Balance the Home with Indoor Gardening
Where does your garden grow?
Gardening brings us such joy in the Spring, Summer, and Fall. When the ground freezes and it is blanketed by a carpet of snow and ice, it is Winter telling us to take a break from the dirt.
But we don't have to listen…
Our homes are a fabulous environment for growing plants. There are so many great plants that can grow in low light and bright indoor light. Introducing plants into your home is also adding an essential component to our well-being…clean air!
Do not let the doldrums of cold, dreary days get you down. Adding a small indoor plant can lift your spirits, encouraging you to open the blinds and bring fresh light. The reward of having happy indoor plants is contagious; when your plants are happy, it will make you happy. An indoor plant's basic needs are light, water, good soil, and a suitable environment. Most indoor plants require only water once a week. One of the primary reasons an indoor plant may die is due to excessive watering.
One great trick I used frequently in our garden center was the ice cube method. It is excellent for smaller plants and plant containers with drainage holes. Place two ice cubes (approximately 1-1.5 inches in length) for every 4 inches of planter.
- 4-inch pot = 2 ice cubes
- 6-inch pot = 3 ice cubes
- 8-inch pot = 4 ice cubes
- Bigger than 8 inches, it's best to have a regular watering system.
The premise is that ice melts slowly, preventing root rot, while a standard ice cube provides a consistent measurement.
Plants love consistency. They love staying in one place and adjusting to the light. Sometimes, when you first purchase a plant and bring it home, it can drop some leaves or turn yellow. It's normal, but if the plant fails to recover or worsens, adjust the light and water accordingly. Indoor plant soil should not be too wet, nor too dry. When you touch the soil, it should feel like perfectly cooked pumpkin spice bread.
There are so many great ways to bring plants into the home; you can not go wrong. My go-to plant for anyone just starting is the Pothos Ivy. There are some great varieties available, and they are extremely easy to care for. Another one, that is a winner, is the ZZ plant. It can grow in low light with very little water. I'm still caring for our old office ZZ plants and only water them once a month, using the ice cube method. You will find, through your journey, that your plants become a staple in your life and an integral part of what truly balances your home.
The self-watering containers are a no-brainer when it comes to low maintenance. These are great for larger indoor plants, like tropicals or canes.
Campania International Caipirinha Planter Set of 3 in Volcanic Coral
Glazed ceramic planters are always a fun addition to decorate with; they can be placed both indoors and outdoors. Most of them have a drainage hole, so the ice cube method or even a cork tray will keep the floor tidy. For grouping multiple plants together or protecting high-traffic entryways, our decorative boot trays offer a stylish, waterproof barrier that catches every stray drop of water and bit of soil.
Campania International Farmer's Short Pot Set
For that kitchen and herb garden, grower pots are ideal. Made from breathable terra cotta, these planters make the right place to start seedlings, nurture spouts, and have the key cutting herbs.
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