So you\u2019re looking to add more plants to your home, and you\u2019re not sure where to get started.<\/p>\n
What type of plants are low-maintenance?<\/p>\n
What plants can thrive in Singapore\u2019s climate?<\/p>\n
Where should you go to buy your plants?<\/p>\n
In this guide, we\u2019ll answer all those questions, and more.<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s jump right in!<\/p>\n
There are a ton of benefits that come along with having plants in your home. For instance:<\/p>\n
Firstly, plants are natural air purifiers – they filter out toxins and pollutants from the air, and create a healthier living environment.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18597″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n
Some plants, such as snake plants and spider plants, are particularly effective at removing common indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene.<\/p>\n
Next, plants can also help to boost your mood.<\/p>\n
Studies have shown that being around plants can have a positive impact on your mood and mental health. Plants can help reduce stress levels, improve cognitive function, and even alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.<\/p>\n
Next, plants help to improve indoor humidity as well.<\/p>\n
Yes, we know that it\u2019s humid enough in Singapore – but what about all the folks who keep their windows closed and blast their air-conditioning for the entire day?<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re heavily reliant on air-conditioning, this means the air in your home is probably dry. Here, plants can help improve indoor humidity levels by releasing moisture into the air through a process called transpiration.<\/p>\n
Next, plants may also help to increase productivity.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18596″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n
This might sound too good to be true, but research shows that workers in offices with plants are more productive, take fewer sick days, and report feeling happier and more energized at work.<\/p>\n
Finally, plants help to add natural beauty to your decor.<\/p>\n
One of the most obvious benefits of having plants in your home is the natural beauty and aesthetic appeal they can bring to your living space.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s no denying it – having some greenery in your home livens up the entire space, and makes it feel more cozy.<\/p>\n
When choosing plants for your home, it’s important to consider the lighting and temperature conditions of your living space.<\/p>\n
Different plants have different needs when it comes to light and temperature, and selecting the right plants for your home’s unique environment can help ensure their long-term health and survival.<\/p>\n
First, lighting is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting plants for your home.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18591″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n
Some plants require direct sunlight to thrive, while others prefer indirect or low-light conditions.<\/p>\n
If your home receives plenty of natural light, or you have a balcony<\/a> where you can house your plants, you may want to consider plants like snake plants, pothos, or spider plants that can handle direct sunlight.<\/p>\n If your home has limited natural light and you don\u2019t have a balcony, you may want to consider plants like peace lilies or ZZ plants that can thrive in low-light conditions. These plants are often recommended for bathrooms, basements, or other areas of the home that may not receive much natural light.<\/p>\n Temperature is another important factor to consider when selecting plants for your home.<\/p>\n Some plants thrive in warm, humid environments, while others prefer cooler, drier conditions.<\/p>\n Since you\u2019re living in Singapore where it\u2019s humid all-year round, consider plants like Alocasia and Philodendron – these thrive in warm, humid conditions.<\/p>\n Running in the same vein, we recommend steering clear of plants that are more suited to colder climates (examples include lavender, and many types of flowers such as peonies, lilacs, etc).<\/p>\n Plants can be incorporated into your home decor in many different ways, from placing them on shelves or tabletops to hanging them from the ceiling or walls.<\/p>\n Firstly, one of the easiest ways to incorporate plants into your home decor is by placing them on shelves<\/a> or tabletops.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18593″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n You can use a mix of small and large plants to create a layered effect, or group plants together for a more cohesive look. You can also use different types of planters<\/a>, such as ceramic pots<\/a>, glass terrariums, or woven baskets, to add visual interest.<\/p>\n Next, another fun way of housing your plants is to hang them from the ceiling or walls.<\/p>\n Here, you can use macrame plant hangers, wire baskets, or wall-mounted planters to add greenery to your space. Hanging plants can be especially effective in rooms with limited floor space, such as bathrooms or small bedrooms.<\/p>\n Finally, consider using unique planters or baskets to complement your existing decor.<\/p>\n For example, if you have a bohemian-style living room, you could use woven baskets or brightly colored ceramic pots to hold your plants. If your decor is more minimalist, you might opt for simple white or black planters.<\/p>\n Singapore’s limited living space means that many homeowners have to get creative when it comes to incorporating plants into their homes.<\/p>\n One popular trend is vertical gardening, where plants are grown on vertical structures like trellises<\/a> or living walls.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18590″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n If you\u2019re wondering what a living wall is, this is essentially a vertical garden made up of a series of plants that are grown in a modular system attached to a wall. These walls can vary in size, from small installations in homes to large-scale installations in public spaces.<\/p>\n The caveat? Living walls can be quite expensive to install as they require specialized materials, irrigation systems, and maintenance.<\/p>\n Additionally, if you\u2019re planning to get someone to help you maintain the living wall, the cost can add up over time.<\/p>\n However, there are options for DIY living walls that can be more affordable, such as using modular systems or building a simple trellis with climbing plants (just do a Google search for more information).<\/p>\n And as for how easy it is to upkeep vertical gardens, it all depends on the type of plants you use.<\/p>\n If you build a trellis with low-maintenance plants that are easy to take care of (more on this in the next section!), then your vertical garden will be easy to maintain.<\/p>\n If you don\u2019t have the best track record with plants (or if you\u2019re a complete beginner!), start here.<\/p>\n These plants are low-maintenance, easy to care for, and hardy:<\/p>\n Firstly, there\u2019s the snake plant (this is also known as Mother-in-law’s Tongue because of their long, pointed leaves that resemble a tongue.)<\/p>\n You\u2019ll definitely recognize this plant by sight even if you don\u2019t recognize it by its name – it\u2019s basically the <\/i>plant that everyone gets when they move into their BTO flat and start adulting.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18601″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n And here\u2019s the thing about this plant – it\u2019s really hardy.<\/p>\n Snake plants can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, from low to bright, indirect light, and they can also survive on a wide range of temperatures, including both dry and humid conditions.<\/p>\n Plus, snake plants require minimal watering. They can be watered every two to three weeks – so even if you\u2019re off holidaying in Paris, you won\u2019t come home to a dead plant on your hands \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n Finally, snake plants propagate easily from cuttings, so if you already know someone who has this plant, just ask them for a cutting.<\/p>\n Next, there\u2019s the money plant, which is another highly popular plant for beginners.<\/p>\n These plants are really pretty – their leaves are heart-shaped and glossy, and depending on the variety you have, they may either be green and yellow, or green and white.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18602″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n Like snake plants, money plants can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions and temperatures.<\/p>\n The plant can also be grown in water, making it an ideal choice for those who don’t want to deal with soil or potting mix. To do this, simply place the cutting or the entire plant in a vase or jar filled with water, making sure that the roots are submerged. Change the water every two weeks to prevent the water from becoming stagnant.<\/p>\n Because money plants are so easy to propagate, you can just keep creating new plants from your OG plant. Just cut a stem with a few leaves and root it in water or soil, and soon you will have a new plant!<\/p>\n Finally, spider plants are really low-maintenance as well.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18600″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n The plant gets its name from the long, thin leaves that resemble spider legs. The leaves can be green or variegated with white or yellow stripes.<\/p>\n And like the previous two plants we discussed, spider plants aren\u2019t fussy when it comes to lighting and temperatures – they can survive in a wide range of conditions.<\/p>\n Spider plants can grow up to 60cm long, so you can display them on shelves, tabletops, or in hanging baskets – they\u2019ll create a beautiful cascading effect with their long, thin leaves.<\/p>\n If you’re looking to make a bold statement with your plant decor, consider investing in a large, statement plant. Here are a few ideas:<\/p>\n Firstly, the fiddle leaf fig has become a staple in many modern homes due to its large, glossy leaves and striking silhouette.<\/p>\n This plant can grow up to 180cm tall. and can add a touch of drama and sophistication to any room.<\/p>\n It’s important to note, however, that the fiddle leaf fig can be quite finicky and requires some TLC (tender loving care) to thrive. We\u2019d recommend this for folks who have some experience in taking care of plants, but you might want to choose something else if you\u2019re a complete beginner.<\/p>\n Next we have\u2026 the Monstera!<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18599″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”][\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n This is a tropical plant that\u2019s commonly found in Singapore, and across Southeast Asia.<\/p>\n The Areca Palm features long, feathery fronds and can grow up to 180cm tall.<\/p>\n It’s a pretty versatile plant that would look good in multiple homes, but if you happen to be going for a colonial vibe, the Areca palm is perfect for that.<\/p>\n Fun fact: the palm was popular during British colonial times and was often planted in gardens and parks in Singapore, as a symbol of luxury and status.<\/p>\n So you\u2019ve got your plants, you\u2019re super excited to become a plant mama (or plant dad), buuut then your plants start looking like they\u2019re not doing so well.<\/p>\n What\u2019s the problem? Are you overwatering them? Are you underwatering them?<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how to find out:<\/p>\n Firstly, checking the moisture level of the soil is one of the most reliable ways to determine if you’re underwatering or overwatering your plant.<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_image image=”18594″ image_size=”full” frame=”noframe” caption_pos=”below” remove_rounded=”yes” fullwidth=”no” overflow_mode=”none” link_target=”_self” lightbox=”no” intro_animation=”none” animation_delay=”200″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n To do this, stick your finger about an inch into the soil.<\/p>\n If the soil feels dry or barely moist, it may be a sign that you’re not watering the plant enough. If the soil feels consistently wet or waterlogged, it may be a sign that you’re overwatering the plant.<\/p>\n Of course, do take note that different plant species have different watering needs. Some plants prefer consistently moist soil, while others prefer to dry out slightly between waterings.<\/p>\n For example, if you have a cactus with dry soil, that\u2019s totally fine – here, dry soil doesn\u2019t necessarily mean that your cactus is underwatered!<\/p>\n Soil moisture aside, pay attention to the plant\u2019s leaves.<\/p>\n If the leaves are drooping or wilting, it may be a sign that the plant is not getting enough water. The leaves may also be dry and brittle to the touch.<\/p>\n If the leaves are yellowing or developing brown spots, it may be a sign of overwatering. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, which can prevent the plant from taking up water and nutrients properly.<\/p>\n Finally, check your plant\u2019s drainage as well.<\/p>\n Proper drainage is essential for healthy plants, and it can also help you determine if you’re overwatering your plant.<\/p>\n If you notice excess water pooling in the saucer or container beneath the plant, it may be a sign that you’re overwatering the plant. It’s important to empty any excess water from the saucer after watering to prevent the roots from sitting in standing water.<\/p>\n Ever heard of bottom watering before?<\/p>\n The technique is pretty self-explanatory: you water your plants from the bottom. Basically, you let your plants sit in a tray of water, and suck up all the water they need.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re not sure if you\u2019re overwatering or underwatering your plant, bottom watering is a helpful technique, because it allows the roots to soak up water from the bottom of the pot, rather than from the top.<\/p>\n When you water your plant from the top, the water can easily run off the surface of the soil and drain out the bottom of the pot, without reaching the roots. This can create pockets of dry soil, which can lead to underwatering. But with bottom watering, there\u2019s no such problem!<\/p>\n With bottom watering, you fill a tray or saucer with water and place the plant pot in the tray, allowing the water to be absorbed from the bottom.<\/p>\n This ensures that the water reaches the roots – like we\u2019ve just mentioned, this prevents underwatering. At the same time, bottom watering also helps to prevent overwatering by allowing the plant to absorb only the water it needs. If there\u2019s any excess water, it can simply be discarded from the tray or saucer after the plant has had a chance to absorb what it needs.<\/p>\n Now that you\u2019ve reached the end of this article, you\u2019re practically an expert on plants! \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n It may be intimidating to get a bunch of plants if you\u2019ve never done so before, but don\u2019t worry.<\/p>\n Start from the low-maintenance plants like Snake Plant, Money Plant, and Spider Plant – those are beginner-friendly and really hard to kill.<\/p>\n Once you\u2019re a bit more familiar with how plants work, and have more confidence, then start shopping around and adding more plants to your collection.<\/p>\n All the best!<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [spb_divider type=”thin” text=”Go to top” top_margin=”0px” bottom_margin=”30px” fullwidth=”no” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n Want to check out home renovation projects for more inspiration? Browse houseplant design ideas<\/a> on Hometrust, or click the button below to get connected with expert designers!<\/p>\n[\/spb_text_block] [\/spb_row] [spb_boxed_content type=”whitestroke” custom_bg_colour=”#f2f2f2″ box_link_target=”_self” padding_vertical=”4″ padding_horizontal=”5″ width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\n If you are reading this, you are probably wondering how you can create your dream home.<\/p>\nIncorporate Plants Into Your Existing Decor<\/h2>\n
Sembawang Cres ($29,000) by Homies Design
\n<\/a><\/h6>\n[\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\nExperiment With Vertical Gardens<\/h2>\n
289D Punggol Place ($100,000) by Elysian Design Studio
\n<\/a><\/h6>\n[\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\nPlants To Buy: Low-Maintenance Plants<\/h2>\n
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Plants To Buy: Statement Plants<\/h2>\n
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Underwatering? Overwatering?<\/h2>\n
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95 Dawson Road ($35,770) by Livspace
\n<\/a><\/h6>\n[\/spb_image] [spb_text_block animation=”none” animation_delay=”0″ simplified_controls=”yes” custom_css_percentage=”no” padding_vertical=”0″ padding_horizontal=”0″ margin_vertical=”0″ custom_css=”margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;” border_size=”0″ border_styling_global=”default” width=”1\/1″ el_position=”first last”]\nBottom Watering: A New Watering Technique To Try<\/h2>\n
A final word on decorating with plants<\/h2>\n
Renovating soon? Let Hometrust recommend the best interior designers.<\/strong><\/h2>\n