low maintenance houseplant. It should be placed in a brightly lit location near an east or west window. The ponytail palm is a type of succulent, and the potting soil should dry out well between waterings.

Jade plants like sunny windows where they receive at least four hours of direct sunlight. It is another succulent, storing water in its foliage and stems. Umbrella trees are native to Australia and New Guinea’s rainforests and in homes they should be placed in bright, indirect light. For both jade plants and umbrella trees allow the potting soil to dry between waterings in spring and summer, and reduce the frequency of watering by a few more days in fall and winter.