Category: Indoor Plants

12 more must-have hospitable houseplants!

4/4/2017

Christmas cactus

Today, I'm back on my plant platform. What can I say? I need plants. You need plants. Where you live plays a big roll in how soon you can grow outdoors (where are you from by the way...)? We have long and bleak winters here in Buffalo, NY. Holiday decor from Hobby Lobby does help but only up to a point. And I've read over and over again how working with plants increases positive mood, self-esteem, feeling of calm and optimism, and gives a sense of stability. Sounds a lot cheaper than therapy to me. Just like having a cat, NASA studies have indicated that plant people have tested for lower blood pressure and heart rate. Not too shabby. So if you missed part I of my must-have plant series, you'll want to start here. Otherwise, keep reading to learn what other plants you need to get your hands on soon to boost your morale!

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13 eye-popping houseplants with hoopla!

2/24/2017

Kalanchoe (succulent)

Have you heard? Houseplants are seriously trending for 2017. Savvy interior designers are all giving houseplants two thumbs up this year. But what kind? Which types will actually survive and thrive in your space? We don't have time for fussy plants and neither do you. So today we're giving you the plant rundown to help you reap what you sow. Some listed here are labelled as toxic to humans and/or pets. You'll have to weigh the benefits over possible side effects and do what's best for you. Neither one of my children nor pets have ever munched on my snake plant. Or wanted to for that matter. Play-doh yes. Dog food yes. Snake plant no. So for me the risks are very low. Even my cat never caved into temptation. And c'mon. The Christmas decor has come down and your house is starting to look a little bleak. It needs to be cheered up. The benefits of plants are quite numerous ranging from filtering and freshening the air to relieving stress...not to mention the aesthetic aspect of having living green art in your space. Hooray for houseplants. Here's 13 you don't want to miss out on!

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Indoor plant survival guide (let's stop killing our plants!)

1/30/2017

Orchids and cacti happily growing on a windowsill.

We've all killed plants. Especially during the winter. We take our houseplants out in May and bring them back indoors when fall hits, but by November many are dead. Why is this I ask myself? Light and water issues. Although I want to blame pests, insects and diseases; I'm at the root of the problem! I'm still sad over a Mandevilla plant that I bought back from down South only to kill. We can't afford to fly to Florida and so we drive. This allows me to bring back tropical plants. They cost a fraction there of what I'd pay locally in Buffalo, NY. Then I get busy and those plants tend to bite the dust for lack of water. Pathetic Laura! So I've also learned over the years to keep it simple. Know the plants' needs and meet them. Now let's talk about houseplants, how-to water them, the light they need and that last under-discussed factor.....drum roll please.....humidity. Let's kill fewer plants starting today!

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5 plants to put you to sleep & help you beat insomnia

1/16/2017

I don't sleep. Much. Ever since having a baby 7 years ago and being forced out of bed 5-6 times a night to nurse...my body revolted against rest. Now that my daughter is older, I just get up that 5-6 times to pee. Makes me wonder. Does anyone out there actually get 8 hours of straight sleep at night? And I want a natural night's sleep. Agree? No meds. Did you know that incorporating just a few plants in your bedroom can put you out at night by creating a more restful environment? Just think how you feel after a good night's sleep. Like you can conquer the world. Right? But visa versa? Uh-huh...you're tossing and turning unable to catch any zzz's with that racing mind. All you can think about is everything you didn't get done the previous day. Awful. Then you wake up miserable and cranky unable to face the day! Well we have five plants to try today to help you gain a a more natural night's sleep. Here's the rundown!

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Growing fragrant paperwhites indoors

3/3/2016

It's a good time to "force" your paperwhites. That is, time to plant these stunning bulbs in an indoor pot. Paperwhites planted in small vases make the best shower or wedding party favors. This project is easy and inexpensive to do. Fragrant paperwhites just need to be potted and watered. That's it! Have an elderly aunt, grandma or even a sick friend? Ever need a hostess gift? Perfect. Tall, elegant, and striking in appearance they will be appreciated. And the fragrance? Mind-blowing. So let's enjoy a few blooms before our outdoor spring flowers blossom.

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The Secrets of Succulents

2/12/2015

Succulents are for the fleshpots. Lush, stiff and spiny or smooth and sleek, some succulents are even furry! Like people, succulents come in a myriad of colors, shapes and sizes. It's no wonder succulents are like your own family, and a surprising number of plant families are represented among them. Let me tell you how.

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12 more must-have hospitable houseplants!

13 eye-popping houseplants with hoopla!

Indoor plant survival guide (let's stop killing our plants!)

5 plants to put you to sleep & help you beat insomnia

Growing fragrant paperwhites indoors

The Secrets of Succulents

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