Once the excitement of the holidays starts wearing off, we’ve still got a long stretch of winter weather to look forward to. If you’re the ski-doo or snowboarding type, this might be good news, but for many of us, the weather signifies a waiting game until patio season. Short days, freezing temperatures, and perhaps a touch of cabin fever can start to wear on the best of us by mid-January, but we’re not without options! During the winter months, indoor plants are the ultimate multi-purpose decoration. Turns out, a little strategic decorating with houseplants can pump some energy back into your life and buoy your mood until the spring. Here’s how!
Human beings evolved to spend most of our time outside, which is why we feel so invigorated on a summer hike through the forest. In our climate, it’s not always possible to surround ourselves with green leaves outdoors, but we can mimic the forest effect inside! Make the most of your home’s natural light by piling in houseplants that evoke the feeling of a jungle safari or tropical expedition. Plants like fiddle leaf fig or weeping fig can add some height while large-to-mid-sized plants like monstera deliciosa and bird of paradise can fill a corner with foliage. Meanwhile, vining houseplants like philodendrons and pothos can help a dull shelf or mantel take a walk on the wild side.
According to the ancient art of feng shui, all the elements of your room make an impact on your sense of well-being. All the characteristics of your decor—including your plants–contribute to the overall energy of the space. The best indoor plants for positive energy are those that feature shapes and colours that make you smile. Take, for example, the fun shape and eye-catching colours of a moth orchid, or the adorable necklace-like vines of succulents in the senecio family, such as string of pearls, string of dolphins, and string of bananas!
Winter has its own special beauty, but when the cold has us reluctant to go outside, it’s easy to get a little understimulated from time to time. Plants that appeal to our five senses are a big help in combatting the winter doldrums. For example, the fuzzy leaves of the African violet are so cute, petting them is almost as much fun as petting a kitten. Meanwhile, star jasmine blooms fragrant flowers that can add a sweet aroma to your living space.
Don’t forget about your sense of taste! You can grow fresh, fragrant herbs by your windowsill all year ‘round, which will do wonders for your cooking. If you’ve been overindulging in restaurant delivery, adding your own homegrown herbs will bring all the same flavour and novelty at a fraction of the cost and calories. An indoor citrus tree will take that enjoyment to the next level with fragrant, tasty, colourful fruit with natural mood-boosting properties. You can also try growing an ornamental pepper plant—they’re so adorable, you might not even want to eat them!
All of these may sound great, but what if your home is a north-facing apartment? Low-light situations can be tough for growing your favourite plants indoors, but fortunately, not impossible. Opt for plants that thrive in low light to make your space feel instantly lighter and brighter. Rubber tree, ZZ plant, peace lily, and snake plant are all great picks for dimmer rooms that make a big, beautiful impact.
Grey skies don’t have to get you down—you just need the right attitude and the right leafy green decorations! Be sure to stop by to pick up a few fabulous, energizing houseplants to add to your collection.
