How To Choose an Indoor Plant
January 2, 2010 by admin
Filed under Gardening Tips, Indoor
When you are in the looking for the right indoor plant, whether it is your first or you want to add another one to a collection, there are 5 main factors to consider.
First, what is your level of ability to care for the plant? A couple of things are important here. If this will be your first houseplant, then choose from among those that are easy to care for. Many fine indoor plants are very hardy and will thrive even as you develop the green-thumb touch. See our guide for plants that require little maintenance, and begin there. If you are away from home a lot, or if this indoor plant is for your work place, that list of easy-care plants will also provide options that will give you a great return for a small investment of time. On the other hand, if you are an expert gardener, or have the time to learn quickly, your options will be extended to include an indoor plant that might be more delicate, requiring more attention to detail like your home’s humidity, frequent watering, or consistent direct sunlight.
Secondly, consider your home environment. Factors include the amount of natural light available. If you live in a home with picture windows and good southern or eastern exposure, your choices are greater than for someone who lives in an apartment with windows facing only north, for example. If your living space or office does not feature abundant natural light, be sure to see our guide “Low Light Indoor Plants” for a listing of those that thrive in low light conditions. If your home gets very dry in the winter, or if your general climate is dry, you’ll want to choose plants that require less watering and humidity than if these are not concerns.
Thirdly, look for plants that meet the purpose you’re looking to fulfill. If you simply want some greenery, your options abound. If flowering plants are your desire, then choose from among those that will deliver the beauty and fragrance of blossoms. See our guide “10 Indoor Flowers” for wonderful options to fit the other conditions detailed here. Many homeowners are also looking for plants that will purify the air, removing pollutants commonly found in any house. Our guide “10 Houseplants For Making Indoor Air Very Clean and Healthy” will give you a great start in this direction.
Next, if small children or pets will be around the plants, it is important to buy those that are not toxic. Many plants can be quite poisonous, and should be avoided. A bit of research will help you discover whether or not the plant you are considering would be safe, should a child or pet take a nibble of it.
Finally, consider the space available in your home for plants. Trees will need space on the floor, and in time might grow to monopolize the light from one window. Most smaller potted plants simply require a bit of room on a table, desk or shelf, and are the most adaptable to any size home or office. Other plants prosper in hanging baskets where their branches and leaves can trail downward. Placing screws in the ceiling, near windows, may be required, so consider whether or not you are prepared to do that.
Indoor gardening is a growing hobby with many benefits, including beautifying the space, purifying the air, and enjoying relaxing time caring for living plants. Choose plants that will fit your style, and you’ll have years to enjoy them!
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