“Green” has long been a part of my interior design. I have grown probably hundreds of different varieties of tropicals and houseplants, from African violets to zebra plants. Exotics such as orchids and bonsai also make up a part of my current collection. It makes me sad when I hear people say they have a brown thumb, so I’ll share some tips to help turn that thumb green as well as fun and practical uses for plants in your home or office.

Not Just a Pretty Face

Besides their beauty and the wonderful living energy plants bring to a space, there are practical reasons for including plants in your decor. Beyond the quantifiable benefits, there are advantages to growing plants that are purely intangible and psychological. The presence of healthy plants in your home or office actually has been shown to lift the mood and spirits of the occupants. Houseplants brighten every room with their rich color and vitality. They have been shown to reduce stress, produce a sense of calm, and are thought to promote creativity.

Plants are beautiful, but they are not just a pretty face; they are actually workhorses for the improvement of indoor air quality. Plants continually remove pollutants such as ammonia, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and benzene. They further promote well-being by continuously absorbing carbon dioxide and emitting oxygen. The direct health benefits are significant, especially in the winter when the air is dry. Plants increase humidity through transpiration and remove dust, thereby reducing the incidence of coughs, colds, sore throats, and related illnesses. Plants need to be kept in premium condition to be pleasing aesthetically and to effectively contribute the benefits described.

Creative Indoor Gardening

Healthy houseplants transform every space, but with some planning they can fulfill specific purposes in your interior design. Their strategic placement can create a needed focal point, draw the eye to a certain location, or add a pleasing color-coordinated accent. Houseplants can be used to produce a specific theme or mood: a relaxing, peaceful setting; a natural feeling perhaps blending with a view outdoors; or a reminder of a tropical vacation paradise.

For planning purposes, consider that plants either contrast with or blend into the surrounding walls and surface colors. Each scheme produces a different mood and effect. A tranquil feeling is achieved through use of a monochromatic or analogous color scheme, where walls/surfaces and foliage color are similar or close to one another on the color wheel. Contrasting colors, especially bold combinations such as complementary colors, produce outstanding results. These striking effects are further enhanced by choosing dramatic plants such as those with spiky, elongated or variegated foliage. Lighting and shadows can enhance and multiple the drama.

Plants look stunning when arranged in mixed groups, achieving lovely contrasts of color, form and texture. Groupings of like or contrasting plants can also be used to create screening and privacy.

Fabulous contemporary and architectural statements can be produced when multiples of the same plant are grouped in an array or geometric display. Multiples can either be planted together in a single, perhaps rectangular container, or they can be in separate matching or complementary planters. Hanging planters take advantage of the vertical spatial element if floor space is limited. For all of your plantings, containers play a key role in the design.

Blooming Flora

In my travels through Europe, it seems that floral arrangements and fresh flowers play a much bigger role in design than they do here. Flower markets are commonly seen and actively shopped. Perhaps space for plants is at a premium, and fresh flowers bring in nature in just the right way. Being disposable may also be a plus. Back in our corner of the world, it’s exciting to me to see the advent of locally grown flowers in our seasonal farmers markets. I find that flowers are some of the first items to go on market day. Professionally designed floral arrangements are always lovely, but why not try your hand at floral design? Styles vary widely and include traditional, cottage looks, Asian inspired designs such as Ikebana, as well as contemporary combinations.

Because of their beauty and exotic nature, orchids always create an inspiring floral focal point. The colors and types are so varied that an orchid can be found to complement almost any setting. They are now more affordable than ever, and some cultivars are not so fussy about care.

Plant Care

Providing the environment that matches the conditions preferred by a specific plant goes a long way to keeping it looking tip-top. By following some particular practices, plants can be maintained with minimal care. Here are the basics:

• Learn the likes and dislikes of each plant.

• Locate the plant in an area that gives it favorable lighting, or rotate it to the light frequently.

• Use deep saucers filled to the top with stone pebbles. As you water the plant, the excess then has a place to collect. A plant sitting in water is probably the single most common cause of plant demise because it rots the roots. If you’re using a basket or other container where the saucer is not visible, remove the plant frequently to monitor the water level in the saucer. Overflow will damage your floor.

• Locate plants out of the direct path of air vents or cold drafts. Vents are frequently located below or above windows, the same place your plant wants to live. Inexpensive deflectors can direct air flow away from the plant.

• For most plants, water when the surface of the soil starts to dry. The adage “not too wet, not too dry” is probably the single most significant piece of advice. Water thoroughly so that water flows through the entire pot and out the bottom.

• Repot when needed and only move up one size container. Houseplants want to be relatively pot-bound. Take note of your watering frequency for a particular plant. It’s a good clue for repotting needs.

• Use a premium soilless potting mixture that is loose and friable. I use “ProMix” for most houseplants. Add bone meal and “Rich Earth” to promote strong root growth.

• Fertilize in the warm season except as particular plants like it. Orchids, for instance, are heavy feeders. If using an inorganic fertilizer, i.e. anything “blue,” the soil should be moist prior to feeding to prevent root burn.

• Move them outside to a shady location during the summer. Your house may look a little bare, but they will reward you with renewed vigor. Tie up any large trees to prevent them from falling on a windy day and water frequently.

• Prune for vigor and health.

NOTE: There are a few houseplants that are toxic or mildly toxic if ingested or may irritate skin. Inquire at the nursery if you have a concern. Always keep supplies out of reach.
Enjoy your plants! Beautiful flora makes a lasting impression.

Vicki O’Neal, owner of FORM & FUNCTION, provides commercial and residential interior and landscape design. She is a professional member of ASID, VA Certified Interior Designer (CID), Master Gardener, and a VA Certified Landscape Designer and Horticulturist. The material contained in articles written by Vicki O’Neal is intended for general information only. 804.897.8558. www.form-and-function.us.