I've been gardening for sixteen years now outdoors and have gotten to grips with oleander, olive, pinot noir grapes and figs.

Until recently, the only indoor plants that have survived for me have been a money tree (jade plant) and a ficus.

However, two weeks ago, my husband and I decided that instead of having voiles or nets in the bay window facing the street, we would like plants.

So far, we've bought a kentia palm from Homebase, three assorted dracaenas and an aloe vera from Lidl, plus a house leek and a spider plant from a boot fair today. I have my eye on a coconut palm from Lidl on special offer from 19 August.

I know that I mustn't overwater but what else ? (All the plants are quite small).

They are to go in the large bay of an East facing room 28ft long with a West facing smaller window at the other end.

Any advice much appreciated, also other plant suggestions,

thank you :)