indoor plants – Jellybeans in the City

As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, summer brings with it a perfect opportunity to breathe new life into your living spaces. The bright sun shining and a warmer feel to the air necessitate some changes to the rooms we inhabit, whether to create a serene oasis for relaxation or inject a burst of vibrant energy into your interiors.

Since Our Home opened its doors in 1997, it has been offering well-designed and affordable contemporary furniture, home decor, and accessories, to excite and inspire creativity in designing your home’s interiors.

If you’re of a mind for a change of scenery at your abode, do keep these tips in mind:

Lighten Up with Summer Colors. Embrace the season’s brightness by incorporating lighter, brighter colors into your decor palette. Opt for pastels, whites, and soft blues to create a fresh and airy atmosphere that reflects the essence of summer.

Bring in Fresh Flowers and Indoor Plants. Add a touch of nature to your indoor spaces with fresh flowers and indoor plants. Not only do they enhance aesthetics, but they also purify the air and infuse your home with vitality and beauty.

Update Soft Furnishings. Swap out heavy fabrics and dark hues for lighter, breezier textiles and summery patterns. Refresh your cushions, throws, and rugs with breathable materials like cotton and linen to create a comfortable and inviting environment.

Declutter and Simplify. Clear out the clutter and create a sense of space and serenity in your home. Streamline your belongings and organize your living areas to foster a calm and relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for summer.

Maximize Natural Light. Open up your curtains and let the sunshine in! Maximize natural light by removing heavy window treatments and trimming any foliage that obstructs sunlight. Brighten up your interiors and create a warm, welcoming ambiance that celebrates the beauty of summer.

Add Decorative Accents. Infuse your home with summer-inspired decorative accents that evoke a coastal vibe. Think beach-inspired artwork, seashell decor, and woven baskets to bring a touch of the seaside indoors and elevate your decor scheme.

Introduce Cooling Elements. Beat the city’s sweltering summer heat by incorporating cooling elements into your home decor. Invest in tabletop fans, lightweight curtains, and breathable fabrics to create a cool and comfortable environment that’s perfect for lounging and relaxation.

Now that you’re all set to spruce up your home for the summer, don’t miss Our Home SM Marikina’s 3-Day Sale from April 19-21! As you explore a wide selection of home furniture, decor, and accessories, you can enjoy savings of up to 80% off on great finds for your living room, bedroom, and dining room.

As an added bonus, SMAC and SMAC Prestige cardholders can enjoy an extra 10% off, while BDO Credit cardholders can avail of special installment offers with a minimum purchase requirement. With free assembly and complimentary interior design advice, Our Home SM Marikina has everything you need to create the home of your dreams this summer.

Be sure to head over to Our Home Marikina at the Ground Level of SM City Marikina or visit www.ourhome.ph to take advantage of these exclusive offers and give your home a welcome glowup for the season. Feel free to call Our Home’s personal shopper at +63 917 8208665 for personalized assistance.

Stay updated about Our Home’s offers and promos by following it on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok.

Sale details provided in a recent press release.

In the bustling city of Metro Manila, creating an urban oasis within the confines of your home is a delightful way to break a way from the drab and gray concrete jungle and reconnect with nature. Houseplants not only bring beauty and freshness but also provide a sense of tranquility and improved air quality.

However, taking care of houseplants in an urban environment requires some special considerations. City dwellers, keep these factors and tips in mind to successfully nurture and enjoy your indoor green companions.

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Urban Home

Consider the lighting conditions. Assess the natural light available in your home and choose plants accordingly. Low-light tolerant plants such as pothos or snake plants are suitable for shaded areas, while succulents and cacti thrive in bright, direct sunlight.
Account for space limitations. Opt for compact or vertical-growing plants that fit well in small living spaces. Look for hanging plants, trailing vines, or plants that can be placed on shelves or windowsills.
Assess maintenance requirements. Consider your lifestyle and available time for plant care. Choose plants that align with your commitment level, whether low-maintenance or more demanding.

Nurturing Houseplants in an Urban Setting

Adequate Lighting:

Maximize natural light. Position plants near windows to receive ample sunlight. Rotate plants regularly to ensure even growth.
Supplement with artificial light. If natural light is limited, invest in grow lights to provide the necessary light spectrum for plant growth.

Managing Humidity:

Increase humidity. In Manila’s dry climate, plants may suffer from low humidity levels. Grouping plants together, placing them on trays filled with pebbles and water, or using a humidifier can help create a more humid environment.
Mist plants. Regularly misting your plants with water can provide a temporary boost of humidity.

Watering:

Establish a watering routine. Different plants have varying water requirements. Learn about your plants’ specific needs and establish a consistent watering schedule. Typically, it’s best to water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Avoid overwatering. Ensure proper drainage for your pots and avoid letting plants sit in standing water, as it can lead to root rot.

Soil and Fertilization:

Choose well-draining soil. Use a high-quality potting mix that allows excess water to drain away while retaining enough moisture for the plants.
Fertilize appropriately. Feed your plants with a balanced liquid fertilizer according to their specific needs. Follow the recommended dosage and frequency, avoiding overfertilization, which can harm the plants.

Pests and Disease Management:

Regular inspection. Routinely check your plants for pests, such as spider mites or mealybugs. Early detection allows for prompt treatment.
Natural remedies and prevention. Utilize eco-friendly pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap. Practice good plant hygiene by regularly cleaning leaves and removing dead or decaying matter.

Creating a plant haven in your urban home in Metro Manila is an enriching experience that connects you with nature amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Embrace the therapeutic benefits and aesthetic beauty of greenery, transforming your urban dwelling into a serene sanctuary. Happy plant parenting in the vibrant heart of the city!

Pictures featured here were taken during visits to Green Pot & Shovel Garden, a plant nursery and one-stop gardening shop located at Lower Park, Greenmeadows Avenue, Quezon City. For inquiries, contact +63 925 7289981.

Know more about its offers and services by following Green Pot & Shovel Garden on Facebook.

Check out my previous posts about gardening and green spaces:

New to being a plantita? Keep these tips in mind

6 ways gardening may be good for you even in your post-pandemic era

Tag: indoor plants

Refresh your spaces for the summer at Our Home’s 3-Day Sale

Creating an urban oasis: Houseplant care tips for city dwellers

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Urban Home

Nurturing Houseplants in an Urban Setting