, , , ,

10 great ways to give your home an autumnal makeover!

 

There are some lovely trending ideas this Autumn and many of them can be easily incorporated into your home, to give it a welcoming and cosy seasonal look. This season’s colour palette comprises of all the warm autumnal colours including burnt orange, golden yellow and the essential trending shade of dark forest green.

 

The décor and theme for the season is definitely nature-inspired with the aim of bringing outdoors indoors! Following so many long months of the global pandemic, many people have realised the importance of nature for their well being and what better way to celebrate its beauty than embracing the gorgeous array of autumn shades?

 

Here we bring you 10 clever ways to give your home a fashionable new look for Autumn 2021.

1. Incorporate the autumn palette

floresy

There are so many glorious seasonal colours to use

 

In many rooms, simply swapping throws, rugs and cushions can successfully change the character of your home. If you want a more dramatic change, why not paint one of the walls in  your living room one of the trending colours? Muted terracotta brings a truly seasonal warmth to a room and sandstone gold softens the sharpness of some décor. The top trending shade of forest green is certainly dramatic and creates a wonderful cosy ambience, but can make a room feel much smaller.

 

2. Think colour!

 

‘Layering’ is the buzz word in interior design and this means choosing an assortment of different patterns for use in a room but in similar tones. This design idea works particularly well in a living room as it can inject seasonal colour into a neutral palette – a great example is an assortment of new cushions in various patterns all containing forest green – this will definitely inject a dramatic new feel to your room and can be emphasised with the addition of new lush indoor plants, candles and a throw.

 

3. Think texture!

 

Texture is really important this season and works well with the new bolder fashion colours. Natural textiles are important and can be introduced into a room with wool rugs, throws and cushion covers. Textured rugs for the floor in the season’s autumnal colours work really well too and as well as enhancing the autumnal character, will be great for bare feet on colder days too. 

4. Personalise your home

floresy

Antique treasures can be successfully combined with modern furniture

 

The pandemic has made many people stop and take stock of their lives and to realise what family items they really treasure. Family heirlooms have become very important to many and a clever mixture of old family heirlooms and contemporary pieces has started to appear. A single statement piece of antique furniture can sit comfortably alongside other contemporary pieces.

Silver is the trending metal this season, so there is plenty of opportunity to display old silver photographs, vases, candlesticks and ornaments.

 

5. Consider a statement piece of furniture

 

To help develop the autumnal colours in your rooms you can transform some old pieces of furniture by upcycling them and painting them in one of the season’s new colours. If you prefer you can transform old wooden chairs and tables by staining the wood.

 

6. Add a room divider

 

floresy

Stylish room dividers add character and flexibility to a room

The lockdown certainly made many of us adapt our homes so they could be multi-functional and able to accommodate people working remotely from home, children on distance learning and still provide a leisure area for different generations – quite a task! Many people found that room dividers were perfect for using in open plan spaces to create smaller personal areas and the trend is continuing this autumn. There are many different fold away room dividers on the market to suit all styles of rooms. Alternatively, you can use a single large piece of furniture such as a blanket chest or sideboard to create the divide.

 

Indoor plants have enjoyed a bumper year as they have been so fashionable and if you have the space, a long trough of indoor plants provides an ideal room divider that gives privacy, lets in light and is in the season’s popular colour of forest green! If you feel that you are absolutely hopeless where indoor plants are concerned, consider using artificial plants as they look so realistic and they are impossible to kill!

 

7. Transform your kitchen!

 

floresy

The latest styles for kitchens are rustic and characterful

After several years of sterile looking minimalistic kitchens, the new fashion statement is ‘cottage style’ which certainly has more character! Gone are the pristine white cupboards and these are replaced by darker cupboards in the colour of your choice or dark stained wood. White marble worktops are also being replaced with beautiful stone surfaces with more colour – but must still be kept totally clutter free! The latest ‘must haves’ include large statement wooden tables and attractive features such as old-fashioned scales complete with weights!

 

8. Give your bedroom a makeover!

 

Beautiful snowy white bed linen has been popular for a while now, but this Autumn is being given a softer touch with the addition of soft-coloured, textured cushions and throws and plenty of natural materials for accessories including bamboo and rattan as well as seagrass rugs.

 

Indoor plants and flowers are introducing a lovely natural theme in the bedroom, but choose plants with dark green foliage and white or neutral coloured flowers. Again, if you have problems caring for indoor plants, cheating by using beautiful artificial plants is definitely the winning way!

 

9. Introduce natural fabrics wherever possible

 

floresy

Tactile colourful soft furnishings in natural fibres are the perfect seasonal addition

Nothing beats the introduction of natural fabrics and materials to enhance this season’s nature -inspired fashions. The careful introduction of tactile natural fabrics such as bamboo, cane, sisal and jute can easily transform a room and give it the relaxed ambiance of the seaside on a sunny day which is perfect as winter draws in!

 

If you don’t want to introduce large pieces of furniture into your rooms or don’t have the space, smaller accessories such as lampshades, waste paper baskets and plant pot covers are all really cheap but can develop the theme well.

 

If you are embracing the natural theme, why not think about reducing your global footprint at the same time and scour charity shops, online market places and garage sales to find the perfect pieces second hand?

 

10. Indoor plants are the perfect addition!

 

Floresy

Beautiful indoor plants definitely bring nature into your home

 

2021 is proving a bumper year for indoor plants so why not introduce plenty to your home this autumn? Indoor plants are cheap, cheerful and the perfect way to bring life to a room or gloomy corner! Add a plant somewhere new like an empty kitchen windowsill, empty corner of the hallway, on the landing or in the bathroom. Choose the type of plants carefully so that they are the ideal species for your chosen spot. If you are adding plants to your kitchen, why not add a row to the windowsill? What better than an array of fresh herbs that you can quickly snip to add flavour to your meals?

 

This season, why not bring the outside inside? You will be delighted with the results!

 

 

 

, , , , ,

10 ways to add bamboo style to your home

 

Bamboo is proving a popular trend for interiors again in 2021 as it is inexpensive, simple to use, very stylish and eco-friendly. Bamboo evokes a natural feeling of summer on a tropical island and is instantly relaxing! No wonder it is popular! If you would like some inspiration on how to add bamboo style to your home, read on!

1. Clever ways with bamboo fencing.

 

Floresy

Bamboo adds a relaxed vibe to rooms

Bamboo fencing is great for the garden, but can also be used very effectively in the home, office areas and In your home, you can use a bamboo partition to divide your lounge and dining area, to introduce a luxurious ambiance and make an eye-catching focus. In the bathroom a bamboo partition can be used to separate the shower area or toilet. A bamboo partition can also be successfully used to divide a children’s bedroom to give them both their private space.

 

To achieve ‘the look’, the bamboo can be set in concrete in long plant troughs and when the concrete is dry, a layer of natural pebbles can be poured on top to conceal the concrete. Choose lighter coloured bamboo poles to lighten a darkly coloured area.

 

2. Invest in some bamboo blinds

 

To continue the island feeling evoked by bamboo, add some bamboo blinds to the windows or choose some curtains with bamboo-print fabric. If you are not overlooked you can make an innovative plant display out of three or four pieces of bamboo of the same length, with a piece cut out to fit a  small plant pot. The bamboo is then hung vertically at equal distances and suspended from just above your window. The holes can be filled with small trailing plants or fresh herbs.

 

3. Decorate a bare wall

 

A clever way to add character to a bare wall is to line it with bamboo as this will totally transform the room and there is something about bamboo that makes it very soothing. It is best to use split bamboo canes as these have one flat side which makes it easier to fix them to the wall. For a large area, bamboo panelling is very effective and can be used on the ceiling too. Bamboo comes in a variety of colours from light natural bamboo to shades of dark mahogany – your choice!

 

4. Add a bamboo framed mirror

floresy

Give mirrors, pictures and family photos a new look!

!Adding a large mirror to a plain wall always transforms the room as it reflects light, making the room brighter. You can buy such a mirror, but it is not difficult to use some split bamboo to make a frame and of course this works for wall pictures and photographs too.

 

5. Choose the perfect colour theme

 

Bamboo creates a natural feeling in any room and this is easy to mirror with your soft furnishings. Armchairs and sofas in cream, terracotta and green are perfect and cushions with palm tree designs or leafy patterns develop the theme. Watch out in charity shops, eBay and similar, for a large bamboo chair. This is the ideal choice and you will find it surprisingly light, sturdy and comfortable. Alternatively if you have a colour scheme you love in your home, get out the paintbrush and paint your bamboo to match!

6. Choose a bamboo coffee table

 

There are a variety of bamboo styles of tables that are perfect for your home or a waiting area at work. Some coffee tables have glass panels and others are made from slatted bamboo which is smooth enough for a tray of drinks.

7. Bamboo shelves are practical

 

Bamboo shelving is not only fashionable, but also very practical. You can find three and four tier shelf units and to keep things tidy, you can add natural woven or hessian baskets. The shelves will prove useful in any room in your home and your bamboo theme can be developed by dedicating one of the shelves to a display of seashells and driftwood.

8. Bamboo is perfect for towel rails

 

Bamboo is the perfect material for creating a versatile towel rail for use at home in your kitchen or bathroom or at work. The idea is simple and very practical. As well as traditional styled towel rails, the new ladder style works really well when space is tight. These are straight forward to make too –

9. Add some other bamboo accessories

 

There are plenty of bamboo products on the market because bamboo is environmentally friendly and is a sustainable crop. Amongst the accessories you will see are over-sized lampshades, stools and magazine racks. If you are adding a bamboo screen to your bedroom, a bamboo headboard will complement it perfectly. If you enjoy DIY projects, you will find some inspirational ideas online:   

10. A pot of bamboo for the finishing touch!

foresy

Bamboo trees come in a myriad of sizes

 

This year, indoor plants are big news and what better idea than adding a pot of bamboo to your home or office? You can buy small single bamboo shoots and several in a container can look good on a mantelpiece. You can get larger displays of several pieces of bamboo that are eye-catching for a desk or coffee table, but why not celebrate bamboo big time with a huge leafy tree? You can place your tree to add interest to a dull corner or as a dramatic feature and focus to your room.  

To ensure that your bamboo always looks in perfect condition and maintains its size and shape, why not choose a pot of artificial bamboo? A large pot of leafy bamboo will bring instant colour and life to any setting and looks perfect in one of this season’s natural textured or metallic pots. Why not give your home a new look, with the garden vibe of bamboo?

 

  • Next month we look at ways to use bamboo creatively outside in your garden – and its not just as a plant trellis! 

 

 

 

 

 

, , , ,

10 Clever ways to enjoy indoor plants in small spaces

Use every available space

Even if you are living in a modest-sized flat or house or working in a tiny office, with some creative thinking and smart ingenuity, you can make space for some flowers and indoor plants. If you do manage to find room for indoor plants you will be able to experience all the benefits that come with them. Indoor plants can lower stress levels and because they purify the air, if you have one in your bedroom, you will find yourself sleeping better too. We suggest 10 clever ways to have indoor plants in small spaces…

You will find several of our display ideas that will really work for you – which is great! Before you buy the indoor plants, it is worth assessing exactly which type of plant will be happiest in each location. Sometimes because of lack of space, you cannot offer the plant optimum growing conditions, so it is best to choose good-tempered, easy to care for plants. If you feel that the growing conditions will be a challenge to any indoor plant, why not opt for beautiful artificial plants? The secret to success is that if you are planning to display the plant in a place that is quite shadowed and gloomy, choose an artificial plant in a species that normally can thrive in such a spot and in doing this, friends and family will never suspect that your plant is artificial- clever thinking!

1. Create a living room divide

A fun way to divide up your living space is with a live living wall. This can be as simple as some garden trellis set into a large rectangular planter, Choose interesting plants with different coloured or textured foliage. Alternatively, you can hang plant covers on the intersections of the trellis and pop in a variety of interesting trailing plants.

2. Small tiered shelves

Cheer up bare walls with shelves of plants!

These are ideal when you don’t have too much space on a desk or shelf and are a fun way to display a collection of different plants. In the kitchen, this idea is perfect for displaying an array of herbs on the windowsill. The shelves look lovely in wood but are easy clean if they are in white plastic. The plants can either be in flowerpots with drainage sauces or in flowerpots popped in a pot cover. These can be in a uniform shape and colour, or an eclectic selection of different sizes and shapes in shades that mirror the colour scheme of the room

3. Baby succulents look great in tiny pots

A group of small terracotta pots each filled with a tiny succulent can look really cute. This year’s trending pot containers are glazed square plant containers, which work really well as they can easily slot next to each other to take up the minimum of space.

4. Hang a plant in a bird cage!

If you don’t have too much floor space, be creative and use the ceiling! A small metal bird cage filled with a leafy plant like a Spider Plant or Boston Fern looks really good and add colour to the room, you can paint the cage in a colour to match your chosen scheme.

5. Wall mounted looks great!

You can make your own wall planters by attaching rustic basket pot covers to squares of wood that you have painted with wood stain or in your chosen colour. Don’t forget to place plastic plant saucers in the bottom of the pot covers to ensure that no water runs down the wall when you water the plants. Another fun idea is to attach a section of garden trellis to your wall – either wood stained, or painted to complement your colour scheme. Clip planters containing a fun variety of plants on all the intersections of the trellis.

6. Add a row of hanging baskets!

Floresy

Hanging baskets can cheer up a bare wall and look great in front of windows

These can make an interesting feature if you have a large bare window. Suspend a collection of similar hanging baskets at different heights and fill each with an interesting leafy plant such as different ferns and a spider plant -if the window gets plenty of direct sunshine, choose your plants carefully.

7. Grow herbs on your kitchen door!

Use every available inch of space to enjoy your indoor plants! Use a lightweight plank of wood, cut to size and painted to match your colour scheme. Attach smart metal plant pot covers at regular intervals and pop in pots of fresh herbs – for fun, add luggage labels to each pot, describing each herb.

8. Buy some hanging glass planters

A row of stylish round glass planters instantly adds interest and colour to a dull wall! Hang the planters from the ceiling, just in front of the wall and fill them with good- tempered flowering plants such as kalanchoe or chose leafy plants with coloured or textured leaves.

9. Jazz up a dull corner!

Invest in a tiered corner unit and fill it with a variety of interesting and eye-catching plants..Choose your plants carefully so that they have different colours and textures to make your display look interesting. Display them all in pot covers that are in toning covers- but a variety of textures to add interest.

10. Add a terrarium

A large bottle containing a handful of plants can look really dynamic! You can buy some snazzy ready made ones that even have optional lighting and because of humidity they only need to be watered every couple of weeks. It is great fun to create your own terrarium and not as difficult as you think! Alternatively, you can grow several cacti or air plants in an opened topped bottle and these can look very dramatic.

https://www.kew.org/read-and-watch/how-to-make-terrarium

Whether you have a tiny office, cramped reception or small home, it is possible to add plants to your space – and you will definitely feel better for having done so!

, , , , , ,

The miniature world of Bonsai trees

Bonsai trees are growing in popularity. They first appeared 1,500 years in Ancient China where they were called ‘Penjing Trees’. The miniature trees were exchanged as gifts among the rich. Five hundred years later, Buddhist monks took the idea to Japan. The Japanese developed the art of cultivating and caring for Bonsai. Today the hobby is growing. People all over the world, are fascinated by the idea of owning such a beautiful type of tree and are discovering the magic of the miniature world of Bonsai trees.

F

The miniature world of Bonsai comprises of evergreen, deciduous and flowering trees

Bonsai is both the art and science of growing beautiful miniature trees and shrubs in ornamental pots. Bonsai trees come in many different varieties, some suitable for indoors and others outdoors like the Juniper Bonsai. There are evergreen and deciduous varieties and even flowering Bonsai. Some species such as the Ficus group are relatively easy to care for, whilst others are notoriously challenging.

Many plant enthusiasts are apprehensive about caring for a Bonsai tree, but it is not too complicated to master but can be time-consuming because the process involves nurturing the tree and keeping it in its miniature size while also making it as aesthetically appealing as possible by shaping it. There are fundamentals to master too, as the size and shape of the pot the tree is planted in, the level of humidity and temperature can each make a big difference.

Why are Bonsai trees so expensive?

All Bonsai trees are more expensive than other plants. Their larger price tickets reflect their rarity, the age of the Bonsai and how much expert care has been needed to nurture it  – and of course, there are transportation costs on top of this. If the Bonsai tree has been nursery grown, it is often not ready to sell until it is 6- 7 years old and many are much older and will have taken many hours of care by experts.

 

Older trees are more expensive because they look so spectacular with their gnarled and twisted trunks. At the top end of the price range are Yamadori Bonsai. These trees are ones that naturally grow in miniature in the wild, but are incredibly rare to find. The most expensive of all is the Japanese Pine – often up to 800 years in age and priced at over one million dollars. As well as buying the Bonsai, you will need to buy an array of miniature gardening tools and fertilisers.

 

Where can you display a Bonsai

 

In the last ten years, Bonsai trees have become popular around the world. Spot the Bonsai in hotel and company receptions and also on office desks. If you buy an outdoor variety, it can become a stunning focal point of your garden.

 

What care does a Bonsai need?

Floresy

Each Bonsai has so much character and history

Caring for a Bonsai can take years to master which is why many people find it so challenging and rewarding. The Bonsai will need regular watering and pruning as well as certain light conditions, levels of humidity and nutrition. Unexpected pests and disease can present problems too.

Taking care of a bonsai tree is different from attending to the needs of just about any other type of plant.  Bonsai owners are disciplined, well- organised and patient. Dedication to the idea of creating a beautiful miniature tree is key!

Are there certain Bonsai suitable for beginners?

Floresy

It is fun to create the perfect shape for your Bonsai

The best Bonsai for beginners is Ficus. This attractive indoor evergreen Bonsai has a thick knotted trunk and dark glossy leaves. Ficus is a tolerant and resilient Bonsai and can grow in spaces with low humidity. The Ficus is easy to shape and will forgive you if you forget to water it!

 

The Chinese Elm is another good choice as it is an attractive semi-evergreen with numerous small leaves that can be placed outside in the warmer months and can survive a frost. This Bonsai does need regular pruning, but it is easy to create and maintain an attractive shape. If you would like a deciduous Bonsai, a Japanese Red Maple or Cherry Bonsai are both good choices for beginners. For further inspiration about which Bonsai trees are best for beginners, log onto:

https://www.bonsaitreegardener.net/bonsai-trees/best-beginners

 

How can I have a Bonsai without all the effort?

 

Bonsai are always fascinating

Does having a Bonsai tree appeal? Do you feel that realistically you not have the ideal growing conditions or the time to dedicate to nurturing one? The perfect answer is to cheat a little! An artificial Bonsai trees is impossible to tell them from a real Bonsai! Why not enjoy discovering the miniature world of the Bonsai tree without a single fallen leaf?

 

 

 

, , , , ,

How to create the perfect reception area

First impressions really count! Your company, restaurant or hotel reception is the first place visitors see and it is important that it conveys the right message to them. Your reception should be attractive and welcoming and importantly, reflect your company’s unique character. The reception area should also project a feeling of professionalism and efficiency as well as trustworthiness. If you are planning a makeover for your reception area, think about the style that will suit you best. Our ideas tell you how to create the perfect reception area.

Extending a warm welcome

Floresy - plant design trends

How to create the perfect reception area – add a large indoor plant!

A welcoming reception area is important when you have a doctor’s surgery or dental practice and want to put your visitors at ease. This type of character for a reception works well for hotels too and any business where people matter and you want to establish a good relationship with them.

Choose warm, muted colours as these are more relaxing than stark and clinical white. Furniture should be comfortable too. If you choose fabric covered seating, make sure that the fabric is stain resistant so that it will be easy to keep them looking good. Add some relaxing touches such as paintings on the walls, lamps and plenty of  large leafy indoor plants.

A relaxing character

Floresy

A relaxing and calming design

Stylish reception areas with smart furniture, no clutter and the emphasis on natural materials are a popular style for beauty salons and spas. This style exudes serenity and zen and also works well for companies as it can prove both relaxing and inspirational. Soft muted colours such as cream, browns and greens all work well and are enhanced by soft  lighting. Mellow wooden furniture in a minimalistic style is ideal and large abstract wall paintings that mirror the colours of nature will also accentuate this style. Bring the outdoors inside with some extra large indoor plants or a dramatic wall display of numerous trailing plants. If you do not feel particularly ‘green fingered’, you can invest in some quality faux plants as the carefree alternative.

Exude luxury                                     

 

Floresy

use luxurious floral displays

If your company specialises in prestigious goods or your hotel or restaurant is appealing to those with plenty of money, your reception area needs to be very stylish and reassuring to your customers that are the elite and are going to get truly excellent service throughout.

Your style should be carefully chosen pieces of beautifully made, quality furniture such as a leather Chesterfield with some unusual accents in polished metal such as occasional tables or wall lights. Add drama to the area with bold colours and large painting. Mirror these in a large arrangement of beautiful fresh flowers.

Be dynamic in your style

Floresy

Your reception can have fun appeal too!

If your company style is fast moving, enthusiastic and trendy, this is a fun style to mirror in your reception area. Showcase your company’s colours with a feature wall in the main colour with either your logo or inspiring slogan. Seating and accessories should be in any other company colour. Furniture styles should be smart and in practical styles. Plenty of natural daylight is perfect, but if not, excellent lighting will prove practical and energising.

Changing the look of your reception area can be relatively easy and the three main points to focus on are to maximise on space, use colour effectively to help create your chosen style and thirdly, to ensure that your chosen lighting is of the right style and in the right location. Your bright new reception area is definitely the best way to define your company’s character – along with a warm personal welcome to everyone who steps through the door.

For further inspiration, take a look at –

● http://www.smbceo.com/2016/11/29/how-to-choose-the-right-furniture-for-your-office-reception-area/

 

 

, , ,

10 great ways to display your indoor plants

Indoor plants are the perfect addition to your home as they can make any space look luxurious and transform it into an attractive leafy oasis. How you display your indoor plants is important as this will affect their dramatic impact. If you have plenty of space, adding indoor plants to decorate it is easy, but if space is limited, there are some ingenious ways to display them to add character to your rooms. Here are our clever ideas for 10 great ways to display indoor plants.

1. Use wall planters

Floresy

Use wall space to display plants

If floor space is limited, a great alternative is to hang planters on the wall to display your indoor plants. One large planter with a beautiful trailing ivy looks lovely or you can complement the ivy by grouping it with a pretty wall mirror and large sun hat.

Alternatively, you can choose a group of smaller wall planters that are in the same or toning colours. White always looks good, but a shade that emphasises the colour scheme of the room also works well. The perfect choice of indoor plants for wall hangers are a variety of succulents or plants with different coloured foliage such as crotons and leopard lilies as these add interest.

2. Wall shelves are perfect too

Instead of arranging your books on your wall shelves, why not use a variety of indoor plants or a mixture of both to create an interesting display? Choosing plant pots in the same colour, but different shapes and sizes looks really cool. A selection of pots in different styles of wicker or textured metal looks really stylish.

3. Hang a plant from the ceiling!

foresy

one of the great ways to display your indoor plants

A huge Boston or Maidenhair fern in a hanging basket always introduces a ‘wow’ factor to a space. The hanging basket needs to be in a light spot, but away from direct sunlight. A regular misting will help keep your fern looking good. If you want an easier indoor plant to care for, a large spider plant will look equally good.

If you hunt carefully, you may find some really stylish hanging mini-glass terrariums. Three of these, suspended in a group at different heights or in a straight line, can look both innovative and stylish.

As with all our ideas, if you do not have the time to dedicate to carrying for indoor plants, why not invest in a beautiful artificial fern or other trailing plant as it will look so realistic, will be regularly admired and save you all the effort.

4. Cheer up your staircase!

If your staircase is wide enough and in light position, why not add an indoor plant to the side of each step for fun? Good tempered succulents work well as you need to choose plants that grow upwards and do not trail. To add colour, Kalanchoe and African violets with their colourful flowers will look good. If you prefer, you can select a variety of leafy plants with foliage of different colours.

5. Jazz up all your rooms with plants

Floresy

Add style to your kitchen

Bathrooms can be transformed into a gorgeous oasis by plants to the windowsill, on shelves or if space is tight- hanging from the ceiling. Check plant labels for the best choices as the atmosphere in the bathroom is regularly warm and humid. Pothos, calathea, ferns and Aloe Vera are all good choices.

Good tempered indoor plants can add style to the kitchen too – especially as they can be used to complement the current minimalist style perfectly.

Bedrooms can benefit from the addition of some plants and of course, they are healthy to have as they replace carbon dioxide with oxygen. 

6.  Add drama to your living room

If you have the space, one really large indoor plant can look dramatic in your living room. As well as choosing a large and suitable indoor plant for your space, care must be taken to buy the correct decorative plant pot. Ideally, the pot needs to complement the décor and character of your room, but also it needs to complement your chosen plant and accentuate the beauty and colour of its leaves. Dragon tree, Birds of Paradise, Swiss cheese plant) and even olive trees are all large plants/ indoor trees that will make certainly a statement and add  character to your room!

7. Use plant stands for extra style

If you have a corner that needs decorating, why not add three or four different indoor plants and use matching plant stands in different heights to add interest to your display. Snake plants, Yucca and Peace Lilies are all good choices. Simply styled plant stands in metal will accentuate the beauty of your plants and not detract from them – which is ideal.

8. Or add a small step ladder!

Floresy

Be clever with plant displays

You may well be able to find a three/four step ladder with broad enough steps to take plant pots, books and anything else. This type of display looks really good when placed at an angle in the corner of the room and will give you a surprising amount of storage space – with indoor plants of course added too! If you prefer, you can use the steps just for displaying all your houseplants and this can be equally eye-catching.  . 

9. Use indoor plants to add interest to hallways

Unfortunately, hallways often become a general dumping ground for coats and footwear. Why not have a big tidy up and add some style to the area? A long wooden trough on legs placed against the wall and will look really attractive with a few tall leafy plants in different colours and textures. If you have space, a bar trolley is another display option. If the hallway is a little dark for plants to thrive, artificial plants could be the perfect solution.

10. Have fun with your plants!

Floresy

Be crafty with plant pots!

If you don’t want to splash out on new plant pot containers, or feel like doing something completely

different and slightly wacky, indoor plants can be displayed in many different types of containers which can certainly add fun! In Greece and other countries, outdoor geraniums are often potted up and displayed in olive oil canisters.

Taking this idea a stage further, you can use clean old food cans as a plant display on the kitchen window sill – if you love baked beans, why not tell the world! Another classic for the kitchen is a teapot on the windowsill containing a pretty leafy plant. A large beer stein filled with a spider plant looks fun in the living room as does a large model of your favourite classic car filled with an elegant leafy plant.

There are just so many ways to display your indoor plants so that they are real features in your home. Displaying them with care, using clever and original ideas that accentuate the beauty of each plant, will really add to the style and character of your home. For more information, log onto- 

https://balconygardenweb.com/99-great-ideas-to-display-houseplants-indoor-plants-decoration/

, ,

Be dramatic! Add a tree to your space!

Big really can be beautiful! Large indoor trees with their lush green foliage just cannot be beaten as the perfect way to change the whole look and character of a room instantly. Installing a tree in your reception area, restaurant or office space is like adding a large piece of furniture or a painting as it definitely makes a bold statement. It can also define the look of the space and become an interesting focal point.  Introducing a large indoor tree into your space links it to the beautiful natural world outside. So why not be dramatic? Add a tree to your space?

Popular indoor trees

 

If you like the idea of an indoor tree, it is best to consider its location before               

Be dramatic add a tree to your space plants

The Swiss Cheese Plant is an ideal low maintenance choice

you buy to ensure that the tree will be well-suited. It is a good idea to assess how much natural light your tree will enjoy. Most plants need bright spaces but no direct sunlight. Another important consideration is whether your chosen tree will need a humid environment. If the answer is ‘yes’ this will involve regular misting during the warmer months.

 

There are a wide variety of popular indoor plants that be bought in much larger ‘tree’ sizes measuring several metres in height. Some of them like Rubber plants (Ficus roberta) and Swiss Cheese Plants (Monstera deliciosa) are low maintenance and grow easily. Kentia Palms (Howea forsteriana) and the various different types of fig trees are other good choices. If you buy one of these, it is a good idea to transplant it into a much larger pot before settling it into its new home.

 

If your chosen position for a plant has plenty of sunlight, a citrus tree could be a fun choice and an olive tree will certainly create a lovely Mediterranean ambiance. The Karaka tree from New Zealand is another tree to consider, but this one will need a minimum temperature of 20ºC all year round. There are many different species to choose from. Be dramatic! Add a tree to your space that suits both your style and  the room you have available. The most popular indoor trees are shown here for inspiration: https://blog.mytastefulspace.com/2020/04/01/tall-indoor-plants/

 

 

Consider buying an artificial tree

 

Be dramatic add a tree to your space

An indoor tree is an ideal focal point

Real trees can of course take years to grow and many of them do need care and maintenance.If you want to add a tree to your space quickly, the popular alternative is a really good quality artificial tree. The trees are manufactured in an array of different sizes and styles. They are the perfect choice if you feel that a live tree might not get the TLC it deserves. You may want to give your space a makeover and need a sizable and beautiful indoor tree to complete the new look instantly.

With an artificial tree, you can think exotic! Bamboo is trending this year and a display of artificial bamboo is the perfect way to brighten a dull corner or create a little privacy in a restaurant. An artificial banana tree certainly adds interest to an office space or reception area. These looks so realistic that customers will be waiting for your tree to fruit! 

If you would like something more traditional, the laurel ball tree  and the double laurel ball tree both add style and interest to entrances and reception areas. Leafy Lady Schefflera Trees really help bring nature indoors and others in our range of artificial trees include wisteria, palm trees, Ficus and the Pachira Tree with its distinctive braided trunk.  All of our artificial trees are perfect for adding a ‘wow’ factor to your space and will enhance earthy colours or brighter palettes. The clever trick is to choose a tree that could naturally thrive in your chosen space.  Choosing your tree carefully will make it seem truly authentic.

When big means huge!

 

Does your creative side feels that a really large tree is needed for your restaurant? Do you think your guests would love to dine

Be dramatic add a tree to your space

An artificial tree gives your space impact without extra work

under a leafy canopy? Do you want your reception desk under an olive tree? Be dramatic! Add a tree to your space! You will be delighted to learn that both ideas are totally achievable! We have our own made-to-measure tree service and can create the most beautiful tree to your own specifications! The trees are carefully moulded so that they have authentic textures. We are happy to create the tree of your choice – Oak, Acer, Baobab to name just a few.

The only way you will know that one of our trees is faux is to touch its leaves. The trees are created by craftsmen and fully protected so that their colours do not fade over time. Artificial trees are easy to maintain all year through.  Artificial trees always look good…and just to tempt you, they are the ideal option for using indoors or out….

 

,

Aspirins for healthy indoor plants

For many years there has been an old wives’ tale that popping an aspirin in a vase of cut flowers helps to prolong their life. In recent years, it has been found that giving aspirins regularly to plants in various situations really is effective and we reveal that aspirins for healthy indoor plants isn’t a fallacy after all!

Trying to maintain healthy indoor plants can be a challenge, especially if they are always ‘on show’ to customers and guests such as in a reception area or restaurant. Of course, indoor plants are not always cared for properly in a busy office environment and can suffer badly from neglect. Luckily aspirins can prove to be life savers in all these situations!

How do aspirins work?

Aspirins for healthy indoor plants

Aspirins are a wonder med for indoor plants

Aspirins contain acetylsalicylic acid which helps boosts the plant’s immune system so that it can effectively fight pests, disease and physical damage – such as re-potting or taking a cutting. Indoor plants can even become stressed when you move them to a new environment. Aspirins can rejuvenate even badly neglected plants

Acetylsalic acid is the active ingredient in aspirin.  This acid is derived from salicylic acid, found naturally in the bark of white willow (Salix alba). The acid is effective on plants because many plants produce it themselves in tiny amounts. Plants produce this acid when stressed or fighting disease. Feeding them a greater supply of the acid proves beneficial. Giving the plant too much aspirin can                                                                   have a negative effect as it can burn its leaves.

How should I use aspirin on indoor plants

Asprins for healthy indoor plants

Lightly spray every three weeks

Buy normal strength aspirin for your plants. The ratio needed for indoor plants is one aspirin to every 4.5 litres of water (one gallon). Crush the aspirin carefully using a pestle and mortar and mix it into the water. Pour the water into a spray bottle and add 2-3 drops of mild dishwasher liquid. Shake the contents well to mix before using. It may sound strange to add the dishwasher liquid but this is so that the water sticks to the plant and does not just run off.

Apply this solution every three weeks for the best results. There are several benefits for regularly using aspirin as it helps protect the plant against aphids and also promotes new growth in the plant.

Always give your indoor plants the aspirin treatment if you notice that their leaves are dropping or they have changed appearance with paler leaves and flowers. Aspirin is a good treatment to use if the plant develops an infection.

Give aspirin to your cut flowers

aspirins for healthy indoor plants

Prolong the life of cut flowers

Simply pop an aspirin in the bottom of your vase. Fill the vase with water and stir well to dissolve the aspirin. Arrange your bunch of flowers in the vase. You will find that the aspirin will keep the flowers looking good and that they will last longer.

 

Aspirin have uses in the garden too

aspirins for healthy indoor plants

Speed up germination

As well as keeping your indoor plants in good condition, aspirin can be used in the garden too. If you are germinating trays of seeds, watering them with the same strength aspirin solution (one aspirin to 4.5 litres of water) every three weeks will prove beneficial. Feeding seeds with aspirin accelerates their growth and makes them stronger and more resistant to disease. Some gardeners declare that their germination success using aspirin increases to 95-100%.

If you have a vegetable patch, you will find that giving the plants a regular aspirin treatment will work wonders! The plants will develop more quickly and produce more vegetables/ fruit. The aspirin treatment can be used throughout the growing season and is particularly beneficial to tomatoes, aubergine (eggplant), cucumber, peppers and potatoes.

https://diyeverywhere.com/2017/05/31/7-brilliant-reasons-to-use-aspirin-in-the-garden/

 

It is definitely beneficial to always have some aspirins at the ready. Unfortunately, although using aspirin is a really good hack, they cannot always work wonders on indoor plants. Are your plants are struggling as they are not in the ideal location or do not have the correct light? If you want plants to always look in tip-top condition, investing in top quality faux plants is definitely the perfect solution!