is green the new black?

I'm not talking food, fashion, social conscience or the environment here, I'm talking interiors. Indoor plants are back in vogue.

Plants in the home have trended on and off for many years dating back to the ancient Greeks. The Victorians loved their exotic plants, adorning their parlors with large palms and lets not forget the 70's - memories of maiden hair ferns in macrame hangers.

Victorian Parlor Palms

Macrame 1

Having plants in the home have proven benefits such as; helping to increase oxygen levels, and our bodies appreciate that; creating moisture in the air which can diminish dry skin, colds, sore throats and dry coughs; Studies have shown that plants can speed up recovery from illness or surgery; And in a working environment, improve concentration, memory and productivity.

All those positives aside, plants can be an effective, low cost decorative accessory. They can give a room a final touch, excuse the pun, a breath of fresh air. Don't be put off if you're not particularly green fingered, there are some pretty indestructible varieties available.

succulent-plant

Alocasia 2_edited

Try the Zamioculcas (known as the ZZ plant) - it thrives on neglect, needing water approx once a month! Alocasia, the good old orchid or succulents are hardy too.

Orchid white

Zamioculcas

Think about practical uses - handy plants in the kitchen, like this miniature bay leaf or herbs.

Plants Kitchen

IMG_6163_edited

Last but not least, as we inch toward summer, don't forget your outdoor living spaces. This is my latest project.