Since 2012, many houseplant aficionados have had a reason to celebrate National Houseplant Appreciation Day. Consider this an official holiday for those who appreciate indoor plants. The Gardener’s Network recognized the popularity of houseplants and the joy they provide to plant lovers everywhere. January 10th is certainly a day that arrives when we need it most.
Some people lack confidence in selecting the right plant for their lifestyle. Busy, non-stop days require plants that need minimal care. Every houseplant has basic needs from proper lighting, temperature, proper type of soil, fertilizer, and water. Proper Researching the essential needs of any plant is crucial for plant parent success. It is also important to identify why you want to have plans in your home.
Are you seeking plants to decorate your home, add a focal point, or clean the air? Would selecting an exotic plant fill a void or provide something to talk to, love, and care for? Do you need only one (unheard of) or would a diverse cluster of plants with varied textures, heights, or leaves add artistic flair to your home? Consider these questions when inviting a houseplant to live with you.
I asked Samantha Speight, REWILD Marketing Manager/Cabin John, why we should appreciate houseplants. “Houseplants connect us not only to nature but to our community. They serve as a reminder that with patience comes beautiful growth.” This rings true and is quite a wise statement. Patience is essential when one desires healthy houseplants.
Why should people consider celebrating National Houseplant Appreciation Day at REWILD? “We have a diverse selection of houseplants for all skill levels,” Samantha stated confidently, “We also offer workshops, a variety of plant services, and a team that is passionate, and knowledgeable about houseplants.”
A good houseplant shop has items for good plant parenting such as soil, tools, fertilizers, and more. Cultivating a relationship with a knowledgeable staff is also important. It helps when you have a resource to answer questions such as, “Why are my Monstera leaves turning brown?” or “How do I water my Bromeliad?”
Remember the seventies? Many plants that were as popular as disco, are even more popular today. How many people had at least one Snakeplant, Peace Lily, or Pothos? My grandmother cherished these plants. She could tell you where they came from, what relative they represented, or if it was from a dish garden. These plants required repotting when they outgrew their confined spaces. Family members passed these down from generation to generation. Over time, the stories of these plants and their journey changed.
I have two 8-foot tall Dracenea that my Dad grew in the living room in my childhood home. Placed in front of the picture window, these plants provided a living privacy screen. My mom made sure they were healthy and tuned regularly for even growth. My Dad and I found joy when we took cuttings for propagation in the spring. Perhaps I will consider celebrating National Houseplant Appreciation Day by cleaning off the leaves and watering them deeply. At the right time, when they are actively growing, I will take cuttings and make more plants.
Consider adding a Peace Lilly, Spider plant, or Snake plant to purify the air in your home. Aloe vera plants are also great to have on hand for cuts or burns in the kitchen. They are also architecturally beautiful. Easy to care for, these are easy for beginning plant lovers to grow. Many believe the Jade plant attracts abundance and wealth. The Jade plant was always the perfect housewarming plant. Great for sharing, a cutting makes a great gift. This plant helps in promoting good air quality. There are many new cultivars of these plants, each offering leaf variegation and growth habits uniquely different than what we are familiar with.
Some people like blooms on their houseplants. I enjoy bodacious leaves. Monsteras have a special place in my heart and home. I love how my Monstera has taken over a corner of my living room. I recently cut it back from the top as it touched the ceiling. Placing it in a glass vase, I was curious to see what would happen. On a recent Sunday, I noticed roots emerging from the fresh-cut stem. I grinned from ear to ear. Sometimes the risks we take can bring us such joy.
When I wondered what plant made Samantha happy? “Alocasia Jacklyn is one of my favorite plants.” Samantha exclaimed, “The whole plant is a statement from leaf shape to texture. I also love the corm growth habits.” Something tells me this might be a plant I need for my collection.
One perfect way to celebrate National Houseplant Appreciation Day would be a visit to a caring, reputable houseplant shop such as REWILD. Samantha assured me “We are always ready to help find the perfect plant and pot combination.”
I think I will visit REWILD to look at their plants and accessories. Perhaps I can find something to enhance my plant story…like another Monstera.
Wiping down the leaves of Dad’s Dracena and considering where I will make cuts to propagate and share.
Teri, Cottage in the Court
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