Popular Better Homes and Gardens Plants
There is a wide variety of plants that fall under the umbrella of Better Homes and Gardens plants. Here are some popular choices that are both beautiful and relatively easy to care for:
Indoor Plants
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Light Requirements: Tolerates low to bright indirect light.
- Watering: Water every 2-6 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Benefits: Air-purifying qualities and resilience make it a favorite among beginners.
2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- Light Requirements: Thrives in low to bright indirect light.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Benefits: Known for its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, it’s perfect for hanging baskets.
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
- Light Requirements: Prefers low to medium indirect light.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy; water weekly.
- Benefits: Produces beautiful white blooms and is excellent at improving indoor air quality.
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate lower light.
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Benefits: Easy to propagate and known for its air-purifying properties.
Outdoor Plants
1. Lavender (Lavandula)
- Light Requirements: Requires full sun.
- Watering: Water infrequently; prefers well-drained soil.
- Benefits: Aromatic flowers that attract pollinators and can be used in cooking.
2. Daylilies (Hemerocallis)
- Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Benefits: Resilient perennials that bloom profusely throughout the summer.
3. Hostas
- Light Requirements: Prefers shade to partial shade.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist.
- Benefits: Known for their lush foliage and variety of colors, excellent for shady areas.
4. Geraniums (Pelargonium)
- Light Requirements: Needs full sun for optimal growth.
- Watering: Water when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Benefits: Versatile flowers that can brighten up any garden space.
Caring for Better Homes and Gardens Plants
Taking care of your plants is crucial for their health and longevity. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that your Better Homes and Gardens plants thrive:
Watering Techniques
- Check Soil Moisture: Before watering, check if the top inch of the soil is dry.
- Watering Frequency: Different plants have different needs. Research each plant's specific requirements.
- Avoid Overwatering: This is one of the most common mistakes. Ensure pots have drainage holes.
Lighting Conditions
- Understand Plant Needs: Some plants thrive in bright light, while others prefer low light.
- Rotate Plants: To ensure even growth, rotate your plants every few weeks if they are in a fixed location.
- Adjust for Seasons: The angle of sunlight changes with seasons, so adjust plant positions accordingly.
Fertilization
- Use Quality Fertilizers: Select a fertilizer that matches your plant type (e.g., succulent fertilizer for cacti).
- Frequency: Most houseplants need fertilization every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Signs of Over-Fertilization: Yellowing leaves or stunted growth can indicate over-fertilization.
Incorporating Plants into Home Design
Plants can dramatically change the ambiance of your home. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate Better Homes and Gardens plants into your interior and exterior design:
Indoor Decoration
1. Create a Focal Point: Use a large plant, such as a fiddle leaf fig, in a corner to draw attention.
2. Shelving Displays: Mix plants of different heights and textures on shelves for visual interest.
3. Hanging Plants: Utilize macramé hangers for trailing plants like pothos to save space and add a bohemian touch.
Outdoor Spaces
1. Planter Boxes: Build or buy planter boxes to create a tiered garden effect.
2. Pathway Borders: Line pathways with low-growing plants like creeping thyme for an inviting touch.
3. Container Gardens: Use pots to create a mobile garden that can be rearranged as needed.
Seasonal Care Tips
Different seasons require different care strategies for your plants. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Spring
- Repotting: Consider repotting plants that have outgrown their containers.
- Fertilizing: Start fertilizing as plants come out of dormancy.
- Pest Control: Inspect for pests as plants begin to grow more actively.
Summer
- Watering: Increase watering frequency, especially for outdoor plants in direct sunlight.
- Pruning: Trim dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth.
- Mulching: Apply mulch in garden beds to retain moisture.
Fall
- Preparing for Dormancy: Reduce watering for indoor plants as they enter dormancy.
- Bring Outdoor Plants Inside: Before the first frost, bring tender outdoor plants indoors.
- Cleaning: Clean leaves to prevent pests during the winter months.
Winter
- Humidity Control: Indoor heating can dry out air; consider using a humidifier.
- Less Watering: Most plants need less water during this time, so adjust your schedule accordingly.
- Pruning: Lightly prune any dead or dying leaves to keep plants healthy.
Conclusion
Incorporating Better Homes and Gardens plants into your home and garden can create a vibrant, inviting environment. By choosing the right plants, mastering care techniques, and integrating them into your design, you can enjoy the numerous benefits that plants offer. With a bit of dedication and creativity, you can cultivate a lush haven that brings joy, serenity, and beauty to your everyday life. Whether indoors or outdoors, the right plants can make all the difference in transforming your space into a better home and garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy-to-care-for plants recommended by Better Homes and Gardens?
Better Homes and Gardens often recommends plants like pothos, snake plants, and ZZ plants for their low maintenance and air-purifying qualities.
How can I choose the right indoor plants for my home according to Better Homes and Gardens?
Consider the light conditions of your space, the humidity level, and your ability to care for them. Better Homes and Gardens suggests matching plants to your environment and lifestyle for the best results.
What are the benefits of incorporating native plants into my garden as suggested by Better Homes and Gardens?
Native plants are beneficial as they require less water and maintenance, provide habitat for local wildlife, and are more resistant to pests and diseases, promoting a healthier ecosystem.
What seasonal plants does Better Homes and Gardens suggest for a spring garden?
For spring gardens, Better Homes and Gardens recommends planting tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths for vibrant color and early blooms.
How can I create a sustainable garden using Better Homes and Gardens' recommendations?
To create a sustainable garden, focus on using native plants, composting, implementing rainwater collection, and practicing organic gardening methods as suggested by Better Homes and Gardens.
What are the top trending houseplants featured by Better Homes and Gardens in 2023?
In 2023, trending houseplants include monstera, fiddle leaf fig, and various types of succulents, known for their aesthetic appeal and ability to thrive in indoor environments.
