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9: Pothos

Pothos is a type of tropical evergreen vine that belongs to the family Araceae and also known by its Latin name Epipremnum aureum. It is native to the Solomon Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean. This plant is praised for its hardy nature and fast growth rate, making it a great option for beginner gardeners.

a pencil sketch of a pothos plant

Pothos has unique heart-shaped leaves that come in different shades of green, ranging from light to dark. Additionally, some cultivars of the plant have white or yellow variegation on their leaves. This makes pothos a popular choice for indoor plants as they can add unexpected pops of color to a space. The plant is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it an excellent for indoors.

Pothos usually does not require rigorous care, making it an ideal plant for busy individuals or those who are just starting to enter the world of gardening. It prefers indirect light, but can also grow well in low light conditions. The plant thrives in soil that is kept moist, but does not require frequent watering. Over-watering the plant can lead to root rot, and under-watering can cause the leaves to wither. Therefore, it is essential to find a balance in watering the plant.

Propagation of pothos is also relatively simple. It can be propagated by rooting stem cuttings in water or soil. Once the roots have developed, it can be transplanted into a pot or directly to the ground. In addition, pothos can also be propagated through division. By separating the rootball, new plants can be created.

In summary, pothos is a hardy and fast-growing plant that is perfect for beginner gardeners or those who are looking for low-maintenance indoor plants. Its heart-shaped leaves are attractive and come in varying shades of green, making it an excellent decorative addition to any indoor space. It also has air-purifying properties that can benefit indoor air quality. With its ease of care, propagation, and versatility, it is no wonder that pothos is a popular plant for people of all kinds.

References:

  1. "Epipremnum aureum." University of Florida IFAS Extension. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp600

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8: Orchid

Orchids are highly coveted, fascinating and beautiful flowering plants. These gorgeous blooms come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be found in nearly every region of the globe. While they are known for their fragile beauty, orchids are much hardier than people often believe, and with the right care and attention, they can thrive in a variety of environments.

a pencil sketch of an orchid

One of the key things to know about orchids is that they require a different growing environment than many other plants. While traditional soil-based plants are usually happy with just a bit of water and sunlight, orchids require specific types of soil, light, and water to thrive. For example, many orchids prefer a growing medium of sphagnum moss or bark, which allows for good water retention and drainage. Additionally, they generally prefer indirect sunlight, as too much direct sunlight can be harmful to their delicate leaves and blooms.

Another important aspect of caring for orchids is the way they are watered. While most plants are content to be watered once a week or so, orchids usually require more frequent and careful watering. With some varieties, it's important to let the soil dry out a bit between waterings, while others prefer to have their roots constantly damp. Additionally, many orchid experts recommend using filtered water rather than tap water, as the chemicals in tap water can sometimes be harmful to the plants.

Orchids are truly remarkable plants that offer a stunning display of color and beauty. With the right care and attention, they can thrive in a variety of environments and make a wonderful addition to any home or garden.

References:

  1. https://www.aos.org/orchids.aspx

  2. https://www.thespruce.com/basic-indoor-orchid-care-1902822

  3. https://www.orchidweb.com/store/Default.asp

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7: Fern

Ferns are a diverse group of plants that have been around for more than 350 million years. They are mostly known for their attractive foliage and shade tolerance. Many fern varieties are also grown as ornamental plants, making them a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers.

a pencil sketch of a fern plant

Ferns are unique in that they do not produce flowers or seeds. Instead, they reproduce through spores that are carried by the wind. This means ferns can be found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands.

Ferns are also important ecologically, as they provide habitat and food for a wide range of animals, including insects, birds, and mammals. In addition, they are often used in traditional medicine, with some varieties being used to treat ailments such as fever and cough.

References

  1. https://amerfernsoc.org/

  2. https://www.rhs.org.uk/

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6: Zebra Haworthia

Zebra Haworthia is a fascinating succulent plant that belongs to the Asphodelaceae family, a family of desert plants that are well-known for their ability to withstand drought and harsh weather conditions. The zebra haworthia is native to South Africa and is named after a British botanist Adrian Haworth, who specialized in the study of succulents. This plant is popular for its small, unique and fleshy leaves that grow in rosette patterns around a central base.

a pencil sketch of zebra haworthia plant

The leaves of the zebra haworthia are dark green in color with whitish stripes or spots that resemble zebra stripes. The leaves are thick and succulent, and they store water, which helps the plant to survive for long periods without water. The plant is easy to care for and is suitable for indoor and outdoor cultivation. The zebra haworthia is often used as a houseplant, and it is ideal for growing in pots, containers, and terrariums.

Zebra Haworthia can be propagated through either offsets or seeds. When propagating with offsets, one should wait until the base of the offset is fully developed. One should then remove the offset and the mother plant from the soil, separate them, and plant them in separate pots. Propagation with seeds is more challenging, as the germination rate is often low. Seeds should be planted in a sandy and well-draining soil mixture but should not be left to dry out.

The zebra haworthia is a beautiful and unique plant that is low-maintenance and requires little water and sunlight, making it ideal for those with a busy lifestyle. It is an excellent choice for beginners who want to start growing succulents. The plant can also be a lovely addition to any garden, and it can be used to create beautiful and colorful plant combinations.

References:

  1. https://www.succulentsandsunshine.com/types-of-succulents/haworthia-fasciata-zebra-plant/

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5: Rubber Tree

The rubber tree plant, also referred to as the Ficus elastica, is a versatile, decorative and low-maintenance houseplant. The rubber tree is native to tropical regions of the world and is particularly known for its thick and glossy leaves. This plant is well-suited for indoor growing, as it requires minimal maintenance and is quite hardy.

a pencil sketch of a rubber tree

When looking to purchase a rubber tree plant, it’s important to consider the size and type of plant that is best for the home or office. Rubber trees come in various sizes and varieties, and it is important to choose one that is suited to the particular space in which it will be kept. Generally, it is best to choose a rubber tree size that is not too big or too small for the particular area.

When caring for a rubber tree plant, it’s important to provide adequate light, water, and humidity. Rubber trees do best in indirect sunlight and need to be kept in an area that is not too warm or exposed to drafty areas. In terms of watering, rubber trees should be watered every one to two weeks. During the growing season, they may need to be watered more frequently. It is important to ensure that the soil is not too wet or too dry, as this can result in leaf drop or root rot.

In terms of humidity, rubber trees prefer a moderate to high level of humidity in the air. If the air is relatively dry, then it may be beneficial to mist the leaves of the rubber tree or place a humidifier nearby to provide it with the additional moisture it needs.

Overall, rubber trees are low-maintenance plants that are perfect for indoor growing. With adequate light, water, and nutrition, they will stay healthy and vibrant. They make beautiful additions to any home or office space, and with the right care, they will thrive for many years.

References:

Gardening Know How: Rubber Tree Plant

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