All of us know about the importance of houseplants, especially more after the pandemic. Apart from the craving for the outdoors brought in, adding plants to one’s space has been calming moods, bettering interiors and making people feel happier.
For some of us plants signify decor, while for some plants are actually baptised babies because why not. These green babies have been fighting pollution and being a sight for sore eyes for all kinds of moments.
Here are some of our recommendations of plants who are not only good-lookin’ but also give out some super healthy vibes.
The Sizzling Snake
The snake plant is the first choice for many brown thumbs. Apart from its low-maintenance, this natural beauty converts carbon dioxide to oxygen at night. Hello, rested sleep!
Placing this solid creation has been lifting spaces and purifying the air around it. The snake plant also removes toxic pollutants which are prevalent in metropolitan cities. Called the night air filter- you’ll see this propped up in every bedroom out there, basking in the glory of not needing the sun’s rays each day.
Snake plants are also a great addition if you have pets at home, as they are quite effective in removing airborne allergies, and odors. Although, you shouldn’t let your pet chew any of it as it’s toxic for them. But then, not many pets are attracted to this straight arrow so that’s a plus.
Brownie points
Easy to care for
Requires little water to survive
Best kept in low-light areas
Resilient and hardy, doesn’t need any spoon feeding
Taking care
- Overwatering is the mother of disaster for this mother-in-law’s tongue. Overwatering makes the snake plant weak, and can lead to root rot. Make sure the pot you’re using has a drainage hole. You must have read this in a couple more places, but try placing your finger within 2 cm of the soil. If your finger gets wet with mud, the plant doesn’t need to be watered, and if it comes out dry- it is ready for some water baby.
- We know the snake plant doesn’t require much light but don’t place it in a completely dark room. It does need partial sunlight for strong leaves. If you don’t have a very well-lit space, you can take your plant out for a sunlight walk at an interval of 4-5 days or when you see the leaves begin to droop.
Height
Can grow between 6 inches to several feet
Spider plant
The spider plant tops the charts as an air purifier, along with its medicinal properties. This branching out creation can pretty much survive it all. No, you won’t break its heart if you constantly forget to water it, or even over water it as it knows how to stick to the subtle art of not giving a damn.
Spidey is also a great choice to complement your balcony’s look, and has the charming quality of removing harmful air chemicals. So if you’re planning for a DIY paint session, count spidey as a saviour. It also looks beautiful in a hanging basket, while leaving its locks for a perfect green fashion show.
To add a little more to Spidey’s super powers, we have a few words from NASA.
“ NASA found in preliminary tests that spider plants were the champs in removing formaldehyde (a common household chemical), removing 95 percent of the toxic substance from a sealed Plexiglas chamber in 24 hours..”
If you’re wondering as to why NASA is interested in plants, greenery has been an intrinsic part of ecological life-support systems for space travel. So, growing your own fresh air does come under their research and is a resource all green thumbs regularly visit.
Brownie points
Can adapt to any climatic condition
Increases humidity with its high transpiration rate (perfect for dry weather)
Looks great in a hanging basket
Taking care
- Even though the spider plant can survive anything like a bed of roses, it does need optimum care to grow to its full potential. The best spot for Spidey is a spot with bright yet indirect sunlight. Direct and strong sunlight can cause browning to the leaf tips, and create spots.
- As for watering, once a week works well during spring and summer. Stay away from watering it during monsoons as rainwater works best for it (a point one must stick with for all plants). If your plant is still a baby, it might need to be watered a little more than a full-grown plant.
Height
Can grow to 2 feet wide and 2-3 feet long
Areca palm
The Areca Palm is the perfect description of a glow-up. Get it home, and you’ll see an instant uplift in your space, mood, feelings, and everything around you. Highest in growth rate during spring, areca is both a great indoor and outdoor plant. Similar in looks to the bamboo family, it is also low-maintenance once situated in the right light.
Areca is an elegant option for a large living room, and wide corridors. Having it in the bedroom might feel a little too much for some, especially if it doesn’t get enough sunlight.
All in all, getting one home helps one bring the tropical vibe in, which definitely looks great with a hippie or bohemian setting.
Brownie points
Feels like the head of the family
Does not need high maintenance
Adds to the look of the room
Taking care
- As there are so many kinds of palm trees, the best way to take care of the one you get is to feed it well, by giving it enough water and sunlight. A well-draining container is essential for a full-grown Areca.
- Soggy soil will definitely lead to root rot, so only water when the soil is dry. Even though it can be kept indoors, keep taking it out for a little sun peek in diffused sunlight.
- As for the perfect spot, keep it at a place that isn’t frequented with a lot of movement as they like to enjoy their space without interruptions.
- It also needs a consistently warm environment with high humidity and the right lighting to grow well indoors.
Height
Can grow 10-13 ft tall indoors and over 30 feet outdoors
Liked what you read? Begin with these top 3 choices to revamp your space, and we promise it’ll only get better!