Count Down to Christmas, Make it Stress-Free with Plants

Getting ready for the holidays is often a chaotic and hectic time. But adding the holiday look and feel to your space doesn't have to be frustrating or time-consuming! You can use plants and other natural materials to make holiday decorating elegant and easy. From countertop accents to dining-table centerpieces and tree decorations, we've got you covered! Here's how you can make it stress-free with plants as you count down to Christmas.

Winter in Bloom

For stunning pops of color throughout your home, Christmas cacti are a great choice. These low-maintenance Brazilian natives are known for their exquisite blooms throughout December. Available in a variety of colors, placing these plants around your home will add a touch of nature all year round with a winter showcase in striking white, pink, red or purple blooms.

Another gorgeous holiday plant is the Amaryllis. This elegantly slender beauty features large multi-bloom stalks that will continue to bloom throughout the year. These large bulbs make a great gift for any occasion and can be used to create stunning showpieces for mantels or centerpieces for your holiday meal.

Paperwhites are brilliantly fragrant, tall plants with crisp, delicate, white blooms. These low-maintenance beauties can be enjoyed throughout the year by simply placing the bulb in a dish with stones or marbles and adding water.

Bringing the Outdoors In

Give your tree a gorgeous, elegant look doesn't have to be a huge undertaking. Make this year's decorating simple and stress-free by using terrarium bulbs. These clear glass bulbs can be filled with a variety of natural elements like moss, feathers, acorns, and so much more! Mark a major to-do off your list with this stress-free tree decorating tip so you have more time to enjoy spending time with family and friends this holiday season.

Always Poinsettias

When in doubt, one can never go wrong with adding the festive, vibrant blooms of Poinsettias. Call Alan at Interior Plants, Inc., 609-890-9304 for all your Holiday needs.

Embrace the Autumn Splendor with Glorious Mums

Fall mums are the perfect late-season blooms to embrace the glorious splendor of autumn. Featuring a wide array of stunning hues and blooms that last for weeks, it's easy to see why this stunning plant is one of the number one choices for fall foliage.

These exquisite blooms are a long-standing favorite among gardeners as the go-to choice for bridging the gap between the summer and fall growing seasons. But these blooms shouldn't be limited to just the garden and porch! Explore these creative ways to embrace the autumn splendor with glorious mums and find your inspiration this season.

Rustic and Chic

Nothing adds elegance to a table better than a well-designed centerpiece that pays homage to autumn's arrival. Create a gorgeously rustic and simple centerpiece by adding a touch of nature to the table. Your guests are sure to be wowed with this clever use of natural materials to showcase these gorgeous autumn blooms.

Simply gather a handful of twigs and trim them to match the height of your container. Stretch the rubber band around the container and secure the twigs. Cover the rubber band with a simple twine. For a stunning finish to this effortless centerpiece, add fresh cut mums in shades of creamy whites, rich golds, deep oranges, and vibrant plums to welcome the new season.

Effortless Elegance

Add an elevated level of elegance to any space with a variety of floral foam balls and fresh cut mums in three complementary colors. This also makes a great choice for other floral forms like wreaths. Soak the floral balls or shaped forms in water and trim the stems of your mums to ½ inch.

Closely pack each ball or floral form with a mixture of mums. Choose a container with the same, or slightly smaller, width as the floral balls to display your stunning autumnal creations. A regular spritz of water will keep your elegant autumnal displays vibrantly colorful for weeks.

Gorgeous Gourds

Gourds are synonymous with autumn, so why not create a dazzling display using tiny gourds and these gorgeous blooms? Create your masterpiece by hollowing out a collection of brightly colored miniature gourds and filling them with water. Add small bunches of deeply rich burgundy, gold, and cream-colored mums and nestle on a bed of autumn leaves or brilliantly green moss.

Interior Plants can create the perfect autumn plant display for you office or home. Call (609) 890-9304 or visit us or website www.interiorplantsinc.com.

What To Do For Your Indoor Plants As The Sunshine Goes South

As it gets later in the year and the sunshine gets shorter and the temperature gets colder, your indoor plants will need a little extra help to remain healthy. That's where we come in! Here's what you should know about what to do for your indoor plants as the sunshine goes south.

What to Do for Your Indoor Plants as the Sunshine Goes South

Of course, the colder temperatures, drier air, shorter days, and lack of light can distress your houseplant - or worse, kill it. However, there are a number of ways to combat these harsh conditions and help your indoor plants thrive during winter months.

Relocation

During winter, light levels near windows can drop by as much as 50%. This can present a challenge for your full-sun loving indoor plants. Houseplants that take residence in sunny eastern- or northern-facing windows during the summer may need to be relocated to a southern- or western-facing windows during colder months. In return, your plants that love the filtered light of a western- or southern-facing window during the summer should be able to tolerate the eastern- or northern-facing windows during the winter months.

Make sure windows are cleaned and dust is washed from plants to make use of every bit of sunlight. You can also choose to add artificial light to your plant care regime. Fluorescent bulbs can produce an adequate amount of light for your houseplants, without as much heat, and are more budget-friendly than traditional grow lights. Bulbs should be placed anywhere from 4-12 inches away from plants for maximum efficiency.

Tropical Environment

Most houseplants prefer to stay between 65-75°F during the day and no lower than 55°F overnight. For many houseplants, anything below 50°F and you may start to see signs of distress. Humidity can pose another challenge for your houseplants.

In general, indoor plants prefer to remain in 40-50% relative humidity, however, some homes may only maintain 5-10% humidity during winter months. In cases where humidity is a problem, distress signs may include brown tips on leaves and the presence of pests, like spider mites. Adding a humidifier to the room can help reduce watering needs during the season and help give your houseplants the moisture they need.

Careful Watering

Watering indoor plants during winter months can often present a challenge. In most cases, the problem is overwatering. Houseplants won't need nearly as much water during winter. Before watering, check a few inches below the surface of the soil to make sure it's dry. This is especially true for succulents.

It's best to move them to a sink or bath and run them under tap water and let it run through the soil and out of the bottom. Place the houseplant back in its saucer and be sure to remove any standing water throughout the day.

Food for Thought

During winter months, fertilizing can sometimes cause more harm than good. If this is an absolute must, fertilizer should be added in the fall. You should also dilute the mixture by at least half, if not more.

In addition, it's important to note that repotting your plants should ideally take place in spring. This change can be incredibly hard on plants so it's best to give them the best environment to recover.

Alan Brody of Interior Plants is an expert on plant care. If you are looking to change out and freshen your interior for the season or just want to maintain a green healthy environment for you and your plants. Check us out at www.interiorplantsinc.com or call (609) 890-9304.

Tips For Choosing The Best Container For Your Indoor Plants

When it comes to the beauty of indoor plants, nothing can quite compare. Typically most houseplants are sold in plastic standard pots and chances are, these generic pots aren't the best at blending in with existing decor. If you are like most houseplant lovers, it's likely you're considering replacing these pots. 

It's important to carefully choose replacement containers in order to provide your houseplants with the best environment for them to grow and thrive. Here are some helpful tips for choosing the best container for your indoor plants. 

Why Containers Make a Difference

In the most basic sense, the goal of a planting container is to provide the plant with just the right about of soil. Considering the vast amount of choices when it comes to replacement containers, it's easy to understand see how choosing the right container can be a little overwhelming for some. But why does the container you choose make such a difference?

Choosing a container that's too large or too small for your plant can create a number of problems. Plants will look out of place and disproportionate. Additionally, improper container sizes can create poor environments for growth and overall plant health.

Containers that are too large for their plant companions will hold more moisture in the soil than the plant actually needs. This can create plant health issues like root rot and eventual death of the plant. On the other hand, houseplants with containers that are too small can create issues like bound roots and stunted growth. 

Don't Forget Drainage

Before you make a final decision on which pot is best for your houseplant, it's important to consider the drainage. The best containers will have holes in the bottom of the pot to allow excess water to move away from the roots and base of the plant. Without any drainage, you face a much higher risk of over-watering. This is especially true for beginning growers who may not be as familiar with how much water is  too much. 

If you simply cannot find the recommended features in a pot that you can't live without, there is a solution! You can use the more practical container for actual planting and place this smaller pot inside of the larger, more decorative container. This will give your houseplant the drainage it needs while giving your home and plants the look that they deserve. 

For all your interior plant needs, contact Alan at  609-890-9304.

How To Grow And Care For Your Indoor Tree

Indoor trees can turn any space from cold and drab to warm and inviting. Adding trees to your indoor space is a great way to bring the outdoors in, bring a pop of color to your design, and benefit from the added health advantages of living
indoor trees. 

If the thought of caring for your indoor tree seems intimidating, you aren't alone. But, indoor tree care doesn't have to be a daunting task—in fact, it's easier than you think! We've created this helpful guide filled with invaluable indoor tree care
tips to help you make the most of your indoor space.

Planting
The first step to a healthy indoor tree is proper planting. It's important to choose a pot that is appropriately sized for your tree. As your tree grows, it will be necessary to replant in larger pots to accommodate the larger size. 

You'll also need to make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes. This will help prevent issues like overwatering the plant. It's also important to choose a high-quality soil to give your indoor tree the best environment to promote proper
drainage and growth. The soil should also be changed at least once a year. 

Some of the most popular indoor tree options include:
•    Fiddle Leaf Fig
•    Yucca
•    Parlor Palm
•    Corn Plant
•    Ficus
•    Rubber Tree
•    Fishtail Palm
•    Money Tree
•    And More!

Indoor Tree Care
Of course, the specific care for your indoor plant will greatly rely on the variety of plant you choose for your space. However, there are a few common guidelines that you can use to help with your indoor tree care routine. 

Indoor trees and plants will naturally acclimate to their environment. Proper placement is essential to healthy indoor trees. Constantly moving or relocating your plants can actually harm your plants and inhibit growth. 

Your indoor tree should be watered regularly. How often your tree should be watered will be determined by your specific plant's needs. Be sure to use room temperature water and avoid any foliage to prevent damage and potential disease. 

Your indoor tree should be inspected routinely for the presence of any pests or other signs of problems. This is a great opportunity to use a damp cloth to remove any dust from the foliage of your plant. This will encourage the photosynthesis
process and keeps your plant looking gorgeous! 

Magical Spring Gardens to Love Inside or Out

Spring is the most magical time for gardening enthusiasts around the world. This enchanting season is the time when flowering bulbs begin their stunning displays of color long before most other perennials begin to emerge. 

This season, emerging trends merely prove our continued love for all things beautiful and bright. Here's what you should know about how to incorporate flowing bulbs to create magical springs gardens you are sure to love! 

Small Space, Big Impact

Whether you're indoors or out, there are tons of ways to create a big impact in small spaces. Flowering bulbs can be used to create a stunning look both indoors and out! 

For those living in rental properties, or with minimal space outdoors, balcony gardening is a great option for creating magical gardens you're sure to love. Choose containers in a variety of shapes and sizes to give depth and texture to your space. 

There are a wide variety of flowing bulbs that can bring the colors and fragrances of early spring to your indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether planted in soil or in containers, these flowering bulbs are incredibly adaptable and can thrive in many different environments.  These include:
•    Daffodils
•    Amaryllis
•    Paperwhites
•    Hyacinths
•    Crocus
•    Tulips

Bulbs are also a great choice for your outdoor gardens too! By choosing bulbs that are good for naturalizing, you can count on gorgeous springtime blooms year after year. These bulbs bring stunning displays of color and fragrance in the spring and will naturally multiply and spread throughout your garden. 

To create a magical spring garden that you'll absolutely love, try including some of these flowing bulbs in your garden design:
•    Guinea Hen Flower
•    Striped Squill
•    Spanish Bluebells
•    Dog-Toothed Violet
•    Glory-of-the-Snow
•    Irises

Late spring and well into summer, try these unique bulbs to give that lush exotic look:
•    Caladiums
•    Elephant Ears
•    Canna Lilies
•    Calla Lilies
•    Nerine

Some of the top trends for 2018 include other gorgeous blossoming bulbs like Allium, Scilla, Ipheion, and Leucojum. These bulbs bring vibrant colors, the sweetest of fragrances, and stunning springtime blooms year after year.  Whether you have acres of land or beatifying your balcony with containers, flowering bulbs are a great choice to add dramatic color with minimal effort.   Creating magical spring gardens you'll love inside and out is easier than ever with these show stopping perennial flowering bulbs. 

If you would like to learn more, contact us at interiorplantsinc.com or (609) 890-9304.

Going Green without a Green Thumb

The look and feel of your office setting are just as important as other aspects of your business like productivity and quality level of services. It's important to create and maintain a warm and welcoming environment not only for your clients but for your employees as well.

Plants are a great way to go green and can instantly elevate the look and feel of any office space or commercial setting. No green thumb? No problem! Artificial plants provide the perfect solution for going green without a green thumb! 

Benefits of Artificial Plants for Your Office and Commercial Settings

It's important to note first understand that not all artificial flowers and plants are alike. You're more likely to achieve better success if you choose high-quality artificial plants and other permanent botanicals for your space. 

Using permanent botanicals offer a number of benefits for your business including:

- Little to No Maintenance – No green thumb required! Live plants need constant attention and care and can be messy. This constant need for care can take time and attention away from your business, ultimately affecting your bottom line. On the other hand, artificial plants will only need an occasional dusting to maintain their gorgeous aesthetics.  
- Zero Environmental Requirements – Permanent botanicals can be placed in any setting regardless of temperature, humidity, and light conditions. Artificial plants also eliminate the need for the tedious watering, fertilizing, and pest control. 
- Customizable – Artificial plants are incredibly versatile. You can choose the perfect color, size, and shape of your permanent botanicals to perfectly compliment the overall design style of your commercial space. 
- Pest and Pesticide Free – Live plants provide the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and insect infestations. Artificial plants eliminate these preferred conditions, helping to keep your business and commercial settings mold, mildew, and insect free. 
- Allergy-Friendly – Allergies affect nearly 50 million people in the U.S., which may be triggered by indoor plants. Artificial plants eliminate potential triggers for customers, clients, and employees who suffer from plant-based allergies.

Going green without a green thumb has never been easier. These stunning, customizable creations add the perfect touch elegance and grace to commercial spaces. Now, your customers, clients, and employees can enjoy the beauty of nature's creations without the hassle! 

Transitioning your Plants from Winter to Spring Sunshine

As winter retreats and spring gracefully enters, plant lovers everywhere start to think about bulbs, garden designs, and getting their gardens transitioned from winter to spring. As we begin envisioning bursting blooms and luscious foliage filling our outdoor spaces, it's important to remember our indoor plants as well!

As the days get longer, our interior plants begin to wake from their winter slumber. It's also a great opportunity to offer your indoor plants some preventative care and maintenance to help them along. Transitioning your indoor plants from winter to spring will help keep both you and your plants happier and healthier all year long.

Room to Grow
As your interior plants prepare for spring, they will need to stretch their roots. This is a great time to give them the extra space they'll need as they grow. Carefully inspect each plant and determine if a slightly larger pot is needed for the upcoming season.

Food for Thought
During winter, your plants won't need the extra fertilizing and nutrients. This means when your plants begin to shake off their winter dormancy, they will be hungry. This is the perfect time to give your indoor plants some extra energy for a healthy boost with things like liquid fertilizers and organic compost.

Spring Cleaning
To ensure your indoor plants thrive, it's important to wash the leaves of your as well. Dust can build up on the leaves of your interior plants, making photosynthesis and breathing difficult. Simply use a damp cloth to wipe the surface as you support the leaf with your hand.

Moving Day
It's also time to think about moving your interior plants. Consider the temperature and light-based needs for each plant and where in your office or home it would be happiest. Windows that face south and west will bring the most sunlight to your beloved beauties. These areas in your home or office make a great spot for indoor succulents and cacti. Once outdoor temperatures stay in the 50's or higher at nighttime, interior plants can be placed outdoors in a protected area for a boost in active growth. It's important to transition your interior plants
outdoors slowly. A shock of sudden, overly abundant sunlight can potentially harm your plants.

With these super simple tips, transitioning your indoor plants from winter to spring is a breeze. With a little love and care, your interior plants will stay healthy and happy while growing lush and full. Contact Interior Plants at www.interiorplantsinc.com or call 609-890-9304.

5 Benefits of Adding Interior Plants

Interior Plants can offer a wide variety of benefits that extend far beyond their beauty. Interior plants can actually help to improve your indoor air quality! Here are 5 benefits of adding interior plants to your decor. 

1. Improve Indoor Air Quality
Many have heard that adding houseplants to your decor can help to improve the quality of your indoor air by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide and foreign particulates in the air. Your plants process the carbon dioxide into oxygen, known as photosynthesis, and release it back into your home. But that's not all! The soil that your plant is in contains microorganisms. These microbes will also provide a beneficial cleaning effect for your home or office. 

2. Reduce Background Noise
For decades, plants have been used outdoors to reduce road and background noise for adjacent neighborhoods. In the same fashion, interior plants can be used to reduce the background noise levels indoors as well! 

3. Reduce Stress
Another great benefit of adding interior plants to your decor is the stress relief they can provide. Adding greenery to your decor can create a feeling of well-being and enjoy the natural calming effect houseplants are known for. 

4. Increase Indoor Humidity
As plants breathe, and during the photosynthetic process, they release moisture vapor into the air around them. By placing several houseplants together, you can ultimately add more humidity to any room. By increasing the humidity indoors, you can keep potential issues like dry skin, coughs and sore throats, colds, and other respiratory distresses at bay.

5. Improve Overall Health
There have been countless studies that show that by adding interior plants to your decor, you can help to improve your overall health. From increased happiness to lower blood pressure, the benefits of interior plants help us to gain a general feeling of optimism and well-being. 

Interior Plants You Can Add to Your Decor
There are plenty of houseplants that are easy to grow and need very little maintenance that can suit any type of decor. Some of the easiest interior plants include:
•    Spider Plant
•    Dracaena
•    Weeping Fig
•    Peace Lily
•    Boston Fern
•    Mother-in-Law's Tongue
•    Bamboo Palm

Looking to improve the air quality of your office or home?  Let Alan of Interior Plants design the perfect indoor plantscape offering both living beauty and health, www.interiorplantsinc.com or call 609-890-9304.

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