Today is Houseplant Appreciation Day and for those of us who may live in small, urban spaces, houseplants are the one way we stay connected to nature. Not to mention the health benefits of having these living, breathing elements in your life (they keep your indoor air clean!).
It doesn’t take two green thumbs to continually enjoy the beauty of indoor plants. Follow these 4 rules when choosing your next houseplant:
Location, Location, Location
Just as in purchasing a new home, location is everything when it comes to finding success with your houseplants. If your space lacks windows, look for plants that thrive in low light such as ferns or pothos. Have a sunny breakfast nook with big windows? Consider adding a lemon tree. There are even plants that love the moist humidity of your bathroom such as aloe vera—whose gel, by the way, can be used to quickly treat minor cuts and burns as well as insect bites.
Consider Your Schedule
Some people want houseplants that require a lot of maintenance—they actually enjoy spending as much time as possible making sure their green housemates are healthy and happy. If that isn’t you—or if you have a schedule that keeps you out of the house most of the day (or even days if you travel)– look for plants that need little attention like a ficus or bamboo.
Look before You Buy
Even if you are buying plants from a reputable location (and we highly suggest that is the case), you need to look carefully before you buy. For flowering plants, choose ones with more buds than blooms, check branches and stems for disease or insects, and feel the soil with your fingers—making sure it isn’t too loose or too compacted.
Don’t Overlook the Container
The container in which your new little roommate will live can be just as important as the plant itself. Look for porous containers (terracotta, clay, etc.) with adequate drainage holes. “Healthy plants not only need room to grow, but also adequate oxygen for the roots,” says The Micro Gardener. In addition, consider the total weight for each container, noting that moist soil gets heavy. “Select containers made from lightweight materials or put them on castors before you plant.”
Looking for easy houseplants to add your space? We love this list from A Cup of Jo!
Talk to us: What is your favorite houseplant to have in your home?
Sources:
Better Homes and Gardens
The Micro Gardener
Costa Farms