Architectural Digest House Plants

Architectural Digest House Plants: Bringing the Outdoors In

### Introduction The beauty of nature can be brought inside your home with the addition of house plants. From lush ferns to vibrant succulents, there's a plant for every taste and style. Architectural Digest House Plants showcases some of the most stunning and unique house plants that will add life and personality to your living space. ### Types of House Plants

1. Ferns:

Ferns are a classic choice for house plants, and for good reason. They're easy to care for, and their delicate fronds add a touch of elegance to any room. Some popular fern varieties include Boston ferns, maidenhair ferns, and bird's nest ferns.

2. Succulents:

Succulents are a low-maintenance option for house plants. They're drought-tolerant, making them ideal for busy people or those who travel frequently. Some popular succulent varieties include aloe vera, echeveria, and sedum.

3. Cacti:

Cacti are another low-maintenance option for house plants. They're native to desert environments, so they're well-suited to dry conditions. Some popular cactus varieties include prickly pear cactus, barrel cactus, and saguaro cactus.

4. Air Plants:

Air plants are a unique type of house plant that don't need soil to grow. They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air, making them a great option for hanging baskets or terrariums. Some popular air plant varieties include tillandsia usneoides (Spanish moss), tillandsia ionantha (silver air plant), and tillandsia cyanea (pink quill air plant). ### Benefits of Having House Plants

1. Improved Air Quality:

House plants help to purify the air by removing toxins and pollutants. Studies have shown that house plants can reduce levels of benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene, all of which are known carcinogens.

2. Reduced Stress:

Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress. Bringing plants into your home can help to create a more relaxing and calming environment.

3. Increased Productivity:

Having plants in your workspace can help to increase productivity. Studies have shown that people who work in green spaces are more productive and have better concentration.

4. Improved Mood:

Plants can help to improve your mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that people who interact with plants have lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. ### Choosing the Right House Plant for You When choosing a house plant, there are a few things you need to consider:

1. Light:

Determine the amount of light your plant will receive in its intended location. Some plants need bright, direct sunlight, while others prefer indirect light or even shade.

2. Water:

Consider how often you're willing to water your plant. Some plants need to be watered frequently, while others can go for weeks without water.

3. Size:

Think about the size of the plant you want. Some plants can grow to be very large, while others stay relatively small.

4. Maintenance:

Some plants require more maintenance than others. You'll need to consider how much time you're willing to spend on pruning, repotting, and fertilizing your plant. ### Caring for Your House Plants Once you've chosen a house plant, it's important to provide proper care to keep it healthy and thriving. Here are some general tips for caring for your house plants:

1. Water:

Water your plant regularly, but don't overwater it. The best way to determine when to water your plant is to stick your finger in the soil. If the soil is dry up to your first knuckle, it's time to water.

2. Light:

Place your plant in a location that receives the right amount of light for its needs. If you're not sure how much light your plant needs, check the plant tag or do some research online.

3. Fertilize:

Fertilize your plant regularly during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer, and follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.

4. Repot:

Repot your plant when it starts to outgrow its pot. Use a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one.

5. Prune:

Prune your plant to keep it healthy and looking its best. Remove any dead or dying leaves, and trim back any stems that are getting too long. ### Conclusion House plants can add beauty, personality, and health benefits to your home. By choosing the right plants and providing proper care, you can enjoy your house plants for years to come.