So you just found your dream apartment! A beautiful place in one of the most prominent, forward-thinking, trend-setting cities in the world. And now you are wondering how to incorporate some nature into your own little concrete jungle. I mean, who doesn’t want some fresh air circulating in their home with all the outdoor pollution we have around us?
Indoor plants are proven to significantly improve air quality, improve psychical and mental health and reduce stress. And with Spring unfolding right before our eyes, it’s natural to want that outdoor energy inside of our homes! Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry! Below is a list of plants that come in a variety of colors and forms (because color scheme is important right?!), and are also super easy to grow indoors.
*Bonus: Some are on NASA’s top rated list of “air-scrubbers”, giving you exceptional air quality.
Chinese Evergreen*
This tropical foliage plant is one of the most durable houseplants you can grow; tolerating poor light, dry air and drought. You can find Chinese evergreen plants in many varieties, including variegated forms.
Soil Preference – Equal mix of potting soil, perlite and sand
Light Preference – Medium to low light conditions, or indirect sunlight
Ideal Temperature – No lower than 60 F with average indoor temps ranging between 70-72 F being most favorable. They will tolerate temps around 50-55 F.
Water Requirements – Moderate watering—not too much, not too little. Allow it to dry out some in-between
Growth – Starts small and grows slowly, although eventually they can grow to be 3-4FT
Silver Lace Fern
With its delicate, silvery green leaves and compact growth habit, the silver lace fern is an attractive ornamental perennial that can brighten up any indoor window ledge.
Soil Preference – Porous, well-draining potting soil, such as a peat moss-based house plant soil
Light Preference – Partial sunlight or partial shade, such as a north-facing windowsill
Ideal Temperature – 50 to 55°F during the night and 68 to 72°F during the day
Water Requirements – Water thoroughly and let drain. Once the soil starts to become dry, water again. Over-watering can cause root rot
Growth – Grows fairly quickly and can reach 2-3FT
*Dracaena Janet Craig
Dracaena Janet Craig plants, native to tropical Africa, are one of the most popular plants used in homes and offices because they thrive on neglect, low light, and very little water. (Which is why they are my personal favorite)
Soil Preference – Loose soil that drains quickly
Light Preference – Will grow slowly in low light and much faster in medium light. Avoid direct sunlight as leaves will burn.
Ideal Temperature – Keep above5°F and don’t expose to direct cold or heat.
Water Requirements – Allow the top 50% of the soil to dry out before watering. The lower the light, the less often a dracaena needs water. Fluoride, chlorine, or salt in the water causes brown tips and yellow spots on the leaves.
Growth – 3-4FT on average. Some can grow taller in which case you are able to cut the stalks.
Other tips for being a plant parent:
- Purchase a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer
- Purchase a humidifier for the dry winter months
- Only water plants with room temp water. Cold can shock the roots and letting the water sit will remove some of the Chlorine & other chemicals found in tap water.
References: http://time.com/5105027/indoor-plants-air-quality/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4419447/ http://time.com/4881665/green-spaces-nature-happiness/ https://www.houseplant411.com/houseplant/dracaena-janet-craig-plant-how-to-grow-care-for-dracaena-plant https://plantcaretoday.com/dracaena-janet-craig.html https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/chinese-evergreen.html https://garden.org/plants/view/111760/Silver-Lace-Fern-Pteris-ensiformis-Evergemiensis/ https://www.hunker.com/13427197/how-to-care-for-a-silver-lace-fern
