You: A Plant Expert

7 tips and tricks on how to create an Insta-worthy indoor garden.

1. SELECT A SPACE
Plants like light, so a windowed area is a great place to start. I had this empty space near our bar that I knew could use some sprucing up. 

2. CLEAN UP
Prior to installation, take some time to dust and sweep where you want to build. Also, be mindful that plants come with dirt. You might spill some in your home. That’s OK. It’s simple to clean up with a dust pan and brush or vacuum.

3. FIND YOUR ARCHITECTURE
Sounds scary, but it’s not. I created a foundation using an old ladder, bench, and large pot. I found these items around my house. I’m sure you have similar items. You just need to think creatively so that you construct layers and different heights.

4. BUILD
Play around with the arrangement of your architecture. Factor in how it will catch the light and what looks best in your room. For this build I wanted people to notice my garden when they walked in the front door; that’s why the ladder ‘anchors’ the build on the far right side.

5. ARRANGE THE PLANTS
Now comes the fun part: playing with your plants! I started with the plants that had stuff spilling over their sides. This could be vines, shoots, or swoops of green. I knew these buddies would need height so that the trailing bits could hang over rather than hit the ground. Once you have all your plants arranged, walk away. You have earned a break.

Pro Tip
Whatever pot you are going to use,
make sure it has drainage.

6. RE-ARRANGE THE PLANTS
After your break (could be 15 minutes, a day, or a week), you will have fresh eyes to see your build. You’ll notice the holes that need filling. Your plants will also tell you if they are happy or sad in their placement. Seeing some unexpected drooping? Swap places with that plant and see how it reacts in a new spot. There will be lots of trial and error.

7. WATER & MAINTENANCE
The plants in my garden are low drama. About every 10 days, some are whisked off to the kitchen sink for a good soaking. Succulents get watered by hand every three weeks. Use your powers of observation. Your plants will tell you when they want to be watered. I know certain green friends are looking for a weekly soak. Some succulents can’t be bothered with schedules. They get a hand watering based on when they start to sag a bit. Your plants will tell you what they need. Be sure to check in on them daily. Are you seeing some dead foliage? Be sure to trim it off. You’ll get the hang of it, I promise.