If truth be told, I’m a little scared of house plants. I think it’s the commitment required. Plants often come with a sizable price tag, they need caring for, and there’s always the possibility that they’ll become too big or just start dropping leaves. It can also be hard to choose a plant that fits your style and that you won’t tire of. But, if you can handle all that, they’re worth it. Not only do plants bring a beautiful sculptural element into your space, but it is said they remove toxins, reduce noise and alleviate stress too. What’s not to love?
So, for other plant-phobes out there, here are three easy ways to introduce stylish greenery into your home.
1. The plant of designers: the fiddle-leaf fig
I haven’t done the research, but I bet that if you leafed (sorry) through the past five years of Elle Decor, the most frequently-sighted plant would be a fiddle-leaf fig. It’s a clear favorite with interior designers because of its sculptural qualities. With large glossy leaves, it works in modern and classic schemes, as well as those with an artistic or global vibe. It always makes a statement.. (Photos 1 and 2 above by William Waldron via Elle Decor; photo 3 via RDuJour)
2. Splendid succulents
Via Haus Design. Anyone can grow a succulent. Well, anyone that doesn’t live in Alaska that is. I was converted into a fan of succulents after planting a few in terracotta pots in our garden – and watching them develop into interesting shapes and colors throughout the year (with barely any effort from me). Indoors, they make striking table centers, windowsill arrangements or even wall decor. They’re fun for kids to look after too.
The table setting above is actually from a wedding. If you are still unconvinced about the beauty of succulents, take a look at the photos of this stunning event, via photographer Stephanie Williams’ site. You won’t be disappointed. As a taster, look: succulents even make gorgeous bouquets and hair adornments!
3. If in doubt, arrange some leafy branches
Via Bromeliad. I’m sure my third tip will be met with derision as it’s not technically about plants. But, if you crave some greenery and are strictly low-commitment, an arrangement of leaves and branches is a great option. Much more modern and effortless than a floral display, these bursts of greenery can really inject life into a scheme.
Via Canadian House and Home. Whether in a contemporary or traditional setting, a simple glass vase with a branch of bright green leaves is an easy way to add energy, height and interest.
Any other tips for those of us without green thumbs?
I’d love a fiddleleaf fig, but I have sneaking suspicion it wouldn’t be happy in my house and would drop all of it’s leaves! The easiest and most wonderful suggestion you made is the branches. If one has access to a tree or even a homely bush, a few snips of it look fantastic inside. And no need to worry about killing a branch since it will die eventually anyway.
I’ve been shocked how long my cuttings from the Japanese Elm in my backyard stay alive in a vase of water.
Camille
I had this lovely epiphany about plants. After years of labeling myself as a “black thumb” and avoiding houseplants as a result, I moved into a home with a very green backyard. I planted a variety of things, some of which made it, some of which didn’t. It was then that I realized all plants die eventually and I decided to get relaxed about the whole thing. I started buying houseplants which have lasted about 4-5 months. I have to admit I live in a budget friendly area for plants, but if you add up what you spend on flowers versus a houseplant, the plants still make sense. I enjoy the heck out of them while they are here, and am learning about what it takes to care for them. One thing I learned recently is that it is important to check very carefully for signs of disease when purchasing plants. I had sort of blithely thought if a plant was in a store it would be healthy, but after attempting to treat two mildewy infestations, next time I purchased, I clearly saw the disease starting on plants in the store and steered clear. I suspect that all these green thumb people I have envied went through a similar learning curve.
I have had some good luck drying cut flowers, especially roses and yarrow. Remove most of the leaves, have stems at least 6 inches long, bundle with rubber bands and hang upside down from a hook or hanger in a fairly dark area for about 2 to 3 weeks. Most of mine lose their brightness and take on a lovely antiquey look and last for a long time in your favorite vase. Some people spray them with hair spray apparantly to make them last longer.
Thanks for the shoutout. As you know, I’m a fan of branches stuck in a vase.
Using branches is a great idea, especially if like me you only have to look at an indoor plant to have the leaves fall off! Branches with bog blooms like lilac look lovely.