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The best thing you can do for indoor plants is to learn something about their growing conditions and provide as close to those conditions as possible. If you see a problem developing, take action quickly.

Here are 5 common mistakes budding green thumbs make when trying to garden indoors.

1. Overwatering

The number one killer of houseplants is overwatering, which leads to root rot. Don't let your plants sit in water, and don't automatically water all your houseplants on a schedule.

2. Insufficient Light

Plants that are not getting as much light as they need will look pale, rather than a healthy green. You may also notice that new growth is spindly as it reaches for the sun, or that the leaves are growing out smaller than usual.

3. Exposure to Direct Heat

Placing your houseplant near a direct source of heat will not only fry your plant but also speed up dehydration. Some locations are obviously bad, but sometimes choices can be limited, so take this into account when making your plant purchases.

4. Ignoring Pest Problems

Indoor pests multiply quickly. There are no natural predators to keep them in check, so you have to be very diligent about checking for symptoms. Spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and scale can cover a plant in days. If severe enough, the plant may never recover.

5. Exposure to Drafts

Placing an indoor plant, especially a tropical or blooming plant, near a frequently opened door to the outside or too close to a window with limited insulation will have the same effect as leaving the plant unprotected outside.