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Houseplants can make a big difference to a room - but keeping them alive isn't always easy. Whether it is over or under watering them or placing them in the right amount of light or shade it can be a juggling act.

And when holidays come around it can be hard for even the most green-fingered of us, especially when it has been a longer vacation. But for those who love to have plants in their homes, those trips can come with the question - will my houseplants survive until I get back. Plant experts, , say if you pick the right plants you can head off confident they will be there for you on your return.

The specialist say whether it's a weekend break or a fortnight in the sun, there are plenty of houseplants that are so resilient they will still thrive with minimal attention. They have drawn up a list of seven of the most resilient and hard-to-kill varieties which they say can withstand your break so you don't need to worry.

1: Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

This plant is practically indestructible. They store water in their thick, upright leaves, making them drought-resistant. They can go two to three weeks without water and tolerate low light, ideal for apartments or offices.

Care Highlights:

• Water: Every 2-3 weeks

• Light: Low to bright indirect light

• Bonus: Purifies indoor air

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

This is a favourite plant for frequent travellers. Its waxy, oval-shaped leaves store moisture, and it thrives in low-light environments. Even if left for a month, it will still look healthy and full.

Care Highlights:

• Water: Once a month

• Light: Low to medium light

• Bonus: Tolerates neglect like a champ

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

This plant's heart-shaped leaves and cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves, Pothos is not only beautiful but also forgiving. It's extremely adaptable and can survive inconsistent watering and various lighting conditions. To keep it healthy while you are away all you need to do is give it a good soak before you leave.

Care Highlights:

• Water: When the soil feels dry

• Light: Low to bright indirect light

• Bonus: Fast-growing and easy to propagate

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

This resilient plant is known for its long, arching leaves and baby "spiderettes." It can handle short periods of drought and bounces back quickly from neglect.

Care Highlights:

• Water: Every 1-2 weeks

• Light: Bright indirect to low light

• Bonus: Non-toxic and pet-friendly

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is nearly unkillable. Native to the forest floors of Japan and Taiwan, it thrives in low light and poor soil, and it's not fussy about watering.

Care Highlights:

• Water: Every 2-3 weeks

• Light: Low to moderate light

• Bonus: Great for dim corners

Succulents & Cacti

Succulents and cacti are nature's desert dwellers. They store water in their leaves or stems and can go weeks without a drink. Just be sure they're in well-draining soil and placed near a bright window.

Care Highlights:

• Water: Every 3-4 weeks

• Light: Bright light or direct sun

• Bonus: Huge variety of shapes and sizes

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

While it appreciates regular watering, the Peace Lily is forgiving if you forget now and then. It droops dramatically when thirsty, making it easy to read, and perks back up after a drink.

Care Highlights:

• Water: Weekly or when drooping

• Light: Low to medium indirect light

• Bonus: Beautiful white blooms and air-purifying qualities

How to keep plants at their best when you travel

Beards & Daisies say there are steps you can take to make sure your plants have the best chance of surviving your trip. They advise before you head off you should:

• Hydrate Before You Go: Water your plants thoroughly a day before departure.

• Use Self-Watering Systems: Options range from DIY bottle spikes to stylish ceramic globes.

• Group for Humidity: Cluster plants together to create a micro-humidity zone.

• Mulch the Soil: A layer of pebbles or moss helps retain moisture.

• Move Them Out of Direct Sunlight: Reduces the water evaporation rate.

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