Via Oregon - September/October 2021 - 46

SMART GUIDE
6
Think like a decorator. Most of us
bring flowers, herbs, and other
plants into our homes because we
like the way they look. Beauty,
however, can be subjective. In the
trend-driven field of home décor,
the plants that are currently
having a moment include: the
Chinese money plant, trailing
succulents, cacti (bunny ears,
fishbone, and monkey tail), and
foliage plants (split leaf
philodendron, cylindrical snake
plant, sansevieria moonshine, and
ficus decora). Can't decide? " The
best place to start is color, "
Kastner advises. " Minimalist décor
goes best with plants of similar
shades of dark green, whereas
eclectic décor benefits from
plants with contrasting colors. "
She also recommends contrasting
textures when arranging plants to
create an eye-catching mix.
7
46 VIA | SEPTEMBER+OCTOBER 2021
Source supplies strategically. The vast
array of options can be overwhelming.
Focus on the basics, and seek form and
function, Kastner advises. At minimum,
pick up the right soil and pots, plus a
watering can and a spray bottle. When
choosing soil, research what best suits
your plants. " Measure to make sure
you're buying the correct size pot for
each plant, " Kastner says. Or try repurposing
instead: Egg cartons work as
seed starters; old teacups, bowls, and
other vessels provide colorful pots.
8. Buy from sustainable growers.
Support nurseries that shun
pesticides, use renewable energy
and natural fertilizers, and recycle
water and packaging. Nick Bavaro,
chief operating officer of Rocket
Farms, the nation's largest grower
of indoor flowers, says consumers
can make good ecological choices.
These include buying locally grown
products in environmentally
friendly packaging and considering
each plant's sustainability. For
example, opt for species that are
native, drought tolerant, and do not
have significant pest or disease
problems. Bavaro also advises
purchasing certified organic plants.
Want the houseplant that's the
most effective at removing carbon
dioxide from the air? Get yourself a
prayer plant.
LEFT: TANYA NZ / SHUTTERSTOCK; RIGHT: YULAI STUDIO / SHUTTERSTOCK
Via Oregon - September/October 2021

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