Happy National House Plant Appreciation Day!
For some sadly the hustle and bustle of the holiday season has come to an end. Family and friends may have left and you look around your home and think “Gosh so empty”. It’s quiet, without guests and the sparkle of the Christmas tree and all the decorations. You may be glad for a little peace but you may just be missing something, houseplants.
I have heard so many friends tell me “I’m just not a green thumb” or “everything I grow dies”. I’m here to tell you: you can do it. With a few house plants you can reap the health benefits, fill in those empty spots and brighten up your home.
Health Benefits:
- Did you know that houseplants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen?! You may have learned this biology class growing up. The process called photosynthesis: plants use sunlight, water and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and energy in the form of sugar. We need oxygen to breathe and we release carbon dioxide for what the plants need. It is a natural life cycle which ultimately improves your air quality in your home.
- Having something to focus on rather than empty nesting, like us, by watering and giving a little TLC may lessen your stress. Give yourself a little mood boost by adding that green plant. It may even motivate you to add more than just one house plant, get creative.
Plant Suggestions:
Fiddle Fig: Want a little height in the corner of the room? The fiddle fig will do the job. It requires bright, in direct light and watering every 7-10 days from the bottom of the plant.
Philodendron*/Pothos: how about that “vine hanging” look on the book shelf? Grab one of these! They require indirect sunlight and watering every couple of weeks.
Spider Plant: another of my favorites to hang from the ceiling with a hook and a macramé plant holder or in the kitchen window sill for that bright light and easy watering weekly.
Peace Lily*: This is also a great corner filler and it loves a once-a-week water. These can tolerate a low light but indirect light is best for blooming.
Monstera Deliciosa*: These can grow huge leaves and hanging air roots. I love these- almost like a piece of art themselves! Water every two weeks from the bottom and prefers medium to bright indirect light.
Aloe Vera, Jade and Snake Plants* are drought tolerant and not a lot of maintenance required. These also make great table top displays.
Want a few flowering indoor plants to bring some color other than green? Orchid, Amaryllis, African Violet, Christmas Cactus or Angel Wing Begonia are all great options. You will love then those flowers emerge and show you their beauty.
Now I did just give you the suggestion list of all the plants I have in my home, but there are so many more out there. Spread a little House Plant Appreciation today, by giving your child, neighbor or coworker a little something special. A small potted house plant always puts a smile on a face, and they, too, will appreciate and celebrate this special day. Start by taking a look at your natural lighting in your home, and any empty spaces you would like to fill. Then, visit your local nursery and ask a bunch of questions. Before you know it, you will be having cleaner air and a little something to tend to all while giving you a boost of JOY. when you see all the green.
*Warning these may be toxic to cats and dogs*
