Image: © Adria Goula
Indoor gardens have become a popular trend in home design, offering more than just aesthetic beauty. They can enhance your living space while providing numerous health and productivity benefits. Research shows that indoor plants help eliminate indoor air pollutants, increase concentration, and improve productivity. Additionally, they can even lower energy costs by reducing the need for air circulation. So, why not incorporate an indoor garden into your home? Here's how to get started.
Requirements
Light:
Plants need light to grow and thrive. However, indoor gardens may not receive adequate light, especially during the winter months. To ensure maximum growth, consider using High Intensity Discharge (HID) bulbs or Compact Fluorescent Systems, as regular light bulbs won't suffice. Remember, the light requirements will vary depending on the types of plants you choose.
Humidity:
Indoor gardens often suffer from low humidity, which can cause plants to wither. Increase the humidity by running a humidifier, misting your plants daily, or placing a tray of water nearby.
Temperature:
Most plants thrive in temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil depth:
The depth of soil required depends on the plants you choose. Typically, 18 to 20 inches of soil will suffice for most plants, but this may vary.
Water:
Proper watering is crucial for indoor gardens. Avoid overwatering or underwatering by using solutions like indoor drip watering systems, hydroponics, or self-watering pots. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Image: © Rafael Gamo
Common Plants
Different plants serve different purposes in home gardens. Depending on your preferences, consider the lighting, watering, and temperature needs of the plants. Here are some popular choices:
- Common House Plants: Spider Plant, Aloe Vera, Weeping Fig, Jade Plant.
- Common Vegetables: Beets, carrots, herbs, kale, lettuce, mushrooms.
- Flowers: Rose of China, Flamingo Flower, Kaffir Lily, various orchids.
Image: © Shinkenchiku Sha
Display Methods
There are various innovative garden designs that can complement your home's interior and make the most of the available space. Here are some popular display methods:
Raised Beds
Image: © Paul Sebesta
Vertical Gardens
Image: © BK
Tiered Planters
Image: Courtesy of TAA DESIGN
Separate Pots
Image: © Adria Goula
Walled, Elevated, and Sunken Gardens
Image: Courtesy of Ivan Priatman
With these tips and ideas in mind, you can create stunning indoor gardens that enhance the beauty and functionality of your home. Remember to assess the lighting, humidity, temperature, and watering needs of your plants to ensure their growth and wellbeing. So, embrace nature's beauty and bring a touch of green into your home with an indoor garden that will transform your living space.
Images: © Adria Goula, Rafael Gamo, Paul Sebesta, BK, TAA DESIGN, and Ivan Priatman
