House Plant Trends & Tips For Getting The Best Results

As design enthusiasts, we’re thrilled to be at the forefront of the biophilic movement in architecture and interior design. One of the most accessible and affordable ways to integrate natural elements into your home is by embracing the world of house plants. With their versatility, ease of care, and visual appeal, it’s no wonder they’ve become a staple in many homes today.

I’m excited to collaborate with my sister-in-law Melissa Peterson, the creative force behind Ted’s Gardens, a renowned garden center in Iowa. As a seasoned expert in her field, Melissa has curated an impressive selection of house plants that cater to various tastes and preferences. As someone who’s had the pleasure of growing their own house plant collection under Melissa’s guidance, I can attest to the transformative power of these green friends.

Not only do they add a touch of personality to our living spaces, but they also play a crucial role in creating a sense of harmony and balance. In fact, research has shown that plants have a profound impact on our wellbeing, purifying the air we breathe, promoting relaxation, and fostering a sense of calm. In this conversation with Melissa, we’ll dive into the current trends and must-haves in house plants, as well as share practical tips for ensuring they thrive under your care.

Whether you’re an experienced plant parent or just starting out, you’ll find valuable insights to help you cultivate a lush and vibrant indoor garden.

Trending House Plants #1

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is often overlooked as a stylish house plant, but it’s actually a beautiful addition to any room. When paired with an earthy planter, its airy and zen qualities are truly striking. While many people use eucalyptus in floral arrangements, it also thrives as a standalone houseplant. According to Melissa, Eucalyptus requires consistent moisture, which I can attest is crucial for its survival – letting mine dry out led to rapid decline.

When kept moist and placed in a spot with bright light, this plant can grow quite large depending on the size of your pot. Come summer, it’s even happy to spend time outdoors, soaking up the sunshine.

Trending House Plants #2

Pothos

With its versatility and ease of care, it’s no wonder that Pothos is a fan favorite among plant enthusiasts, particularly for those with busy schedules or limited natural light. This low-maintenance houseplant can flourish in a range of lighting conditions, from dimly lit corners to bright, sunny windows. To keep your Pothos happy and healthy, simply water it when the soil has dried out slightly – a simple habit to get into.

When it comes to choosing a variety, you’re spoiled for choice, with popular options like Rio, Silver Stripe Philodendron, Neon, and Marble Queen offering unique characteristics and charm.

Trending House Plants #3

ZZ Plant

Ted’s Gardens boasts an impressive selection of ZZ plants, with their ease of care and adaptability to low-light conditions making them a top choice among plant enthusiasts. The plant’s unique architectural features, including its vibrant green leaves and branches, have captivated many, including myself. My personal ZZ plant has flourished under my care, doubling in size over the past couple years.

I’ve found that watering it every 7-10 days with my other plants, gradually increasing the amount as it grows, is a foolproof method for keeping it happy and healthy. While I’m confident that even the most novice of plant parents could successfully care for this hardy species, I must admit that I’ve developed a strong affinity for these plants – perhaps to the point where I wouldn’t be able to kill one intentionally!

Melissa has mentioned the ZZ Raven variety, introduced in 2019, as a popular and trendy new addition to many homes. The Raven’s striking dark purplish leaves offer a stylish alternative to the classic bright green hue of the more common ZZ plant. In fact, I’ve been eyeing this unique variety for my own home, where it would thrive in the low-light conditions of my master bedroom.

Trending House Plants #4

Hoyas

With the rise of house plant enthusiasts, Hoyas have become increasingly popular among collectors. Like begonias, these plants boast an impressive array of varieties, allowing for a unique and diverse collection. Two standout species are Hindu Rope Hoya and Obovata, both prized for their striking appearances. When displayed in a hanging basket, the Hindu Rope’s intricate foliage truly shines.

For optimal growth, Hoyas require bright indirect light or direct sunlight from eastern and western windows. However, it’s essential to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, as some varieties may prefer consistent moisture levels.

Trending House Plants #5

Cissus Discolor

As I first laid eyes on Cissus Discolor, I was captivated by its unique appearance. Its distinctiveness set it apart from any house plant I had previously encountered. Initially, I brought one home and kept it indoors for several months, but it seemed to struggle. It wasn’t until the weather warmed up that I relocated it to my outdoor deck, where it joined my begonias in thriving.

What struck me as peculiar was its resemblance to Rex begonias – a comparison that belies its true nature as a trailing vine closely related to grapes. This epiphany shed light on why my Cissus Discolor had been languishing indoors; its affinity for high humidity meant it struggled to flourish during the winter months in my colder climate. The move outdoors, where it could bask in the warm sunlight and humid air, proved the catalyst for its revitalization.

Trending House Plants #6

Begonias

Begonias are a staple in my home, and for good reason. The diversity of leaf shapes, colors, and patterns is truly captivating. Among the many varieties I’ve had the pleasure of growing, Rex stands out as one of the most iconic and popular. With six potted begonias adorning my living room, including two Rex specimens, each with its unique characteristics, it’s a treat to gaze upon them.

When I’m not admiring their beauty indoors, you can find one of my favorites making the most of the great outdoors. According to experienced gardener Melissa, begonias thrive in environments with higher humidity and consistent moisture levels – just be sure to avoid drying out between waterings. In my experience, these plants do remarkably well in indirect light.

With northern and eastern windowsills providing a gentle glow throughout the day, I make it a point to rotate my begonias every few months, giving each one a chance to bask in the sunlight. As I sit here surrounded by their lush foliage, I’m reminded of the trailing begonia that adds a touch of whimsy to my mantle – it’s a delightful addition to our home.

Trending House Plants #7

Calathia

Ted’s Gardens is a haven for many beautiful house plants, including my beloved Calathea. What draws me to this species is their stunning leaves with contrasting colors on top and underneath. I had the pleasure of nurturing a Medallion variety for several years, watching it close its leaves at night to reveal the striking purple hue beneath. As morning dawned, the leaves would unfurl once more, showcasing their intricate patterns.

While Calathea can thrive in lower light conditions, they generally prefer brighter, indirect illumination. My experience with these plants has taught me the importance of allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings – a crucial step in maintaining their health and preventing unwanted pests like little black flies from taking up residence.

Trending House Plants #8

Fatsia Japonica

While Fatsia Japonica may not be as widely known as some other trendy houseplants, it’s certainly gained popularity in recent times. Melissa highlights two particularly sought-after varieties: Spider Web and Camouflage, which boast unique variegation on their leaves. As someone who appreciates the plant’s striking foliage, I’m drawn to its large, flat leaves with a distinctive shape.

When it comes to lighting, Fatsia Japonica prefers lower indirect light – direct sunlight can actually cause the leaves to bleach, so it’s best to provide filtered or dappled light instead.

Honorable Mentions

While the plants we mentioned earlier offer impressive benefits, there’s an even wider range of options available for those looking to bring some greenery into their homes. Melissa and I have a few personal favorites that we’ve incorporated into our own spaces, including larger trees that can add a striking visual element to empty corners.

One trend we’re seeing is the rise in popularity of olive trees – think Fiddle Leaf Fig, but on steroids.

They’re already starting to make appearances in design magazines and on home decor blogs, so it’s likely they’ll become the next big thing.

Of course, citrus trees are another option to consider. These larger trees will require some decent space and good lighting, but can be easily moved outside during the warmer months.

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-maintenance, the Burgundy Rubber Tree is an excellent choice.

It’s fast-growing, easy to care for, and boasts beautiful dark purple/black foliage that adds a pop of color to any room.

For those who want to make a statement, the Money Plant is definitely worth considering. Not only is it relatively easy to grow, but it can also get quite large – I’ve seen some specimens reach over two feet tall in just a year or so! We actually picked up a small one from Trader Joe’s that has already grown significantly since we brought it home.

Tips for Keeping Your Plants Healthy & Beautiful

When it comes to choosing a pot for my house plants, I often find myself drawn to vintage options or unique finds that catch my eye. However, Melissa’s tips for selecting the perfect pot and keeping my plants healthy have given me new insights. For instance, she recommends choosing a pot that is at least 2 inches larger in diameter than the plant’s original plastic container. This allows for proper drainage and prevents waterlogged soil.

In terms of drainage, Melissa stresses the importance of pots with holes. If you’re looking at a pot without pre-drilled holes, don’t worry – it’s easy to drill your own using a diamond bit. To prevent soil loss while still allowing excess water to drain, place a coffee filter or small square of needle stitch mesh over the hole. Of course, not all pots have drainage holes, so Melissa also suggests adding a layer of fungus and charcoal at the bottom of the pot as an alternative.

This natural barrier can help prevent fungus and mold growth. As someone who prefers a more curated aesthetic, I tend to favor pots with attached dishes or unique textures and glazing. Not only do these features add visual interest, but they also make it easier to water my plants without having to move them to a sink or bathtub. From an artistic perspective, I’ve developed a fondness for a specific color palette that complements my existing collection of planters.

Neutral and blue-green hues are among my favorites, as they create a soothing atmosphere in my home. When searching for new planters, I keep an eye out for interesting glazes and textures that will fit seamlessly into my decor. Melissa also shared some valuable advice on relocating houseplants to the outdoors during the summer months. For optimal results, wait until your area’s frost-free date has passed and consider the light requirements of each plant before placing them outside.