Garden Girl

Houseplants–what’s old is new again

Houseplants are experiencing a resurgence of popularity at the nursery.

Fiddle leaf figs, Chinese money plants, string of pearls, rubber plants, eternity plants, prayer plants and piggy back plants are all on trend this year.

Houseplants have become social media darlings, and their pics can regularly be appreciated on Instagram feeds and Pinterest searches. The houseplant trend has brought a younger group of garden lovers into the nursery with a new regard for indoor gardening.

As with any category of plants, folks want to know what they need to do to keep them alive. Indoor gardening is a new concept for many, and no one wants to make a mistake.

There are three important elements to consider when thinking of adding houseplants to your home: lighting, temperature and hydration.

Lighting is as important in the home as it is in the garden. Some plants need more light, while other tolerate less. Your houseplant growing success starts with finding the right location for your chosen plant.

Philodendrons love lots of bright light. Their large leaves will stretch out toward the brightness, so this will be the type of plant you’ll rotate to

balance the exposure the plant receives. Philodendrons are proud plants that look amazing elevated on a stand for a pronounced placement.

Rubber plants also need a bright spot in the home. This plant family has come a long way since Frank Sinatra sang about them in the ’40s. Now you can enjoy red leaves, nearly pink variegated leaves and cream and green variegated leaves.

The trailing pothos will thrive in medium light, as will Schefflera, commonly called dwarf umbrella trees. For those looking for a plant to enjoy in low light, you can’t beat a peace lily or snake plant. Both houseplants are easy to grow and tolerant of low to medium sun exposure.

Houseplant watering is critical. Too much water and your houseplants will rot; too little and leaves can show stress patches and

defoliation. Home temperature can also play a large part in your houseplant’s success. Many houseplants like a home kept in the comfortable 60s during the winter. Keep your eye on houseplants that might be exposed to cool drafts or are near large windows when outdoor temperatures are cold.

Fiddle leaf fig plants are members of the ficus family. They have a large rounded leaf with heavy veining. Fiddle leaf fig plants will grow like small trees and can be pruned in the spring to control height. This popular houseplant will defoliate toward the bottom, exposing its trunks. Large specimens are very desirable but expensive. Fiddle leaf figs like medium to high light and weekly watering.

Chinese money plants are very cute and easy to grow. Their pancake-shaped leaves are held by tiny

stems. As this plant grows, it resembles a fountain style party centerpiece. The money plant is sought after and makes a great gift for any houseplant lover.

The string of pearls plant is a succulent that will grow both indoors and out. Its tiny, pearl-shaped leaves perfectly line fragile stems. String of pearls cascades and looks fresh in a small container on an end table or positioned on a shelf.

Houseplants add life and color to a home. If you have a corner that you don’t know how to accessorize, consider a houseplant this year.

Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio, Gifts and Garden. Email questions or comments to Gardengirl@claytonpioneer.com

The Peace Lily loves low light, but won’t bloom in complete darkness.