Five tricks to get cheap houseplants

YOUR Christmas tree may be on its way to the recycler, but that doesn’t have to be the end of the greenery indoors.

There’s lots of ways to bring the outside in. Claire Bishop, a senior houseplant buyer at garden centre Dobbies, suggests creating a rainforest feel in the bathroom or a mini jungle for small spaces.

Try these budget-friendly ideas for a bloom of new houseplants . . . 

START SMALL: Succulent plants are easy to care for and even easier to find. Widely sold in supermarkets, garden centres and budget shops, they don’t cost much. Pick up mini succulents in ceramic pots at Sainsbury’s for £2.50 each. Or grab an indoor artificial alternative for £1 from Asda.

CLEAR THE AIR: Some plants, such as ivy, improve air quality. Ivy is also fast-growing, low maintenance and can be placed indoors or outdoors. Dobbies sells a 13cm pot for £4.99. Ikea sells one the same size for £3.

SAVE: £1.99 at Ikea

FAKE IT: Artificial plants can be so convincing some people water them by mistake. If you’re missing the Christmas tree, consider a fake large cheese plant. Wilko has one for £10, down from £15. Or check out the wide range of artificial plants at Asda.

SAVE: £5 at Wilko

FAIR SHARE: Instead of buying multiple different plants, club together with friends to share cuttings. You can also multiply your own houseplants. Succulents and geraniums are good for sharing. Find tips for successful growing from the Royal Horticultural Society at rhs.org.uk.

POT IT: Old containers from around the home — such as large-sized mugs — can be turned into plant pots for free. To buy new, check out B&M’s small Hereford planter pot in stylish grey for £7.99.
Just as appealing is the Argos Home stoneware planter, reduced from £15 to £9.