We all know the holidays are supposed to be festive and joyous, and we also all know the reality is they can hold a large amount of stress. This year’s supply chain disruptions threaten to turn even the annual hunt for a holiday tree into a source of anxiety. But don’t worry—plants to the rescue!
Plants are already proven to be a reliable source of good feelings. In the infographic #PlantsDoThat Where We Live, NICH (ConsumerHort.org) points to research showing that plants stimulate both a physiological and psychological relaxation response. Even if you can’t get outside to destress with forest bathing, indoor plants psychologically link us to nature.
If you are having trouble finding a big, traditional tree, or just want an updated idea for your decorations, try one of these options.
In a recent blog post, consumer plant brand Monrovia suggested several smaller alternatives to the traditional tree, including dwarf conifers like Alberta spruce or mugo pine, fragrant culinary plants like sweet bay (also the perfect gift for a cooking enthusiast on your list), or even a large houseplant. Abdijan Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) has bright red spathes on new leaves for a cheery holiday hue.
Poinsettias are another classic holiday plant. Upsize from one or two by the fireside by stacking them in a tiered or pyramid shape. One of those trendy tiered ladder shelves can help you create your display, or simply stack your plants on a series of gift-wrapped (empty) boxes.
Or take the vertical garden idea farther and create a tree wall mural with hanging wall planters. Plenty of styles are available from your favorite retailer, and can be used for potted plants, houseplant cuttings in water, or even air plants.
Succulent trees took Pinterest by storm last year and are a fun craft project for an afternoon. Start with a florist foam cone shape from the craft store and cover it in damp sheet moss. Using florist pins, attach small succulents to cover the cone. To keep costs down, try using hens and chicks or cuttings from sedum. Keep it misted during the winter to keep it fresh. You can even replant the cuttings in the garden next year if they root.
More findings on the the benefits of plants can be found in the infographic, “#PlantsDoThat,” available for download, reprint, or adaptation at ConsumerHort.org. When posting on social media, please use the hashtag #PlantsDoThat.
The National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture (NICH) is a consortium of industry leaders who are promoting the benefits and value of horticulture. NICH brings together academia, government, industry, and nonprofits to cultivate the growth and development of a healthy world through landscapes, gardens and plants — indoors and out.
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National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture
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