Whether we ever thought about it or not, plants, trees, shrubs – flowering or non-flowering – all have a soothing effect on us.
Image source – purenutrient
And not just in gardens, playgrounds and big spaces, even those small potted ones are known to:
- Reduce carbon dioxide levels
- Increase humidity/moisture
- Reduce levels of certain harmful chemicals
- Reduce airborne dust levels
- Keep temperature down
- Absorb background noise
- Bring stress levels down
- Fight the modern-age phenomenon of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)
- Decrease risk of many disorders and diseases
And the list is endless. Wondering how can you grow your own green sanctuary while staying in a flat? You don’t need to be a farmer to reap the benefits of indoor plants. All you need is a bit of sunshine, a bit extra time every few days and you are good-to-go. Add a bit of creativity to your kitchen, bedroom and even bathroom to enhance your living space.
Image source – brit
Here are few places where you can grow indoor (as well as outdoor) plants:
- Stack flower pots in an old shelf
- Stack fruit crates together (these can be put on the wall too)
- Reuse old coloured bottles or get them for minimal rates from your local junk dealer
- Mason jars can hold small flowering plants (you are surely going to love this idea)
- A cinderblock can hold bigger plants
- Hang your plants in decorative macrame
- Old water cans, tins, etc., offer a rustic look
- Stack a smaller pot in half filled bigger pot. Blooming floral creepers in this setting will surely brighten up that corner.
- Place few pots on a tray to make a portable garden
- Old buckets are great for plants that need more space
Image source – goodhousekeeping
Herbs, microgreens, garlic, tomatoes, lemons, salad greens and even carrots can be grown indoors. There’s a huge list of plants that are low-maintenance, do not require much sunlight and at the same time revive the air in your room. Bonsai is also a nice way to jazz up homes. What else can you ask for?
But while you plan to make a small garden for yourself, keep these points in consideration:
- Few plants need a bigger space as they grow. Plan the setting accordingly.
- Stone/terracotta pots look great but are difficult to move
- Wooden containers look beautiful but lend a foul smell too. Make sure they are not placed in a closed room.
- Ensure to make drain holes in all the pots
- Soil used should be disease free
- Use organic manure (look for options from your kitchen waste)
- Place plastic saucers under the pot to prevent water and soil spillage
- April, May and June are the best months for planting new saplings
- Ensure that plants are not overexposed to sunlight
- Keep the soil moist, water the plants twice if need be
Image source – sharespace
With this complete guide when are you creating a green heaven for your home and office?