Maria Reed has not always been an avid gardener, in fact, just 12 months ago, she was a complete indoor plant novice!
Maria confesses that her real love affair with plants only began when the desire to decorate her new home with plants finally outweighed her fear of failure. “I had tried to grow a few indoor plants before and they always died,” says Maria. “I called myself the ‘Black Thumb’ — give me any plant and I would kill it.” But a simple housewarming gift from a close friend changed all that.
“I was dubious when I was given a potted Bromeliad, but I followed the directions and it seemed to do well. I was really enjoying it as part of our routine so I thought I might try another. This did well too so it grew to another, and another.
STRING OF PEARLS, VARIEGATED CREEPING FIG AND VARIEGATED RUBBER PLANT
“I now have over 60 plants spread throughout our home and I love them!” says Maria. “I feel very responsible for them. They are like extended members of the family. It can be a lot of work in the summer, but it is worth it. My home feels like a living terrarium. The plants not only decorate the inside, but they create a positive energy that feels happy and calm. I think the air is better too!”
MONSTERA DELICIOSA, FIDDLE LEAF FIG & WHITE BIRD OF PARADISE
Easier than you think
Having recently completed their new family home in Kilcunda, Victoria, which she shares with husband Warren, daughter Patika and dogs Barney and Nikita, Maria attributes much of her new-found gardening success to the very bright and airy design of their home.
“I don’t water regularly, like every Monday. Instead, I touch the soil and if it is dry to the touch, it’s time to water. In winter it’s usually every fortnight.
In the summer, I give them a three-hour soak in our outdoor bath and then let them drain for a couple of hours before bringing them back inside,” she says. “And if one looks to be struggling, I give it some liquid seaweed solution and I also refer back to the label (which I keep in a folder) to check its preferred growing conditions.”
Pots of character
Each plant is an individual and Maria says she has a whole new appreciation of their individual colours, shapes, textures and size. “I’ll often find a little gem hiding in a mass of plants that I would have overlooked years ago,” she jokes.
“Now I see them as individuals that take on a whole new persona when you find their right spot.” Maria admits that the pot is almost as important as the plant itself when it comes to decorating your home. She experiments with different pot shapes, colours and sizes to find the perfect match for each plant.
“They always come in the ugliest pot, so the first step is finding that plant's character,” she says. “I know this will sound corny, but it really is like playing dress-ups, where you can give that plant any character you want. It’s like a complete plant makeover, and your whole home benefits.
“If I can grow indoor plants, I know anyone can do it,” adds Maria. “And when you become attuned to your plants, it’s easy to find the right position, and give them the conditions they need to thrive.”
Caring for your indoor plants
All plants have the same basic requirements, and these need to be met if they are to grow. Plants suitable for growing indoors are selected because of their ability to tolerate lower light levels and still thrive. Most shade plants are suitable, but you'll need to find their perfect position in your home.
The main things to consider are:
Light
You may know where you want to put a certain plant, but it may not like that spot. Each has its own light criteria that must be met, so if at first you don't succeed, try it in a different position (more light, less light, etc.). Remember, a north-facing window can amplify the sun and burn plants — so while it's lovely and light, it could be a solar tunnel for disaster!
Water
Don't kill them with kindness. It's tempting to give them a splash of water whenever you admire them, but this can lead to rot. Test the potting mix with your finger and, when it is dry, give them a drink, then allow the soil to become dry to the touch again before watering. Most plants will let you know when they are thirsty.
Humidity
Artificial heating and cooling can play havoc with indoor plants, removing moisture from the air. Get a spray bottle and mist the leaves of lush foliage plants a couple of times a week to improve humidity. Do not position in line with a heater or air-conditioner.
Dust
Wipe the leaves of plants with a damp soft cloth to prevent dust clogging the pores. It will not only help their leaves to function, but it will also keep them looking great all year round.
