The cold winter months of the year (especially right after the Christmas holidays) can be a disappointment. Many feel that disappointment is the direct result of ending an exciting and fun-filled vacation and returning to the less exciting “norm.” I’m sure there’s a lot of truth to that thought, but another factor is also responsible for the waning enthusiasm. The separation of gardening and just being outside in the fresh air and nice sunlight is also partly responsible. At least it is for me.
I admit to daydreaming about warm sunny days where every time I leave (or return to) the house, I am greeted with sweet fragrances of flowering shrubs and patches of vivid color. I remember picking sun-warmed tomatoes to eat fresh and cutting bunches of lavender to adorn my kitchen table. I remember waking up at dawn to the sound of a dozen birds singing their greetings to each other.
Back to reality. It is winter now. Dawn comes much later than on midsummer days and there are no happy birds singing to welcome the new day. There are also no fragrant bushes or blooming flowers. Instead, there are plenty of gloomy skies and snow-covered backyards. It’s the perfect recipe for a winter disappointment.
There are, however, ways to combat winter’s offense. Plants, in all their varieties, offer a great improvement, both psychological and physical. It is a proven fact that plants can help remove dirty air from the environment.
When temperatures drop and homes need furnaces to run for a good part of the day and night, the air can become stale and even unhealthy. Plants are a great way to combat this problem.
Because plant maintenance within a home environment is often quite different from what is required for their survival outdoors, it helps to know which plants are hardier. All plants require an adequate amount of light, water, soil nutrients, and a correct temperature range. Some, however, will accept much more latitude in their requirements. The following plants are hardy enough for almost anyone to care for.
1. Snake plant (Sansevieria) has long, spiky leaves that can reach up to 4 feet. high.
2. Aglaoenema: This plant grows well in low light conditions.
3. Drecaena – This is a very tough, slow-growing plant with large leaves
4. Pothos Vine – These come in a variety of yellowish or dark green leaves. Resistant.
5. Philodendron – These can come in an upright or vine-like variety.
6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is very hardy and known for its ability to clean the air.
7. Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium): The leaves are shaped like arrowheads, hence the name.
8. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia) This plant is charming and distinctive, but also poisonous.
9. Palm – Many varieties of which can be effectively grown indoors i.e. bamboo.
10. Jade Plant: Needs a fair amount of light but is drought tolerant.
Choose from one of these (or many other varieties) to clean the air in your home and brighten your disposition in the process. Be sure to avoid the fool cane if you have small children.
