Lately we’ve found ourselves being home a lot more that usual. Some of us have taken to redecorating or spring cleaning. In the midst of this, let us not forget the benefits and beauty of some greenery in our indoor spaces. House plants can be useful, uplifting, and downright pretty to have around. Being that it’s spring, I figured it would be a good time to share some basic tips on house plant care, where to find some while under self quarantine, and the benefits of having them in your space (no social distancing required).
Benefits of Indoor Plants
First, let’s address the benefits of indoor plants. Maybe you fear your lack of a green thumb and avoid plants like the plague (no pun intended). Here are a few reasons why you should give them a try.
One of the biggest perks of indoor plants is their ability to purify the air in your environment, remove toxins, and provide more oxygen to the space you live in. More oxygen and clean air can help reduce stress and provide better sleep. Studies have also shown that having plants in your work space boosts productivity, creativity, and overall mood. And all this comes as a bonus to the fact that greens add life and vibrancy to any space, which can directly impact our overall sense of wellbeing.
Having recently started my own plant journey, I can say from experience the excitement to care for a new plant is real. There’s a reason succulents are trending. And speaking of succulents, these types of plants are one of the easier indoor plants to start with if you’ve never cared for one before. Other easy beginner plants might include Lucky Bamboo or Golden Pothos if you’re looking for something with more foliage. A good flowering plant to have would be an orchid since these generally require less fuss concerning lighting and water, which I’ll get more into in a bit. And of course don’t forget the super cute Cacti which add summer vibes and clean, minimal aesthetic to any space.
Watering and Lighting Tips
If you’re considering getting your hands on any of these plants, here are some tips on each of their watering and lighting needs:
Succulents and Cacti
Succulents and cacti do best with a “soak and dry” watering method. Allow the soil to fully dry out before watering again, and when you do, water until it runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. These also prefer at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Lucky Bamboos
Lucky Bamboos require their roots to be submerged in a few inches water at all times. They also like bright indirect sunlight. They are really easy since you don’t have to do much, except top off the water if it gets low or change the water if it starts to smell funny. Other than that, these are really hearty and great for beginners.
Orchids
Orchids can do well in a humid environment, like a bathroom that has a window. They like indirect, bright sunlight and can be watered by simply placing 2-3 ice cubes in the pot. The number of ice cubes depends on the size of the orchid, but the ice cubes will melt and provide a slow and gradual supply of water over a long period of time.
Golden Pothos
Golden Pothos (or sometimes called a Money Plant) requires that you let the top couple inches of the soil dry between waterings, but don’t soak. These crawling plants like moderate, low light the best.
If you’re looking to get your plant fix to carry you through the quarantine, check out the florists listed in the Living In Oakland Park Quarantine Directory.
All are offering alternative shopping options including online ordering, curbside pick up, and restricted hours to continue to best serve the community and do their part to slow the spread. And if you want to simply learn more about plants and enjoy some green eye candy check out @followpetals on Instagram for the adventures of South Florida’s first mobile plant boutique.
