The art of taking care of your indoor plants
Spending more time indoor amid extended lockdown and expanding workfrom-home culture has motivated many to bring nature indoors. Experts believe plants not only beautify our home but also add a clam, soothing vibe.
However, nurturing plants in indoor setting comes with its own set of dos and don’ts and needs right environment.
“Their space is expected to have particular room conditions such as optimal moisture, favourable air flow, among others. Plants like air plants strike down the indoor clutter with no-soil base and polychromatic aesthetics,” says interior designer Punam Kalra.
It is also important to expose them to sunlight, at least once a week. “Keep your pot soil moist, not wet. Also cutting off the edges of the plant is necessary in order to grow new one,” says decor expert Praveen Rao.
Moreover, a lot of leftovers at home can act as manure for plants. “Used coffee grounds are perfect manure for houseplants like ferns. It gives plants an acidic boost and keeps pests away. The water you throw away after cooking pasta or potatoes have nutrients that plants would love,” notes decor expert Mansi Dalal.
Even plant food could help much in their growth. “Plant food is like a fertilizer for your indoor plants… Majority of houseplants should be fed every 10-14 days during the growing season,” says interior expert Shreya Jain Bhartia.
Cliché plants such as the spider plant and cactus improve the appeal of the indoors with a contemporary touch. “Plants such as burgundy rubber tree, weeping fig, bamboo palm etc. heighten the oxygen flow in the space, leaving a trace of refreshment. Bedrooms having plants such as peace lily enjoy an appreciable oxygen boost,” asserts Kalra.