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After a summer spent outdoors and long periods of sunshine, now is the time to think about indoor greenery and the visual contrast between our decor and the natural beauty of flora.
Especially now that our gardens take a backseat with the change of season and we focus on furnishing our homes for autumn.
To bring colour to your home and convey wellbeing, calm and happiness, David Denyer, Eflorist flower expert, shares his best indoor plants to display now…
1. Spider plants
“Spider plants are very adaptable, meaning they will grow well in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright kitchens to shadier living rooms,” Denyer notes.
“With shorter days and cooler temperatures, it’s nice to have a plant that’s low-maintenance and forgiving.”
Spider plants also help improve indoor air quality, which is great when we close the doors and take shelter for the season, Denyer notes.
“Its striped, cascading leaves add a lovely green touch to any room.
“Plus, they are very forgiving if you forget to water them from time to time.”
She continues: “They are not fussy and can handle a little neglect, making them perfect for busy lifestyles.”
2. Chrysanthemums
“For fall, I love potted chrysanthemums,” says Denyer.
“These vibrant flowers have a long history, especially in East Asia, where they symbolize joy and longevity. Their bright colors can really liven up your space and remind you of the changing seasons.”
She says caring for chrysanthemums is fairly easy. “They love full daylight and well-drained soil, so choose a sunny but sheltered windowsill and make sure the soil isn’t too soggy.
“Removing some of the wilted flowers, that is, removing the old flowers, can help them continue to bloom for longer.”
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera may not seem like fall, but its rich, green, succulent leaves are perfect for a modern, cozy home, Denyer says.
“Aloe vera is low maintenance and can withstand the drier indoor air that is common during the fall, while providing soothing benefits for dry skin.”
If you want to use aloe vera directly from the plant, she says there are a few things to keep in mind…
“Start with a patch test to make sure you don’t have any reaction, clean the blade thoroughly before cutting it, and you may want to peel off the outer skin as it can sometimes be irritating,” Denyer advises.
She says any leftover gel should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. “And if you experience any irritation or rash, stop using it immediately.”
That being said, I would personally recommend using store-bought aloe vera gel – it's easier and avoids potential problems with the plant.
“This way, you can keep your aloe vera looking great and continue enjoying its benefits without any problems.”
4. Poinsettias
Poinsettias are a must if you want something beautiful and easy to care for, enthuses Denyer.
“These festive plants, with their vibrant reds and greens, really capture the spirit of the season and add a classic touch to your home decor.
“Caring for poinsettias is very easy. They love bright, indirect light, so they should be placed near a window, but not in direct sunlight.”
He says to water them when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be careful not to overwater. “These beautiful plants don’t like to be in soggy soil.
“Also, keep them away from drafts and direct heat sources, which can cause their leaves to fall prematurely.”
5. Kalanchoe
Kalanchoes are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for something that’s eye-catching and easy to care for, Denyer suggests. “These succulents come in a range of warm, inviting colors, such as deep oranges and golden yellows, that can brighten up your space in the fall.”
“Their vibrant blooms are perfect for adding a cheerful touch to your home as the days get shorter.”
Kalanchoes are also low maintenance, Denyer notes. “They love bright, indirect light, so a sunny spot near a window is ideal.
“They are fairly drought tolerant, so you only need to water them when the soil feels dry – just be careful not to overwater them, as, like the plants mentioned above, they don’t like soggy soil.
“As well as being good looking and easy to care for, kalanchoes help keep indoor air fresh,” she adds. “They are a great way to add colour and life to a space with minimal effort.”
