Growing tropical plants in non-tropical environments can be tricky. Over the last year I have experimented with growing plants indoors, and have discovered how well it works with a little help from grow lights.
As a former Miamian living in North Carolina, one of the biggest adjustments has been the climate. Growing up in the tropical plant industry, and in the emersion of the subtropics, there is one thing I can’t live without: My tropical plants. But, when you move to a region to finally experience some seasons, you have to make sacrifices right? Not necessarily. Thanks to a simple grow light (or 20) you can create your own indoor oasis just like I did.
Philodendron gloriousum (left) Anthurium veitchii (right)
Anthurium hybrid
Why We Love House Plants
They add life (literally) to your space
Having a living thing to nurture and take care of adds a level of comfort to the home. Plants also create oxygen and make your air cleaner to breathe by clearing out impurities.
They create beautiful design accents
Plants are a beautiful way to decorate. The type of plant you add to a space can change the feeling completely, so it’s a great way to convey a specific feeling in your space.
They keep us connected to the Earth
In our modern world it’s easy to forget we are animals who are just a part of this planet. Having plants in the home helps me feel more grounded and spiritual, and reminds me we are all connected.
Orchid phalaenopsis
Where To Begin
Spring is officially here! Now is the time to visit your local garden centers, there are so many in the triangle and they are buzzing during the spring. This is the time when you will be able to find your house plants. Otherwise, you can order from online nursery’s who ship all over the country all year round.
The Process (Please note this is all based on my personal experience)
1.
Get your plants
If you’re at a garden center, anything in a greenhouse is ideal. Greenhouses provide a filtered light for your plants, and that’s the perfect condition for a houseplant under a grow light.
2.
Order your grow lighs
I recommend a few different ones depending on the size of your plants and the space you’re putting them in.
3.
Re-pot them into clay pots
These are great for houseplants, since they hold moisture, and they prevent overwatering because they breathe. Don’t forget a saucer!
You will probably need to buy soil. A great one I recommend is Miracle Gro Potting Soil, as it also has fertilizer mixed in.
4.
Consider adding stools or benches.
This not only highlights them visually, but it provides a flat, secure spot for your plants. This is especially important on areas with carpeting.
5.
Water when needed
After you have your plants set up with lights and any other accessories, it’s time for maintenance.
Depending on the plant, and the time of year, watering will occur at different times. Even if the plants are indoors, they can still be effected by the sun and length of daylight hours, especially if they are placed in front of windows.
Another consideration is indoor heating. This dries the plants out substantially, so make sure you’re checking them every couple days. You may have to water them more often in the winter months.
Consider a water spray bottle. These are great for plants that prefer more humidity. Every week or so, give them a spritz!
Care Tip 1:
It’s best to underwater then overwater your plants. So checking them often is important. Wait until they are completely dried out, then water them right away!
Care Tip 2:
Wooden skewers are a great tool for checking the soil for moisture. Similar to baking a cake and checking with a toothpick, stick the skewers all the way down through the soil to the base of the pot, and only water when it comes back up dry.
Philodendron atabapoense
Alocasia sp.
The key is to not be intimidated!
Caring for plants is more of a feeling than a system. Just go for it! The more you spend time with your plants, the more you will sense what their needs are. Trust me, you’ll love the way your house feels once you add some live greenery!
What do you think about house plants?
Dara Tannenbaum Realtor®
Email: [email protected] | Instagram: @daratannenbaum | Website: daratannenbaum.allentate.com
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