Plants Archives

3 Benefits of Having Flowers and Plants in the Classroom

The term “biophilia” was coined by psychoanalyst Erich Fromm to describe the innate human attraction to nature. Of course, live plants and flowers beautify a classroom — but adding them to a learning environment is more than great design. It also has tangible health and wellness benefits for both students and teachers.

A plant is an ideal entry point into the care and keeping of living things. It is a life skill that can be shared and modeled for other students in the classroom.

Karen Aronian, Ed.D.

Classroom environments strongly influence students’ moods and motivations. A 2020 study published in Building and Environment found that students actively prefer classrooms that include nature and live plants can help students learn more effectively. Students report fewer health issues after spending even short periods of learning in a plant-enriched environment — in some cases, a single lecture was enough. The presence of plants also impacts how students perceive both their educational experience and their instructor, as the same study also found adding indoor plants improves both teacher and educational evaluations.

The benefits of living green plants in a school environment extend far beyond self-reported improvement. “There are endless ways to imbue flowers and plants into our classrooms and nearly as many reasons to do so,” says education design expert Karen Aronian, Ed.D. “Indoor nature can inspire students, improve focus, and reduce anxiety.”

Here are three reasons science says it is beneficial to “go green” in the classroom.

1. Plants improve attention and classroom behavior

Attention and focus are essential for productive learning, but classrooms are inherently full of distractions, such as use of mobile devices, tardiness, and disruptive behavior. Science shows that teachers can improve focus by reducing artificial stimulation with natural elements. Features like green walls can substantially reduce acoustic stimulation, and even a few standalone plants can make a difference. One study found that children with ADHD consistently experience more sustained concentration in classrooms with live plants.

classroom plants with group of school kids with teacher planting herbs

“The act of caring for a plant can provide a big boost for a child’s self-esteem and instill them with a greater sense of responsibility,” Aronian says. “Plant care includes everything from identifying the plant, watering, transplanting, and tracking growth to ensuring the plant has good soil, light, and a temperate environment.

“A plant is an ideal entry point into the care and keeping of living things. It is a life skill that can be shared and modeled for other students in the classroom,” she continues. “It also improves children’s behavior, attentiveness, and confidence.”

2. Classroom plants improve air quality

Live plants are natural filters, helping to remove toxins and allergens from the air, and putting them in a classroom environment adds oxygen and reduces pollution and airborne dust. “Indoor classroom air is different than outdoor air in that it usually contains higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) off-gassing from carpets, glues, and cleaning solutions,” explains Lorena Torres Martinez, assistant professor of biology of St. Mary’s College of Maryland. “Some plants have adapted to metabolize VOCs as part of their protective mechanism, to ward off insects or as a way to attract pollinators, so these species are better at removing these toxins from the environment.”

classroom plants with schoolgirls giving teacher bouquet in classroom

One such plant is an English Ivy, which Torres Martinez keeps in her office because it has been shown to remove toxins — including toluene and benzene, two common carcinogenic indoor pollutants found in paint and glue, among other things — from the air. Snake plants and air plants are also popular air purifying choices. So, how many plants do you need? While there is no standard regarding how many plants are needed to clean the air in a classroom, based on NASA studies from the 1980s, the current rule of thumb is two large plants for every 100 square feet of enclosed space.

Plants and flowers also help improve the scent of a room. Many people are sensitive to chemical fragrances, but flowers act as natural air fresheners. Colorful cut flowers are also an easy addition to classrooms with few windows, as they do not require direct sunlight to thrive.

3. Living plants reduce anxiety and support mental health

The number of students experiencing anxiety, depression, and isolation is at an all-time high. One of the leading causes of this is the overuse of digital devices, which can negatively affect the brain and impair social and emotional intelligence.

One way to help combat these problems is to fill classrooms with living plants, as interacting with indoor plants helps reduce stress and anxiety. “Indoor plants are miniature, practical examples of our colossal forest biomes,” Aronian says. “Just as we can take a stress-reducing meditative forest bath outdoors, we can similarly enjoy the relaxing process of pruning, arranging, smelling, and admiring our indoor blooms.”

Just looking at added greenery can be calming. “Studies show that the visual stimulation of looking at live plants is relaxing, has positive mental benefits, and can reduce stress,” Torres Martinez adds. Working with plant species that have the benefits of aromatherapy is another great way to bring more tranquility to the classroom. Growing fragrant herbs, such as lavender, basil, or mint, can also enhance air quality, with delicate natural scents that act to calm the body and mind.

Back to school prep

As we gear up for the school year, now is a great time for educators to come up with ways to bring more plants into their classrooms in the coming school year.

“Teachers should think about how to incorporate seasonal plants into school celebrations and holidays. They can also create a calendar ahead of the school year and assign each student/family their special week to bring in a live plant or bouquet with related information to share,” Aronian suggests. “This process of choosing and presenting a living ornament to the class ecology can become a favorite ritual for both the students and their community.”

11 Most Common Houseplants

Plants are having a moment and surging in popularity as we look to beautify our spaces both at home and in the office.

common houseplants with Stylish green plants and black watering can on wooden shelves

“Plants are gaining their deserved recognition because they bring continual cheer, add something living and fresh despite the season, and give the plant lover a daily act to care and admire their plant,” says Alfred Palomares, vice president of merchandising at 1-800-Flowers.com.

Our selection of common houseplants was put together with the guidance of Palomares and Renato Cruz Sogueco, an instructor at Floriology, a subsidiary of 1-800-Flowers.com that offers courses focusing on the latest floral design trends.

These 11 popular picks instantly inject a diversity of texture, color, and shape into any home or office. “Ever venture into a jungle? If not, you can certainly create your own with the incredible menagerie of plants we’ve recommended,” Sogueco says.

1. Baby rubber plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)

common house plant with Baby rubber plant

The baby rubber plant, a native of Mexico to northern South America and the Caribbean, is a consistent choice in a plant lover’s collection. It earned 1-800-Flowers.com’s selection for 2022 Plant of the Pear because it is a beautiful, resilient plant that represents optimism for today’s times. This little plant is semi-succulent, with thick, fleshy leaves and stems that retain water. It has bright green leaves or a combination of ivory and green in its variegated form. Its tiny white flowers are borne on 3-to-5-inch-tall spikes in the summer. This is an attractive little plant that will fit nicely in any décor.

2. Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata)

Snake plant, also known as the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue from its long sharply pointed leaves, comes in a number of eye-catching varieties, both short and tall. It comes from Africa and is widely known as Sansevieria but is now officially called Dracaena. The most common snake plant varieties are tall, sword-like plants with horizontal whitish markings or yellow stripes along the sides of the 1-to-2-inch-wide flat leaves that end in a sharp point. Snake plants are excellent air purifiers, and they make a strong statement as vertical accents on the floor or a table.

3. ZZ plant, Zanzibar gem (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

ZZ plants are 2-to-3-inch tall, exotic-looking plants with deep green, glossy, elliptical leaflets, and dark green stems. They come from the forests and dry grasslands of eastern and southern Africa, and are so bright and shiny that they are sometimes mistaken as artificial. “Zanzibar gem or ZZ plants are an option to add a vertical element to the home jungle,” Sogueco says. “Their luscious dark green leaves contribute both stunning color and shape to the space.”

4. Monstera, Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa)

Monstera, or Swiss cheese plant, is a large climbing plant with deeply split leaves that can reach 3 inches long. “If you’re into odd shapes, nothing compares with including a Monstera to your plant mix,” Sogueco says. “When you purchase a young plant, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the leaves develop their distinctive holes as they mature.” Monstera is outstanding as a large floor plant, with a stunning, tropical look that will enhance any space.

5. Echeveria succulent (Echeveria spp.)

common house plants with echeveria succulent

Echeveria is a small, flat succulent with thick, tongue-shaped leaves that come to a sharp point. The plants are only 2 to 3 inches in diameter and come in a variety of colors: light green, gray with pink or purple edges, pink, bluish-green, or white. Echeverias are often planted in little dish gardens with other succulents or cacti and are a lively addition to a bright windowsill or table.

6. Juniper bonsai (Juniperus sp.)

Trees that are clipped and wired according to the ancient Japanese art of bonsai create miniature replicas of full-sized plants. Junipers are the most popular trees used for bonsai because of their ease of training, adaptability to various conditions, and exotic, windswept shape. With their blue-green foliage and gnarled trunks, juniper bonsais are beautiful little trees that appear like works of art and create a calming atmosphere wherever they’re placed.

7. Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata)

common house plants with fiddle leaf fig

The fiddle leaf fig is a stylish floor plant that will be a focal point in your mini jungle. Its shiny, violin-shaped leaves, measuring 12 inches by 8 inches, hang on graceful, slender trunks that can reach up to 10 feet tall indoors. It is native to the rainforests of western Africa, and as a houseplant will make a strong, large-textured statement in a home or office.

8. Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema sp.)

common house plants with chinese evergreen

Chinese evergreens are one of the current darlings of the houseplant world because of their adaptability and beautiful colors. Their ovate leaves come in charming patterns of green, pink, cream, silver, and white. Chinese evergreens are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and have been bred extensively for their colors. They grow 1 foot tall and wide, and make excellent foliage plants for any décor.

9. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Aloe vera is famous for the soothing healing gel inside its succulent leaves. The plants can grow 1 to 2 inches high, and their fleshy, pointed, green leaves are covered with white markings and have soft spines along the edges. They are native to northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. This multi-tasking plant is attractive and has the added benefit of being an emergency salve for bites, stings, and burns.

10. Calla lily, Arum lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)

Graceful and elegant, calla lilies steal the show with their slanted, cup-like flowers and long, arching leaves. The flowers come in various colors: pink, deep burgundy, white, yellow, or orange. They are a favorite cut flower for weddings and handsome floral arrangements but are equally beautiful as live, growing houseplants. Calla lilies are native to the subtropical regions of South Africa and Swaziland.

11. Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

Lucky bamboo is a popular plant gift because it is said to bring wealth and good luck. According to feng shui wisdom, the plant will increase the flow of positive energy in an office or home when placed in the proper direction. Its canes and sharply pointed leaves make it look very much like bamboo, but it is not related. In Chinese culture, the number of stalks and how they are arranged is significant and carries special meaning. It is often sold with stems that are twisted, curled, braided, or grouped into appealing designs.

Best Zodiac Plants for Each Astrological Sign

You’ve heard of using astrology to find a romantic match. But did you know your zodiac sign can also help you find the perfect plant? It’s true. 1-800-Flowers.com teamed with the astrology experts at Sanctuary, a company that offers daily personalized horoscopes, live birth chart readings, and on-demand astrologers, to guide you to what plants are the best match for each sign’s traits.

Room with best plants for zodiac gift guide

“When choosing plants to bring into your space, it’s a good idea to consider the needs of the plant as well as your own needs,” says Haley Houseman, creative director for Sanctuary. “Choosing plants that suit your temperament is the surest way to keep both of you happy.”

The experts suggest thinking about plants the way you think about people: “If you’re interested in a plant whose lifestyle runs counter to yours, you might want to invest a little more energy in the surroundings of your plant, just the way you might have to invest more energy in an unconventional friendship or a romantic match,” Houseman says.

But don’t sweat it if you are a Libra who is obsessed with orchids, the pick for Leos. “There are no ‘bad’ plants or ‘bad’ signs — astrology gives you clues to how best accommodate every sign’s unique aspects to help them thrive, just like the care instructions on your new plant,” Houseman adds.

Read on for the perfect zodiac plants chosen for each sign by the astrology gurus at Sanctuary.

Guide to zodiac plants

photo of zodiac plants with glass succulent terrarium for aries

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Attributes: Independent, secure, leader

Plant: Succulents in Glass Terrarium

Succulents are strong and unique; so, too, is Aries. There’s no hidden agenda here: The see-through container holding these plants lets you see exactly what is on the inside, matching perfectly with Aries’ straightforward and hardworking personality. Just like Aries is a self-starter and wants to run the show, these succulents will last and don’t require a lot of work.

photo of zodiac plants with peace lily plant for taurus

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Attributes: Pragmatic, sensual, reliable

Plant: Peace Lily Plant

The Peace Lily Plant is gorgeous, its greens and snow-white flowers lending an air of both sturdiness and beauty. “A home-loving Taurus might look to curate a perfect setting and be ready to invest in a plant that enjoys the more luxurious side of life,” Houseman says. A Taurus uses his senses more than the other signs, taking in scents and smells, and noticing the way things feel. This thriving plant will appeal to this sign since it is simultaneously hardy and beautiful.

photo of zodiac plants with snake plant for gemini

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Attributes: Brainy, articulate, persuasive

Plant: Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Just as Geminis can rebound from situations and not get affected by adversity, so, too, does the Sansevieria. A hardy, vertical-growing plant with variegated leaves, the Snake Plant is easy to keep healthy for the busy and social Gemini. “An easily distracted Gemini needs something low maintenance,” Houseman says.

photo of zodiac plants with aloe vera plant for cancer

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Attributes: Loving, caring, family-oriented, strong business acumen

Plant: Aloe Vera Plant

Aloe plants aren’t just cool, they actually cool! The substance inside the plant is used as a soothing healing remedy for injures like cuts and burns. One can also take it internally for stomach issues; before you do, though, consult an expert. Since Cancers are known for being emotional and putting family first, having this plant in the sunroom is essential for this sensitive, empathetic individual.

photo of zodiac plants with beachside bliss orchid garden for leo

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Attributes: Generous, ambitious, loyal, comfortable being the center of attention

Plant: Simply Elega nt Orchid Garden

Orchids are a special plant, just like a Leo. They require attention, and they aren’t wallflowers. Need a gift? An orchid is a no-brainer option for this generous, giving sign.

photo of zodiac plants with maiden hair fern for virgo

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Attributes: Kind, gentle, organized, reliable

Plant: Maiden Hair Fern

This pretty plant can take up to three years to grow to its full size, but to get it there, you need to make sure it is kept in a very humid environment. If anyone has the patience and traits to keep this plant healthy and growing, it’s the organized and dependable Virgo. “This plant is the best pick for this sign because it brings an opportunity to find alignment in routines and tasks,” says Sanctuary astrology expert Laura Beth Finley.

photo of zodiac plants with air plant terrarium for libra

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Attributes: Balanced, fair, tasteful, intuitive

Plant: Airplant Terrarium

This airplant is a great choice for the air sign Libra. “It’s the perfect pick for this sign because it brings harmonious vibes to any space,” Finley says. With impeccable taste, a Libra will know just where to display this fun plant in their home. Hang it on a Christmas tree, balancing the orb on a branch, to symbolize Libra’s desire for all things in harmony.

photo of zodiac plants with marble queen pothos plant for scorpio

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Attributes: Mysterious, loyal, secretive

Plant: Marble Queen Pothos Plant

The Pothos plant is easy to care for, and that’s great for a Scorpio who has bigger things percolating. With an attractive green and white variegated pattern, the Marble Queen clears the air in your home. Scorpio can even forget about watering it, as the plant likes its soil to go dry between waterings, but Scorpio’s compassionate soul needs to remember to put it in a light-filled spot.

photo of zodiac plants with majesty palm floor plant for sagittarius

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Attributes: Wise, adventurous, generous, optimistic

Plant: Majesty Palm Floor Plant

The palm fronds on this impressive plant may recall travel memories — or goals — for wanderlust Sagittarius. Sag is too busy learning and philosophizing to do much more than keep these beautiful greens out of indirect sunlight. Yes, the plant needs misting, but Scorpios do so lovingly, longing to feel the humidity of a tropical destination.

photo of zodiac plants with juniper bonsai for capricorn

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Attributes: Trustworthy, practical, sensible, hardworking

Plant: Juniper Bonsai

It’s tough to look at the bonsai tree without feeling zen and calm. Capricorn cares for these trees with the utmost responsibility, and benefits from the meditative state each one gives its owner. The bonsai lasts for years if well cared for, and Cap is one of the longest living signs of the zodiac. The plant is truly representative of this patient soul.

photo of zodiac plants with money tree grove for aquarius

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Attributes: Intellectual, leader, humanitarian

Plant: Money Tree Grove

Aquarius is busy saving the world, so a plant that stays alive with little effort from its owner is just what this socially minded sign needs. The good fortune vibes from this tree grove (there are three) equate well with Aquarius’ desire to make a societal change, especially because the sign isn’t motivated by fortune and fame. “The braiding of the trunks exemplifies how Aquarians can powerfully bring together a community to unite for a greater cause. We don’t see a messy unification here but wise connectivity, leading to a strong foundation that would be hard for any outside influence to break apart,” says Sanctuary astrology expert Julia Modorsky.

photo of zodiac plants with red maranta prayer plant for pisces

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Attributes: Caring, daydreamer, intuitive, imaginative

Plant: Red Maranta Prayer Plant

The red and green leaves of the Prayer Plant fold up like praying hands at night. For the Pisces who care so much about relieving the suffering of others, a plant paying homage to spirituality is a perfect match. The creative Pisces might be dealing with enacting change in the world, so a plant that can thrive without too much work will be a good match for this selfless member of the zodiac.

For all signs

Sanctuary reminds us that plants are similar to people — you can’t change them. If you aren’t equipped to care for a high-maintenance plant, choose a succulent. “Meeting your plants where they are and taking their needs into consideration is the best way to ensure a compatible match between your sign and your special plant pick,” Houseman says.

Sounds like good advice for our human relationships, too. Now that you’ve read which zodiac plants match well with your astrological sign, check out your zodiac flower.

7 Secrets of the Money Tree

When it comes to plants that are said to bring good fortune, indoor gardeners have a lot of options. There’s the shamrock, which has its moment every year on St. Patrick’s Day, as well as the hardy succulent jade plant and water-dwelling bamboo. But by most accounts, the luckiest plant you can add to your houseplant menagerie — and the best for growers of any skill level — might just be the money tree. Want to know more? Here’s an assortment of seven lucky facts every plant lover should know about this charming houseplant essential.

Family matters

A member of the Malvaceae plant family — and cousin to plants as diverse as cacao, cotton, hibiscus, and okra — the Pachira aquatica (as it is known in Latin) has a variety of nicknames, including the Malabar chestnut, Guiana chestnut, French peanut, Saba nut, and Monguba. Whatever you call it, you’d be hard pressed to find a better or more forgiving type of greenery with which to share your home, says Claire Akin, creator of the Houseplant Resource Center.

Money trees are an ideal houseplant for many reasons, Akin says: They’re pet friendly, low maintenance, don’t require a ton of light, and somewhat forgiving if you’re the type who doesn’t always remember to water your plants as often as you should.

A photo of a money tree in a pot — Double the tree, double the luck?

Best of all, they’re incredibly striking, with thick, bark-like, generally braided stems and lush and vibrant glossy green leaves that have a distinct tropical vibe, similar to a palm tree.

Luck be a tree

Although money doesn’t grow on trees, money trees are treasured for their supposed ability to channel good luck into a home. They are thought to be a harbinger of good luck, positive energy, and financial success, says Nikole Washington Nelson, floral merchandiser for Harry & David.

A staple in feng shui, the money tree’s unique structure is believed by followers of the ancient Chinese traditional practice to perfectly encapsulate the five distinct elements that make up the universe: water, wood, fire, earth, and metal.

Placing a money tree plant in an area where you deal with money, such as a business or home office, is thought to summon that good luck and good fortune. And, to make the plant’s supposed powers even stronger, money trees are also often adorned with additional luck-bringing symbols, such as coins and red ribbons.

Keeping your money tree healthy

“The secret to a happy money tree is to give it the conditions it wants — or at least as close to them as you can provide,” according to Justin Hancock, a horticulturist with Miami-based plant nursery Costa Farms, which specializes in growing more than 1,500 different varieties of houseplants. Those conditions break down to as much indirect sunlight as you can provide; natural or artificial light are both fine.

“Ideally, keep your plant within three feet or so of an east- or west-facing window,” Hancock advises. He also recommends giving your plant slow release fertilizer a couple times a year and plenty of water: Let the top couple inches of your money tree’s soil dry out in between waterings — roughly once a week — and then add water to the soil until it starts to drain out the bottom of your pot. When done, empty the drainage tray immediately so the plant’s roots aren’t left standing in excess liquid.

“It is thought that good fortune can be trapped within the braided folds of those trunks.”
Andrew Bunting, vice president of horticulture, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society

Watch out, too, for anything that creates hot or cold drafts, such as old windows or heating, or air-conditioning vents, he adds. “Blasts of air that are noticeably hotter or colder than the ambient air temperature can cause the leaves to go yellow or brown and drop.”

In the wild, the money tree can grow up to 60 feet tall. However, indoor plants usually top out at three to six feet.

“With good care, you can enjoy a money tree in your home for years, or even decades,” Hancock adds.

A globe-traveling history

Although money trees are originally native to the swampy wetlands of Guyana and Central and South America, the tropical aquatic is also widely grown in Japan and East Asia. And that’s where its popularity truly exploded.

“As the story is commonly told, it was a Taiwanese truck driver who first cultivated the plant and helped it become so popular,” says Andrew Bunting, vice president of horticulture with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.

Although the legend of the money tree may sound like something that dates back centuries, its cultivation really only goes back to the 1980s, Bunting adds.

As its popularity increased, he says, growers began braiding several individual seedlings together when the plants were very young. Then, as the plants grew, their stems would fuse together and become one.

“It is thought that good fortune can be trapped within the braided folds of those trunks,” he says.

Did somebody say bonsai?

Although the term “bonsai” generally conjures up images of tiny, immaculately trimmed evergreens, money trees are also an unusually popular plant choice for the practice of bonsai.

“Bonsai plants can vary greatly,” Bunting says. “Most of us are used to seeing more temperate plants used in the practice of maintaining these tiny trees in a small and artful manner. However, many tropical plants like the money tree work exceptionally well and offer a unique spin on this traditional art practice.”

Put your money tree where you mouth is

Although it’s rarely considered “food,” the money tree’s relationship to vegetables, such as okra, and fruits, such as cacao (which is where we ultimately get chocolate from), means that the plant can actually be eaten.

“Though you almost never see them indoors, the money tree can develop really beautiful and interesting flowers,” Hancock says. The large yellow-ish white blooms open at night, are incredibly fragrant, and sport hundreds of feathery red-tipped stamens.

“Surprisingly,” he adds, “they’re generally pollinated by bats.”

The pollinated fruit grows in a pod and bursts open when ripe, exposing dozens of large, reddish-brown seeds. The nutty-tasting seeds can be eaten raw or cooked and are also commonly ground into flour. Young leaves from the plant can also be eaten, as can the flowers themselves — although we’d recommend you spend your time admiring and caring for your money tree rather than sautéing it!

How to Repot a Plant

Like babies outgrowing their cribs, plants eventually need larger accommodations. Repotting plants is essential; otherwise, their smaller space could cause the plant’s health to deteriorate. Re-planting provides more room for the root system to expand so the plant can continue to grow and remain healthy.

How do you know when it is time to repot a plant?

When a plant appears to be too large for its container, it’s time to repot it. This occurs when the plant is pushing against the wall of the pot. The center of the plant will appear very dense, with little room to breathe and grow. In some cases, depending on the plant, the roots can begin to grow upward around the plant or through the bottom of the plant, which is what is known as root bound.

repot a plant with two women as they repot a plant

How to repot your plant in a new container

First, remove the plant from the old container. Scratch and massage the sides and bottom roots. Loosen them a bit. A kitchen fork is helpful in this task. Add some soil to the bottom of the grower’s pot. Center the plant and position it so there is about a half inch below the edge of the pot when filling with soil.

Water your plant more than once a week. As the plant adjusts and roots begin to grow, the plant will need more water. Keep the plant away from full sunlight, as it will be at a tender stage of acclimating to the new pot. Don’t fertilize for about a month. Now your plant is ready to GROW!

A note for homeowners with a well and water softener: Do not use water from your tap that has gone through a water softener, as this contains salts that are harmful for plants. Use water that bypasses the softener, rainwater, or bottled spring water.

How to keep your plant clean and hydrated

Plants love to take a shower! For smaller plants, your kitchen sink is the perfect place to shower off the leaves and hydrate plants that have been dried out over time. Shower your plant and let the water settle for a few minutes, and then hold the soil portion with your hands and turn your plant over to release any excess water. Dry the leaves with a damp cloth to clean off any residue, and clean your pot exterior. This process not only hydrates your plant but also rinses the soil and refreshes and cleans the leaves.

Remember to dust off your plant leaves in between showers.

Safe placement of your plant

When placing your plant on a surface or the floor, be mindful that condensation between the pot and floor can create staining or even damage the surface permanently. It is best to protect all surfaces by using a plant caddy or cork mat to separate the plant pot base from the floor or tabletop surface. Check the type of light —indirect or direct — that your plant requires. Remember to keep your plants away from air conditioning and heating vents.

How to Grow Bulbs in a Container Garden

Bulbs don’t seem to get enough credit. They’re easy to plant, easy to care for, and their colorful blooms can be enjoyed year after year. So why don’t more of us take advantage of them? If you’re looking to spruce up an entryway, patio, or sunroom, look no further than with a bulb container garden. And if you’ve never planted bulbs (or anything else for that matter), don’t worry — we’ve covered everything from buying to planting.

What is a bulb?

Nope, it’s not the thing you stick into a light socket. In botany, a bulb is a circular stem with fleshy leaves for a base. The bulb of a plant stores food and its organs during winter dormancy, which is what allows the flower to bloom every year.

container gardening with Gladiolus Bulbs

What is a container garden?

A container garden is just that: a small garden or collection of plants in a large container. But before you start picturing plants growing out of your Tupperware, we’re here to tell you container gardens are just as exquisite and colorful as traditional ones. And unlike regular gardens, container gardens are perfect for people who don’t have time to take care of a full landscape or are new to groundskeeping altogether. Best of all, they’re amazingly versatile and a great way to introduce some greenery into a small apartment or home without much yard space.

Selecting bulbs

The quality and longevity of your flowers depend on the types of bulbs you get. You want to find bulbs that are plump and firm. Soft, squishy bulbs or ones that have mold on them have started to decay and won’t produce beautiful flowers (or really anything for that matter). You also want to pick the largest of the bunch because those are the ones that will sprout the most flowers. We here at 1-800-Flowers.com know just how exciting it is to care for your flowers and watch them grow — that’s why many of our bulbs ship right to your door, rooted and sprouted!

Caring for your bulbs

You never want your bulbs to spend much time above ground, so the minute they arrive, plant them in soil. The best time to plant them is when the ground is cool and evening temperatures range between 40 and 50° F (aka, now)!

Where to plant bulbs

Whether you decide to stick with a traditional ceramic pot or get a little more creative and use an old toolbox or wooden barrel, the actual container isn’t as important as its location. Containers should be placed somewhere that receives direct sunlight for anywhere from six and eight hours a day.

4 tips for planting bulbs

These best practices will help you get the most out of your bulbs and ensure they keep coming back year after year.

1. Place them deep enough

Finding the right depth to plant your bulbs can be tricky. A good rule of thumb is to dig a hole about two or three times deeper than the height of the bulb. So, if the bulb is 3 inches tall, dig a hole about 6–9 inches deep.

2. Use the right soil

Because bulbs are planted deep in the ground, they tend to do best in well-drained soil (soil that lets water travel through it quickly and evenly).

3. Place them right-side up

If you get bulbs that have a tip or pointed end on one side, plant them so that that end is the one popping out of the ground. If your bulb is more circular, the end with roots growing is the side you place in the ground.

4. Water them well

Despite their different appearance, bulbs act just like seeds — which means they need plenty of water to lay down roots and grow. Ideally, you should water your bulbs every other day.

If you still want the benefit of having a garden without actually going through the process of planting it yourself, you’re in luck! We offer beautiful tulip, iris, and sweet springtime bulb container gardens.

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8 Popular Types of Christmas Greens to Spruce Up the Holidays

The holidays have arrived, so now is the perfect time to brush up on your knowledge of holiday-related topics, including Christmas greenery. How many different types can you name? Become acquainted with the different kinds of Christmas greens below. They are a beautiful way to add something natural to your holiday home.

Fir

There are seven different types of Christmas tree firs: noble fir, balsam fir, Douglas fir, Fraser fir, grand fir, Canaan fir, and Concolor Fir. Each fir tree is unique. For example, Douglas firs range in height from 70 to 250 feet tall, while balsam firs are smaller in size and will grow to be about 40 to 60 feet.

Spruce

Spruce is another common variety you’ll see on the Christmas tree lot. Types of spruces include the Colorado blue spruce, Norway spruce, and white spruce. Similar to pines and firs, spruce trees have needles instead of leaves. The needles on spruce trees are attached individually to the branches rather than in clusters, which is the main difference between spruce and pine trees. Fir trees also have needles grown in this way, but spruce needles are sharp, whereas fir needles are not as pointy.

Pine

Another common holiday green is pine, which you’ll see on everything from Christmas trees to wreaths and fillers in Christmas flower arrangements. The varieties include white pine, Scotch pine, and Virginia pine. You can identify pine by its spindly needles and branches that appear to be bent upwards. It also tends to have fewer branches than other tree types.

Holly

Holly is another classic green plant with distinguishing red berries and prickly leaves. Prior to holly being used as a symbol of the Christmas season, the Druids viewed it as a sacred plant that symbolizes fertility and eternal life. While other plants die off during the winter, holly continues to thrive.

Juniper

Junipers are known for their short green foliage, blue berries, and sap. These hearty plants have a rugged, natural appeal, making them unique greenery to add to your Christmas decor.

Ivy

Ivy may be known for trademarking the top schools in the country, but it is also found in a number of Christmas arrangements. It adds texture and holiday green to arrangements, garland, or as a living wreath. Keep the cut ends in water to maintain their health.

Boxwood

Boxwood is great greenery for garland and wreaths because its fuller texture creates clean, modern arrangements. Its small leaves that closely resemble an olive tree are so attractive that you can use the clippings on their own for the holiday table or stuffed in a stocking.

Mountain laurel

For our readers in the South, you’re probably at least a little familiar with mountain laurel. This is because mountain laurel is traditionally seen in southern regions, and used in garlands and wreaths. It offers a simple spot of white, marked with pink etchings, and provides a refreshing alternative to more mainstay Christmas greenery. It’s best to use laurel outdoors to preserve its freshness.

A holiday home decorated with Christmas greens shows attention to personalization and classic style. Even branches clipped from your garden and strewn on the mantle or perimeter of the front door add instant merriness to the home. It’s especially festive to bring in something natural during the winter season.

7 Best Office Plants For Your Desk at Work

Our homes aren’t the only place that could use a little décor to help create a peaceful and serene environment — our place of work can benefit from the same. Aside from hanging pictures with positive sayings and decorating our desks with photos of family members, having plants throughout the office can also make us smile. Not only can they make you feel good, but studies have shown that employees are more productive when workplaces are decorated with some indoor office plants.

Could your office use a pick-me-up? If so, here are some of the best plants to do just that.

Bamboo

We love using bamboo around the office due to the calming effects it has on work spaces. It’s also known to clean the air, which is another added bonus for your health. These bamboo plants are the perfect size for that space on your desk that appears to be rather empty, and, in addition to the health benefits you experience, you may even find that one brings you a bit of good luck throughout your work day too.

Bonsai

Indoor bonsai will need some sun in the morning, so if your office has south- or west-facing windows, these are an excellent choice to place on the window sill. Maintenance is on the simpler side for indoor bonsai, as they tend to respond best when being watered every two or three days rather than every day.

Cactus

This cactus dish garden is perfect for the office, mainly because of its size. No larger than a paper plate, one of these can fit just about anywhere, but we recommend using one for your desk if your individual work space could use some enhancements — just be strategic about where you put it so that no one who comes to visit you gets stuck by it. These cacti and succulents can survive in low light and no light with very little water, making them a great office plant for any new plant parents.

Snake plant

Sanseveria Zeylanica, aka snake plants, are a showstopper in any office that could use some brightening up. This office plant grows straight up with a glossy, speckled leaf and is extremely low maintenance — you’ll love this plant if your motto is “Work smarter, not harder.” Snake plants are susceptible to root rot, so watering only every three or so weeks is ideal. They also tolerate all types of light as long as it’s not direct (which you rarely get near a desk anyway), making this versatile plant a must for any cubicle in need of some edge.

Orchid

Orchids, the 2023 Flower of the Year, prefer filtered light rather than direct sun, so they’re perfect for spaces that are out of the way of the sun’s rays. We suggest using these to brighten up a corner of your office that’s a bit darker than the rest of your work space. They also only require watering about once or twice a week, so maintenance won’t be too difficult!

Philodendron

Philodendrons are ideal for office environments since they’re relatively easy to grow and can tolerate a ton of different conditions. They’re usually OK even with just occasional care. If this sounds like something you’re interested in, a sandstone garden would be a great choice. It includes a mix of green plants, including silver philodendron, and is the perfect size for a desk, ledge, or shelf.

Peace lily plant

When you’re going to spend 40-plus hours a week in your office, keeping calm is key. A peace lily plant can help with that, and it comes with the bonus of being able to clean and purify indoor air. Keep your peace lily away from cold, drafty windows and out of direct sunlight for best growth results. Peace lilies are an especially good office plant because they can tolerate periods of drought, so they’ll forgive you if you forget about them while you focus on a project deadline.

Why You Should Name Your House Plants

I’m sure you’ve heard by now that “plant parent” is the new “pet parent” — and it’s not just millennials that are obsessed with their plants. People of all ages are looking toward the many health benefits of plants and ways to brighten up their homes or offices.

naming your house plants with apartment dwellers living with plants

When welcoming a new member of your household, it’s customary (and polite!) to give your new “family member” a name, and your #PlantFam is no different. Naming plants has become increasingly popular, so we’ve come up with a list of the benefits of naming your green friends.

Plant expert and 1-800-Flowers.com Vice President of Merchandising Alfred Palomares is a “total plant dad” and has 14 houseplants (!!!) that he affectionately calls the “Shady Ladies.” “My apartment gets a lot of indirect light, which is perfect for my group of houseplants that thrive in this type of environment,” he says.

Reasons for naming your house plants

Naming your family of plants helps you gain a deeper connection with them and gives you a good reason to start talking to them.
Talking to plants has proven to have a calming affect and makes some people feel less lonely. “My plants also make working from home a much calmer, relaxing, and less lonely experience, while also adding beauty to the space,” Palomares says.
Talking to your plants can help them grow faster, likely because of the CO2 you exhale.
“Naming plants is a fun and healthy way of connecting with them,” Palomares says. “It further promotes an investment in plant care — as you watch your plants flourish, you have a sense of excitement, whereas if they aren’t doing so well, you may feel concern and tend to them more.”

3 tips for naming your house plants

1. Learn more about your plants’ names

Usually most plants have more than one name. The snake plant, for example, is also called sansevieria zeylanica. A money tree bonsai is also known as pachira aquatica, and a pilea peperomioides is more commonly known as a UFO plant. With info like that, details in their names may help you pick a name for your new plant fam member.

2. Base your plant’s name on its characteristics

Each plant has its own personality and style, and two plants are the same. Look into the characteristics of your plant, such as leaf color or whether it blooms, like an orchid. If your plant does bloom, what color are its flowers? Are the leaves round, like those of a UFO plant, or spikey, like those of a snake plant? These details can help you find the perfect plant name. Many plants also come in different species, so do some research to make sure you know exactly which one yours is.

3. Be creative and have fun

At the end of the day, there is no wrong way to name your plant, so be creative and have fun with your new green plant! If you want to give your plant a middle name and last name, the world is your oyster.

Plant naming examples for some of our favorite house plants

naming your house plants with Pilea Peperomiodes Plant

Pilea peperomioides aka UFO plant

Potential names: E.T., Alf, Paul the Pilea Peperomiodes

naming your house plants with Arrowhead Hanging Plant

Arrowhead hanging plant aka syngonium

Potential names: Arrow, Pointer, Arthur the Arrowhead Plant

naming your house plants with Snake Plant

Snake plant aka sansevieria zeylanic

Potential names: Slither, Slitherin, Spike, Sanford the Snake Plant, Sans the Snake Plant

naming your house plants with Tranquil Succulent Orchid Garden

Orchids

Potential names: Ork the Orchid, Olivia the Orchid, Zen, Serenity

naming your house plants with Monstera Deliciosa Floor Plant aka Swiss Cheese Plant and Best Plant Name Ideas

Monstera deliciosa aka swiss cheese plant

Potential names: Monty the Monstera, Meryl the Monstera, Audrey (think “Little Shop of Horrors” ;))

3 reasons house plants are a home decor must-have

naming your house plants with woman sitting amongst plants

1. They promote better health

Studies show that houseplants can purify the air as well as improve an overall sense of well-being. Whether you live in the city and want a little apartment detox or crave the comforting vibes of nature surrounding you, indoor plants are a great way to keep you inhaling the good and exhaling the bad.

2. They help keep you company

Plants make for a much calmer, relaxing, and less lonely space. Have you ever heard the saying that you’re never alone when you’re with Mother Nature? People visit forests, parks, and gardens for a reason — nature is known to soothe and relax us. Having indoor plants is like bringing some of nature home with you.

3. They make you care about something other than yourself

Having plants to care for gives you the same nurturing feeling that having a pet or child would (OK, maybe not exactly the same, but hear us out…). Giving your plants water when they’re droopy, sunlight when they’re losing their color, and fertilizer when they’re losing their leaves can give you a sort of attachment to them. Suddenly, you worry when your plant starts looking “sick” and start googling remedies, asking friends, and giving your plants more love and attention. You may even start talking to your plants!