JUNGALOW, BUT KEEP IT CLEAN: YOUR GUIDE TO SPOTLESS INDOOR GARDENS

On Instagram it’s called Jungalow, a tag for sunlit, spotless homes that are overrun with plants. Lush monstera leaves in one corner; ficus so shiny, light bounces off it; hanging planters showing off philodendrons; palms thriving in white cane baskets; trellises covered in lush money plants; succulents in clear glass bowls. No mud, no puddles, no insects. Did an AI generate this hashtag?

Because plant-filled homes are difficult to keep clean. Water drips from hanging pots, large leaves gather dust, soil has a way of turning up in the oddest places, damp corners attract pests. Swati Gupta, founder and principal designer at Bluedot Design, and horticulturist, Chelliah Sellamuthu, former assistant director for horticulture at New Delhi Municipal Council, offer tips on home gardening without the mud, sweat, and tears.

Pick low-maintenance greens. Less watering means fewer puddles and less mopping up after. “Succulents, for example, store water in their leaves, making them drought-tolerant and perfect for forgetful waterers,” says Gupta. “Snake plants and ZZ plants are also excellent choices as they can tolerate low light and infrequent watering. Pothos, with its cascading vines, adds a touch of greenery and requires minimal care as well.”

Sellamuthu recommends species that glow slowly and don’t need long spells of sunlight too. “Get philodendron, money plants, and varieties of dracaena and palms,” he says. They need repotting less often.

Pot it right. Macrame holders are great for photos. But they’re dust-traps for everyday gardening. Stay on-trend with white, minimalistic plant holders in easy-to-clean ceramics, clear glass, metal and sturdy plastic. “Synthetic wicker planters deliver the organic texture and warmth of natural cane without the risk of water damage and deterioration,” says Gupta.

For climbing plants, avoid wood trellises – their texture rots easily and traps dust. Metal and synthetic materials are easier, in matte textures, so shiny leaves stand out. “Pick sleek styles that provide support for your vines and climbers without overshadowing your other decor,” Gupta says.

Get tech involved. Integrate self-watering systems into your jungalow to stay mess- and stress-free. “Deep watering tools such as HydroSpikes are good for home gardening setups,” Sellamuthu says. Fill them up, stick them into the soil or the pot, depending on the plant, and they deliver moisture through the day. “They’re more convenient than constant manual watering, making home gardening more manageable.”

Make moss your friend. A moss wall, especially on a terrace, balcony or in a garden, offers the sense of green without hanging plants or climbers. “They don’t need soil, watering, or much maintenance,” says Sellamuthu. “They also improve air quality and humidity levels, creating a healthier environment for both you and your plants.”

Do the dusting. And do it twice a week to keep the plants looking healthy and fresh, says Gupta. “Use a soft cloth or feather duster to gently wipe down leaves and surfaces, taking care not to damage delicate foliage. Regular dusting also promotes better air circulation and plant health.

Put it on shuffle mode. Rotate your plants’ locations regularly to ensure even growth and prevent overcrowding. “By periodically moving plants to different spots within your jungalow, you distribute light exposure more evenly and reduce the risk of pest infestations or disease,” Sellamuthu says. “It also refreshes a home without having to invest in new greenery.”

From HT Brunch, March 30, 2024

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