There’s a restorative element that nature brings which gives us comfort and the promise of new life.  Indoor plants provide similar benefits- healthier, cleaner air, closer proximity to nature, and studies show they help reduce stress and increase productivity,.  In honour of Earth week we would like to share some of our favourite plants, and tips and tricks to help your plants thrive so you can enjoy the benefits and visual beauty that plants bring to our homes.

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For the plant killers out there, here are some easy, low maintenance plants that almost anyone can keep alive.

 ZZ Plant

The Zamioculas zamifolia is one of the toughest indoor plants out there.  They are able to thrive in areas of both low and high light, but prefer no direct sun.  Their water requirements are minimal- water on average every 2-3 weeks, they prefer to dry out completely between watering and will not tolerate being overwatered. 

Tip: The general rule of thumb is to water less in the winter and more in the summer, as plants tend to be slower growing in winter.  ZZ’s also remove toxins from the air as they transpire more than most plants. The shape of the leaf and the broad stems make it a beautiful plant to add to any room.  

 Snake Plant

Also known as the Sansevieria or Mother’s tongue, this drought tolerant plant has upright foliage that gives it great architectural form that complements all styles of decor. There are different varietals with cream or gold coloured edges, or silver streaks. It can thrive in low light settings, and watering requirements are minimal- about once every 3-4 weeks.  The larger 12”-14” pots look great in groupings of three on the floor.

Style in Form

Now on to our favourite show stopper plants that we love to design with.

Fiddle Leaf Ficus

This chic tree type plant has the largest leaves of all in its genus.  It prefers bright, indirect light (southern exposure is ideal) and does not like to be moved, or be touched.  It shouldn’t be near any drafts, and likes to dry out between waterings.  Tip: Always rotate your plants each time you water them, so the branches don’t grow in one direction toward the light.  The fiddle leaf is a perfect decorative plant to use in a south facing room with high ceilings and windows.  

 Studio Lifestyle

Succulents

These popular plants are obsessed with warmth and sunlight, which are the two keys to succulent survival.  Tip: Succulents grow best outdoors so when the weather gets warm, move them outside in the sunlight for the summer and they will thrive.  It’s a common misconception that succulents don’t require much water.  They actually need to be watered enough for the leaves to soak in as much moisture as possible.  When the soil has completely dried out, it’s time to water.  Succulents look amazing planted in large groupings in concrete or ceramic pots- ensure they are planted with some room in-between so they can expand and grow.

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 Plant care Tools

 You only need a few things to maintain healthy, beautiful plants:

1. Tip: Moisture meter- an invaluable tool that will tell you exactly when your plants need water.  Place them in the soil and ensure the tip of the meter reaches down into the pot as far as possible. Plants often appear dry at the surface but are still moist deeper into the pot hence people tend to overwater. 
2. Plant fertilizer- a liquid fertilizer added to water can help feed your plants throughout the seasons.  Depending on the type of plant, use them about once a month to maintain nutrients to the plant.
3. A super cute watering can- with a long spout to get into the hard to water small spaces, and one that holds enough water so you’re not constantly running back to the sink to refill.