Looking after houseplants is not difficult, but some may need special attention. Buy plants with a specific care label with a botanical name on it. This helps you identify the three key elements your plant needs to grow, and therefore where it would be happiest - how much light the plant needs, how warm it likes to be, and how much water to give it.

Try to choose houseplants that like the conditions in your home or the way you look after your plants. For instance, if you have warm sunny rooms cacti are ideal; whereas shady areas would suit ferns or ivy. Azaleas are ideal for those who overwater plants; and bromeliads for those who forget!

Don't forget to feed your plants regularly - to give them the energy to flower, produce new roots, and encourage healthy leaf growth. There are many different types of plant food available - make sure you use one for either flowering or foliage plants, as appropriate, as the ingredients are different. If you have plants with broad glossy leaves, give them an occasional wipe over with a damp cloth. The plant's 'lungs' are in its leaf surface - and if it's choked with dust it can't breathe.

New plants will not need feeding as the compost contains enough nutrients for at least six weeks growth. Some flowering houseplants have a dormant period when they recuperate after a season of growth; during this time they need less watering and feeding. Talking to plants is not so daft either, as you are breathing carbon dioxide on them, which they need to survive. It also allows you to inspect, close up, for pests and diseases or signs of stress.

Quality of your plants is vital, so inspect them well before you purchase and only buy from a reputable source. Choose houseplants with lush healthy leaves and new growth. Buy flowering plants when the buds are just opening; and remove dead flowerheads to encourage new flowers to open.

We hope this gives you fresh new ideas for using plants in your home or work! Remember all living houseplants help increase feelings of relaxation and well being, and help you breathe more easily. So whatever houseplants you choose to have around you, they will improve your mind, body and spirit - as well as beautify your surroundings.