houseplants | how to
Houseplants make a lovely addition to any home, not just for their lush green foliage but also for their health properties. It is well known that many houseplants have the ability to detoxify the air by removing impurities. During photosynthesis plants draw in carbon monoxide and release oxygen, so adding a plant to each room of the house can increase oxygen levels. The art of caring for houseplants can also improve health and well-being by reducing stress and creating a calmer environment. Studies also show plants aid creativity and decrease fatigue, so you might want to consider introducing them to your office as well! Here are 3 houseplants we love:
cheese plant | monstera deliciosaLoved by Matisse and a permanent fixture in the home of Charles and Ray Eames, this striking plant is a favourite of ours. The Monstera is unmistakable with its giant glossy split leaves. It looks best when left to do its own thing and grow wild and free but, tame it if you must by tying it to a stake. If yours is abundant try cutting a couple of leaves and displaying them in a vase. Water evenly when the first couple of centimetres of soil is dry to the touch. Happiest in a bright location, but not in direct sunlight, as this will damage the leaves.
fiddle leaf fig | ficus lyrataA favourite of interior magazines this houseplant can make a room. Its large floppy leaves are unmistakable. Given time the fiddle will do its best impression of a tree. This houseplant can be tricky to look after so it is worth taking a cutting as back-up. To propagate a new plant cut a single leaf, dip the stalk into some rooting powder and then leave it in water. It will take some time, but eventually your cutting will grow roots and will be ready to pot in some soil. Water once a week when the soil feels dry to the touch. The fiddle leaf fig enjoys indirect sunlight.
string of pearls | senecio rowleyanusNo surprise how this succulent got its name, its round green pea-like leaves resemble a wonderful string of pearls. This is the perfect houseplant for a hanging planter. Suspended from the ceiling its delicate strings will cascade towards the ground, creating an eye-catching, cheerful display. Like all succulents it is easy to propagate, just snip off a pearl and sit it on top of some potting mix, it will eventually take root. Alternatively cut a whole string, plant the end in potting mix, coil the rest on top of the soil, and wait. This plant is toxic if ingested so make sure you handle with care and collect up any loose leaves. Water infrequently, and ensure good drainage. Will grow well in a sunny spot with a little shade.
- Plants will need less water in the winter months, and vice versa
- Under-watering is easier to fix than over-watering, so if in doubt give a little and see how your plant likes it – adjust accordingly
- As the seasons change so does the position of sunlight, this might mean your plant will prefer different spots in the house throughout the year
- Heating can dry out the air, so misting plants is a good idea to raise the humidity levels