The best plants to use indoors are hardy, versatile and do not require regular watering. In this infographic, we give you a rundown of the top plants to use in the home. Choose plants based on room size, light exposure, and the amount of care you are willing to provide. The best plants to use indoors are hardy, versatile and do not require regular watering. In this infographic, we give you a rundown of the top plants to use in the home.
Choose plants based on room size, light exposure, and the amount of care you are willing to provide. Note that some plants are poisonous or have poisonous aspects so avoid selecting these options if you have children or pets.
The best plants for indoor include:
- Peace Lilies
- Boston Ferns
- Cast Iron Plants
- Dracaena
- Zanzibar Gem
- Fig
- Ponytail Palm
- Devil’s Ivy
- Mother-In-Law’s Tongue
House plants create harmony by breaking down the barriers between the inside and the outside world and can create stunning visual statements in every style of home. An easy way to bring any space to life is to use striking pots, large tropical leaves, beautiful flowers, and plants with architectural shapes.
With such a wide choice of species you can grow indoors, there is the option to group interesting containers creatively or display plants individually to great effect.
Keep plants everywhere, from the kitchen and bathroom to living spaces, the bedroom, or a hallway.
The only thing limiting you is the available light and temperature, so choose a plant to suit the conditions.
THE HEALTHY CHOICE
Keeping house plants is more than just a decorating choice. Research has long shown that just a few plants in 200mm pots can significantly reduce indoor pollution.
Initially it was thought the leaves absorbed airborne contaminants, but it was found that microbes in the potting mix are the vital agents.
They munch on volatile organic compounds, which are found in household items like furniture, computers, new carpets and paint.
The symbiotic relationship between the mix and plants creates a bio-filter effect, so the more greenery you have indoors, the cleaner the air.
Other studies have found that in addition to reducing pollution, plants grown in the home have a range of psychological and aesthetic benefits, helping to create a more harmonious environment.
FEEDING HOUSE PLANTS
Plants in containers rely on us to keep them healthy. They need to be fed regularly when they are actively producing new growth, generally from spring to autumn.
Slow-release fertilisers are best, and the easiest feeding method is to apply a six-month controlled-release plant food in spring.
HELP YOUR PLANTS THRIVE
The most common problem affecting indoor plants is overwatering. The amount of water a plant requires varies with the species, as well as the light, humidity, and temperature.
WATER needs are also linked to the growth cycle. A plant requires more during its active growth period in spring and summer, but less in winter.
To check if a plant needs watering, poke your finger into the top 10mm of potting mix to see if it’s dry.
LIGHT is important for plant health. Too much light is indicated by faded leaf colour, and wilting or scorched foliage. A plant not getting enough light loses leaves it can’t support and the plant leans towards the light.
AIR POLLUTION from gas may cause flowering plants to lose their buds and leaves to yellow and drop.
If the leaves are dusty, it’s hard for a plant to absorb carbon dioxide. Take it outside on a warm day and lightly hose it or sponge the leaves regularly.
