Bring the outdoors inside with some indoor gardening

The right plant in the right spot

For an indoor plant, location is really important if it’s going to thrive. When choosing a spot, think about the light, temperature variation and whether it can withstand air conditioning. If you are in any doubt, your local garden centre will recommend a selection of plants that are able withstand your indoor growing conditions.

Acclimatising your new plants

Plants raised in nursery conditions need to be carefully monitored once they have been brought indoors. If your plant is not coping, let it acclimatise outside in complete shade for a while.

General care

Different plants have different water requirements, so read and keep the label that comes with your plant. Most like the soil to go slightly dry between watering (but this isn’t always the case). Fertilise with slow-release granules and take your plant outside occasionally to give the leaves a clean and inspect for pests such as scale and mealy bugs. Regularly wipe the dust off the leaves to keep them glossy and healthy.

Five great indoor plants

Mother-in-law’s Tongue (Sansevieria)

Mother-in-law’s Tongue/Snake Plant is suitable for most indoor positions and requires very little care. This is a good one to keep in your bedroom. It improves air quality while you sleep, converting carbon dioxide to oxygen. Be careful not to overwater.

Zanzibar Gem (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant has glossy green leaves, loves lowlight conditions and is hard to kill! It’s great if you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant as it only needs watering every couple of weeks.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)

This plant has shiny green leaves, white flowers and is very hardy. It needs very little light and is one of the best air purifying plants. Be careful not to overwater.

Umbrella Tree (Schefflera actinophylla)

The Umbrella Tree loves warm, humid conditions and can add impact to the corner of a room. It needs regular watering and fertilising to flourish.

Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)

With their delicate-looking foliage, these plants add softness and texture to a room. This fern needs to be kept moist so it’s a good idea to plant it in a self-watering pot.

‍

‍

‍