Garden

14 Houseplants You Can Borrow From Friends and Grow for Free

Written by Emily Belkoff

Ever been jealous of your friend’s gorgeous plants? I used to be, until I learned you can just ask for a piece to grow your own. 

Now my house is full of plants, and I didn’t spend a dime. Here’s how you can do it too.

1. Haworthia

Haworthia is my go-to plant for newbie gardeners. These little succulents are incredibly easy to propagate.

  • Ask friends for haworthia pups or offsets
  • They form individual roots, making them super easy to pot
  • Perfect for brightening up small spaces

2. Cactus

Who doesn’t love a quirky cactus? They’re not just cute; they’re also simple to multiply.

  • Borrow offsets from friends
  • The bunny ear cactus is a great example
  • Just remove the pads and plant them

3. Peace Lily

Peace lilies are my favorite air-purifying plants. Here’s how to get them for free:

  • Ask for some pups from a friend’s plant
  • You can grow them directly in a new pot
  • They thrive in low-light conditions

4. Pothos

Pothos is my go-to trailing plant. It’s perfect for newbies and experienced gardeners alike.

  • Request a 4-6 inch cutting below the node
  • Root it in soil or water
  • Watch it grow into a lush, trailing beauty

5. Inch Plant

The inch plant, also known as wandering jew, is a colorful addition to any home.

  • Easily propagated from cuttings
  • Grows quickly, perfect for impatient gardeners like me

6. Prayer Plant

I love the unique leaf movements of prayer plants. Here’s how to get one:

  • Ask for a cutting below the nodes close to the stem’s bottom
  • Root it in a potting mix
  • Enjoy its daily “prayer” ritual

7. Croton

Crotons are my go-to plants when I want to add a pop of color to my home.

  • Various varieties and shades available
  • Take 3-4 inch long cuttings
  • Root in lightweight potting mix or water

8. Jade and Dwarf Jade

Jade plants are believed to bring good luck. Who wouldn’t want that?

  • Propagate from 4-5 inch stem cuttings
  • Easy to care for, perfect for busy moms

9. Good Luck Plant

Also known as bamboo palm, this plant is said to bring prosperity.

  • Propagate from cuttings
  • Use a well-draining succulent mix for rooting

10. English Ivy

I love using English ivy to create a cozy, cottage-like atmosphere indoors.

  • Easily propagated from cuttings
  • Great for hanging baskets or climbing structures

11. Gerbera Daisy

These cheerful flowers always brighten up my day.

  • Take a 6-8 inch cutting from a healthy plant
  • Root in quality potting mix
  • Enjoy colorful blooms year-round

12. Philodendron

Philodendrons are my secret weapon for creating a tropical vibe at home.

  • Borrow divisions with roots and stems
  • Easy to care for and fast-growing

13. Cast Iron Plant

As a busy mom, I appreciate low-maintenance plants like the cast iron plant.

  • Propagate through divisions
  • Keep soil moist until new growth forms
  • Nearly impossible to kill!

14. Eureka Palm

Want to bring a touch of the tropics indoors? Try the Eureka Palm.

  • Propagate from offshoots
  • Divide the clump and grow in a separate pot
  • Creates a stunning focal point in any room

15. Bird of Paradise

Last but not least, the dramatic bird of paradise is easier to propagate than you might think.

  • Use rhizome division for propagation
  • Slice a piece of rhizome and apply rooting hormone
  • Plant in well-draining soil and water regularly
Hi! I'm Emily!

I'm a mom who's passionate about creating beautiful gardens without the hassle. Here, I share simple tips that actually work for busy people like us.

From picking the right plants to making them thrive, I'll help you create an outdoor space you'll love!

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