UNUSUAL GROWING TECHNIQUES

More people than ever are turning to indoor gardening, and gardeners themselves are becoming increasingly adventurous in how they grow and display their plants. Architects and interior designers are routinely including indoor planting designs in their blueprints for buildings, and the range of containers, houseplant lighting, and supports is expanding rapidly to meet demand.

Modern homes are now often designed to allow maximum light into rooms, so that houseplants can thrive.

PLANTING IN WATER

Hydroponics is the term used to describe growing plants in water. Not only is it one of the easiest methods of growing some houseplants, it also has immense visual impact: instead of hiding plant roots in a container of potting mix, you can make them visible by using a see-through container (often glass). Decorative pebbles to help support the plants in the water add to the effect. Use water-soluble fertilizer in spring and summer and replace the water regularly to keep it clean.

If growing hyacinth bulbs in water, position them just above the surface.

GROW LIGHTS

Domestic lighting is sometimes used to create greater impact in a room and dramatize plants—but not all household lighting (domestic light bulbs, for example) will assist plant growth, and some can even scorch the leaves if they’re too close. Special lighting systems are, however, widely available. These “grow lights” are designed to provide the right type and quality of lights for plants and encourage sun-loving plants to grow in areas where natural light is limited. They’re also used to light up displays without increasing the temperature or risking foliage scorch. Keep an eye out for plant-boosting lights that will also contribute to the ambience of a room.

Dramatize your plant displays at night by using artful lighting techniques.

Invest in horticultural lights if growing plants in a shady room.

LIVING WALLS

Indoor gardeners often have to try to fit as many plants as possible into cramped spaces. A living wall is a great solution to this problem. Specially designed wall-hanging planters are available for this style of display, including ones with individual modules that allow you to easily add and replace plants as needed. However, it’s vital you choose the right plants for the right wall.

Combine plants that need the same care and growing environment and give them space—tightly packed displays won’t remain healthy.

Air plants that grow happily without soil can be used to cover a wall if you tie them into a frame with string. This is an easy display option as the frame can be removed to both mist and water the plants without causing damage to plasterwork.

Tie air plants to a frame with string and display it on a wall.

INSIDE-OUT PLANTS

Gardeners with a small outdoor space soon realize that some houseplants can easily be moved outside during the summer months. Use heavier pots if you’re considering doing this to prevent the plants from being damaged by winds. You can use lighter pots if you keep an eye on the weather and move them back inside if heavy rain or wind are forecast. Light rain and fresh air are good for plants and keep them clean.

Houseplants will often thrive outside in summer and may reward you with a spectacular tropical display.