One of the easiest ways to add life to your home, a collection of potted plants will transform tired interiors into a stylish, vibrant abode
If you’ve been thinking about investing in some greenery to brighten up your abode but have hesitated over all the options out there, then let us step in and help you out.
From which houseplants to buy that are low maintenance (read: tough to kill) to the ones that add vibrancy to a room, here’s your guide to getting it right when it comes to picking out your new potted friends.
The versatile plants
Most indoor plants don’t require sunlight; photosynthesis is generated with the help of indoor light. If you’re looking for a versatile plant, the kentia palm and fiddle-leaf fig can work any room. “These are both beautiful to look at and are great air purifiers,” says Carol Sukkar of Home & Soul.
The low-maintenance plants
Jean-Charles Hameau of MyGreenChapter.com recommends the Chinese evergreen, said to bring fortune and good luck; the peace lily, which thrives in low-light conditions; and the borderline indestructible money plant. “Just make sure you keep it out of the reach of small children, dogs and cats, as the leaves of this plant are incredibly toxic,” he warns.
The desert plants
Since we live in the desert, we may as well embrace the style of plant that naturally thrives in the scarce and heat-heavy climate.“Aloe, sansevieria and cacti have a modern looking structure and suit our desert landscape,” says interior stylist Lilly Engelbrecht.
Three ways to help houseplants thrive
Water
Overwatering is a common plant killer so it’s better to err on the dry side. Feel the soil for moisture once a week. If the upper layer feels bone dry, it’s time to water. Cacti and succulents need less water; flowering pants need slightly more.
Feed
For flowering plants, their soil needs to be fertilised once a month. Non-flowering plants need their soil fertilised twice a year.
Groom
Almost all houseplants look better with regular grooming. Keep plants healthy and handsome by inspecting regularly for bugs, trimming faded flowers and leaves, and gently wiping down leaves.
After more plant inspiration? See how this interior stylist created a tropical feel to her garden by planting the ideal greenery.