As the New Year gets underway, many people are focused on improving themselves, including their health and productivity.

There are several benefits to having indoor plants, according to Healthline. They reduce stress and sharpen your attention. Working with them is also therapeutic and they might help you recover from illness faster. Plus, they are known to boost productivity, improve your outlook on work and improve your indoor air quality.

The Buffalo-area store Urban Roots is the country's only cooperative garden center. Patti Jablonski-Dobkin, the general manager of the co-op, says the first step is to start small — just a couple of plants. Any more than that and you will get overwhelmed, and your plants will pay for it.

She says you must think about light and humidity when it comes to filling your home with plants — not to mention watering. Before you take that new plant baby home, make sure you’re not getting additional surprises.

“Go somewhere reputable," said Patti. "Check the plant before you take it home. Make sure there aren't any diseases or insects. A lot of these plants are coming up from Florida.”

The best plants for new indoor gardeners are Zee Zees. Patti says they thrive on not being taken care of. Calatheas are another option. Those have a nice pop of color that is great for the winter blues.

When it comes to checking soil moisture, stick your finger into the dirt as far as you can. When you remove it, if there’s soil sticking to it, there’s moisture. If your finger comes out clean, it is time to water.