Indoor Plants

Beautifying the Home: An Overview of Houseplants

In the hectic pace of modern life, finding moments of peace and connection with nature can be difficult. However, there is a simple yet effective solution to add a touch of greenery and serenity to our spaces: houseplants. These not only add aesthetic beauty, but also add peace and balance to our day-to-day lives.

In this article, we will further explore these fascinating options for bringing a little piece of nature inside our homes.

A Green Breath in Enclosed Spaces

Indoor plants are not only decorative elements, but also act as natural air purifiers. Scientific studies defend their ability to filter toxins and, thus, improve the quality of the air in closed environments, which contributes to create a healthier environment for those who inhabit them.

In addition, the care and presence of plants is also a factor in improving mental health, reducing anxiety and stress in those around them. The routine care they require and their connection to nature can have therapeutic effects on their caretakers.

History and Evolution of Houseplants

Since the beginning of history, plants have played a vital role in human life. Throughout history, civilizations have cultivated plants for both their practical utility and aesthetic value. However, it was during the Victorian era that houseplants experienced a boom in popularity. Interest in botany and the exploration of new species led to the creation of lush indoor gardens in the mansions of high society.

During the 20th century, with increasing urbanization and the loss of green space, houseplants took on new meaning. They became symbols of connection to nature in increasingly gray and urban environments. Today, growing houseplants is a global trend that goes beyond decoration, being considered a lifestyle that promotes wellness, calm and sustainability.

Popular Varieties:

1. Anthurium: Ideal for those looking for a splash of color in their plants.Well cared for, they also have a long life expectancy.
2. Sanseviera: With its beautiful green and yellowish tones and itslong, pointed leaves, it is an unmistakable houseplant.
3. Ficus: With its glossy leaves and ability to adapt to different light conditions, ficus is a popular and suitable choice for decorating your indoor spaces.
4. Orchid: With their exotic flowers, orchids are a proclamation of elegance and style.
5. Crassula: From thesucculent family, this plant retains a lot of water in its leaves, which explains its peculiar appearance. Perfect for those looking for a more exotic and daring aesthetic.

Care and Maintenance:

Although houseplants are generally more tolerant than their outdoor counterparts, they still require proper care to thrive. Some tips for care include:

1. Take care of light: Knowing the light needs of each plant is critical. Some need indirect light, while others prefer direct sunlight for growth.
2. Water in moderation: Avoiding overwatering is paramount, as it can lead to overhydration. It is best to water sparingly and allow the substrate to dry out between waterings.
3. Keep an eye on humidity: Many houseplants appreciate a little moisture. Spraying water on the leaves or placing the pots on a tray with wet pebbles can help keep them at optimum humidity.
4. Fertilizing: Providing additional nutrients to plants is important for the healthy growth of your plants. At Omotesando we offer our fertilizer Plant Food fertilizer to make sure your plant gets the nutrients it needs.
5. Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the shape and health of plants by removing dead and diseased leaves and encouraging vigorous growth.

Health and Wellness Benefits:

In addition to their aesthetic value, houseplants offer a number of health and wellness benefits. Scientific studies have shown that the presence of plants indoors:

1. Improves air quality: Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, thus helping to purify the air and reduce pollution levels.
2. Reduces stress: The simple presence of plants in an indoor environment can have a calming effect and reduce the stress and anxiety levels of the people they accompany.
3. Increases productivity: Studies have shown that having plants in the workplace can increase productivity and concentration.
4. Promotes healing: In healthcare settings, houseplants contribute to faster recovery and improved patient mood.

Yet, in Omotesando we specialize in the special houseplant formats presented below:

Kokedamas: Miniature Living Art.

Originating in Japan, kokedamas are a unique and elegant way of presenting houseplants. This technique, which literally translates to "moss ball," involves wrapping the plant's roots in a compact ball of moss and soil, creating a natural, self-sustaining sphere. One of the most attractive features of kokedamas is their versatility. Almost any houseplant can be transformed into a kokedama, from delicate ferns to robust crassulas.

Terrariums: Miniature Ecosystems

The terrariums or bowl gardens are another wonderful way to integrate nature indoors. These small ecosystems consist of plants, soil, moss and rocks carefully placed inside a glass container. Terrariums are self-sufficient and require little maintenance, making them a perfect option for those with busy schedules or limited space, as well as providing a very elegant and special aesthetic.

If you are interested in kokedamas and bowl gardens, at Omotesando we offer options for those who want to deepen their passion for plants: Our DIY packs and our Workshops.

• Our DIY packs, from the English expression Do It Yourself (are packs with the raw materials and instructions needed to make your own kokedamas and bowl gardens with Omotesando Plants' own techniques.
• Our workshops are held in our shop-workshop in Mercantic, located in Sant Cugat del Vallès, very close to Barcelona. They are perfect to learn how to make our kokedamas and bowl gardens with attention to technique and detail.

Connecting with nature in your own home

In short, indoor plants are not just decorative elements, but living companions that bring beauty, freshness and tangible benefits for health and well-being. From classic ficus to delicate orchids, there is a houseplant for every style and need. By incorporating them into our home and workplace, we not only create a more pleasant environment, but also connect with nature in a meaningful way.

In our catalog Hanko - Houseplants you will discover the wide variety of houseplants we offer and learn about customizing them.