National HousePlant Appreciation Day

January 10th is National Houseplant Appreciation Day. No really, it's an official day, and why not. The Gardener's Network proclaimed that January 10th as National Houseplant Appreciation Day. Winter is the perfect time of year to appreciate our green friends. With most plants outside dead or dormant your beautiful indoor houseplants are thriving and full of life and Houseplant Appreciation Day the perfect opportunity to brighten up your home with a splash of green of a living plant. 

Some people say, I don't have a green thumb or I kill every plant I touch, but it has been said that caring for and having indoor plants is very therapeutic. Houseplants offer many benefits. For example, Aloe Vera grows very well indoors and helps with minor burns and moisturizes the skin. You can improve your well being by decorating your home with healing plants.
Here is a list of air purifying plants:

• Philodendron
• Peace Lily
• Aloe Vera
• Snake Plant (aka Mother-in-Law's Tongue)
• Spider Plant
• Boston Fern
• Chrysanthemums
• Weeping Fig
• English Ivy
• Gerbera Daisy
• Bamboo Palm
• Asparagus Fern
• Rubber Plant
• Lucky Bamboo

How about an herb garden? One of my favorite ways to bring the outdoors in is to create a fresh herb garden with basil, cilantro and rosemary growing under glamours glass cloches. Cloches are commonly known as glass bell jars or domes. They are so beautiful and add a very stylish design element. ​A little history about the glass cloche. In 1623, the glass garden cloche was invented by an Italian glassmaker. It is a bell-shaped glass cover that works like a mini-greenhouse. The French quickly adopted the cloche, followed by English and Dutch gardeners. Thomas Jefferson also used cloches in the gardens at Monticello. Source 
Don't forget to use a mister the leaves could use a spritz or two of water every day or two. This antiqued metal spray nozzle mister adds a touch of nostalgia.

How about a Fiddle Leaf Fig? This houseplant is a hit with all the top designers and is an insta-star, but many complain they can't keep one alive for very long. The key is bright, filtered light by a window, but make sure there is no draft of cold air. The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a tropical plant and likes warmer temps. Water only when the soil is dry, then water thoroughly and let dry again. You'll find more tips here on how to care for this plant.

So, how will you celebrate National Houseplant Appreciation Day?
Here is a list of easy indoor houseplants that are pretty tough.