Distinctive Houseplants 1/22/09

By Pamela Nobles

If you want to add depth to any empty space in your home, then purchase a houseplant that best suits your personality. I’m sure you’ve heard the statement, "I don’t have a green thumb"! That’s ludicrous; anyone can do anything they set their heart to. With a little guidance and instruction choosing a plant to accentuate your home will be exciting and rewarding to say the least. You’ll be fascinated with the many varieties available that will brighten and enhance any room of your home…. So let’s get started.
The possibilities are endless. Choosing a plant that is conducive to the climate where it will be displayed is imperative to its livelihood. For instance displaying one or several on a windowsill in your kitchen or in a bathroom where there is high humidity with bright light, your choice might be any of the following; Peperomia, Ferns, Ivy Hedera helix (different varieties), Fittonia, Hypoestes, or Ficus. Any one of these plants would also be appropriate, with some misting to add humidity, on coffee tables, end tables, dressers or maybe on your dining room table. Consider a floor plant in any room of your home. I would suggest Split-leaf Philodendrons, Ferns, Dieffenbachia, Crotons, Palms or a Norfolk Island Pine. Let’s not leave out herbs, as they can thrive where there is bright light, even when it’s artificial light.
The houseplants mentioned above do require some attention, with little care and watering on a weekly basis. Plants purchased from area nurseries have been fertilized in green houses so they will not need to be fertilized for several months.
If you may have failed in the past, this is a new day, so look beyond the commonplace. Step out and let plants become a stimulating hobby that is sure to become a pleasure.
It would be an honor for me to help you make the right choices, so feel free to call me at 592-2522. Till next time, Grace and Peace be multiplied to you, Pamela.
Tip of the week: Camellias are in full bloom! Cut a stem or two for that special nook where you can enjoy their beauty much longer. Ask a kind neighbor for a cutting if you don’t have one in your yard.