January is National Houseplant Month

Thank you to member, Leslie Kimball, for providing this tip of the month! 

January is National Houseplant Month – and specifically, January 10th is Houseplant Appreciation Day. 

For many, January is a month of setting new intentions and goals for growth. What better way to begin a new year than caring for a houseplant (or a dozen!). Indoor plants have many benefits – they’re a natural air purifier, they’re therapeutic, they add aesthetic pleasure, and they improve psychological wellbeing. Consider setting aside a little time (20 minutes to 2 hours) to start caring for a houseplant or reinvest in the houseplants you already own.

If you’re a beginner and you are worried about your ability to care for a plant - fret not. You’ve got this! When buying a new plant, consider if your window gets a lot of sun, or mainly shade.  For under $20, you can pick up a moisture meter (this one is my favorite ) and an inexpensive houseplant, and you’re all set. The moisture meter will eliminate any doubts about when your new plant is thirsty, and you’ll quickly find a good rhythm of when to water it. 

If you have a bit more experience with houseplants, you know January means plants require a little less water but need more humidity since the air is so dry. If you don’t have a humidifier for your plants consider giving them one as a new year’s gift. They’ll thank you! Here’s a suggestion for a humidifier but there are lots of options for all price points. 

January is a great time to care for the plants you have by cleaning their pots, adding fresh soil, and giving all the leaves a good cleaning. You could pick up a pair of leave cleaning gloves to give your plants better airflow.  

More advanced plant folks could also consider adding some new winter blooming plants to your collection.

Here are some stores to consider when looking for new houseplants and/or supporting items:

• American Plant– terrific customer service and terrific selection; local small business; 2 stores close by at 5258 River Road and 7405 River Road, Bethesda
• Trader Joes– houseplants are quite reliable and healthy, limited selection 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC
• Home Depot– inexpensive options; hit or miss; good selection of smaller pots  7111 Westlake Terrace, Bethesda

Happy house-planting for the new year! 


(Image credit: Vadim Kaipov/Unsplash - https://www.homesandgardens.com/advice/best-winter-house-plants)