F I E L D NO T E S
FOR YOUR LIVING ROOM ONE AT A TIME
It’s tempting to gather armfuls of greenery when you visit a houseplant store and end up with a shopping basket resembling a miniature jungle. Slow down, take your time, choose each plant with care and start with just one. Your experience will grow along with your new friend and you’ll be ready to invite more into your home before you know it. We spend much of our time in our living rooms, so it makes sense to start your green plan here – it’s hard to forget to care for a plant you see all the time. ADJUSTMENT PERIOD
Darryl Cheng of the House Plant Journal blog reminds us to consider the adjustment a plant has to make not only from its natural habitat to living in a pot, but also from being in a garden centre then onwards to our homes. He says we shouldn’t be dismayed by the yellowing of older leaves – just prune gently and help your plant adjust. Make it a morning ritual as the kettle boils to check in and see how your plant is doing and if it would like a drink too. Darryl’s book, The New Plant Parent, is out now (Abrams Image, £17.99). INSPIRATION FROM OTHERS
Photography: Katarzyna Bialasiewicz / GettyImages
Plant stylist Hilton Carter explains his desire for his guests to go ‘wow!’ when they walk into his home (page 52). While you’re developing your own wow factor, indulge in a virtual visit to the stunning plant-filled homes on Instagram. Try our recommendations on page 115 – and take a look at #plantshelfie for a fabulous green fix. There’s an amazing plant community out there!
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