Houseplants Are HOT!

Houseplants Are HOT!

Growing Indoor Greenery

They say that everything old is new again, and what goes around comes around. This is certainly true when it comes to houseplants. After being very popular in the late 1960’s and early 70’s, indoor greenery became less trendy for awhile. Yet now, in the second decade of the twenty-first century, houseplants are hot once again.

And with good reason! Indoor plants make interiors look fresher and more inviting. Studies have shown that people feel better when they are surrounded by nature, whether it’s inside or out. Plants bring the natural world into our homes and provide color, fragrance, and humidity.

When it comes to color, people can choose easy-to-grow foliage plants such as this Aglaonema and Dracaena that have variegated leaves.

In addition to having plants in their homes, many also bring them into their workplaces. College students are purchasing plants for their dorm rooms, and restaurants display them in dining rooms. Perhaps it’s a response to the way we are always connected to our screens…being surrounded by plants reminds us of the real world. Or maybe it’s because people are posting so many photos of their lives online, and displays of houseplants create constantly evolving decor.

In the spring we can enjoy the flowers and sweet fragrance of the fairy primrose, Primula malacoides. These are not long-lived houseplants, but are great for late-winter pick me ups and providing color on tables, kitchen counters and windowsills.

The key to success with houseplants is to match the right plant to the growing conditions you have. Note which windows get a lot of direct sunshine and which ones are just bright without being sunny. If there are windows that face north, these can be used for shade-loving plants. Once you know what type of light you have, come into our greenhouse and talk with Marsha, Elizabeth or another member of the staff. They can steer you to plants that will do well in your environment. They’ll also let you know which plants are long-lived and what varieties are for temporary or seasonal enjoyment.

Houseplants look good clustered together. This also makes the air more humid, which benefits the plants as well as the people.
The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is one of the easiest indoor plants to grow. It will thrive in high or low light locations.
If you have a southern or western facing window, herbs can be combined with other indoor plants. On the right of this photo is a crown of thorns that flowers constantly. In the center of the photo is a tall terracotta pot of rosemary that can be cut for winter cooking.

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