Keep The Green Going

Replace your Christmas decorations with houseplants!

It’s early January and you’ve just taken down the Christmas tree and stowed away the decorations for another year. Does the house feel a little empty and, well, kind of sad? It’s natural to feel that way after enjoying the glow of lights glinting on shiny baubles at the darkest time of the year. But there is a way to revive the vibe: simply replace the Christmas decorations with houseplants. Not only do they look great, but certain plants improve air quality so you might feel better too, and who doesn’t need a lift at this time of year?

Watch the video to see which houseplants our expert Danielle has picked out to suit the places the Christmas greenery was. 

Watch the video on Instagram ▶️

We think you’ll agree that houseplants bring colour, movement and a sense of calm to the house during the dull winter months. Pair them with earthy, textured pots to add a touch of warmth to your home.

Danielle’s indoor plant picks to replace the Christmas decorations:

Areca (Dypsis) palm – SITTING ROOM

I love using Areca palms as they are full and lush without taking over the space. The larger size is a good option for filling the void left after taking down the Christmas tree. The Areca tolerates darker areas of the house and requires minimal watering.

Calathea – WINDOWSILL/MANTELPIECE/CONSERVATORY*

Another plant that fills a space without taking over. Its fantastic spear-like leaves catch the light. Pet friendly and a fantastic air-purifier. Keep it away from direct sunlight, direct heat sources and keep the soil slightly damp. 

Cymbidium orchid – WINDOWSILL/SITTING ROOM

This show-stopper plant, known as the ‘King of Orchids’, has sprays of stunning, long-lasting flowers. It is actually easier to care for than most orchids. Consider moving it to a sheltered space outdoors for the summer – Cymbidiums thrive on rain water and can flower several times during the year.

Epipremnum (pothos) – MANTELPIECE

Super easy and a fast grower, this hanging plant is a fantastic feature in any room as it can tolerate most conditions. Beautiful heart-shaped leaves trail for that lush look, or train the stems around a climbing pole for a vertical growth habit. Yet another air-purifying plant.

Schefflera (Umbrella Tree) – HALL, BY THE STAIRCASE

A tall, narrow tree with delicate fan-like leaf formations. I love to use these in tight spaces like the stairway in the video. It gives drama and a touch of elegance without encroaching on the high-traffic area, and allows plenty of light through. Does best in a bright and airy environment.

Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily) – CONSERVATORY

This is my go-to classic as it is super easy to care for, is an excellent air-purifier and just looks amazing in any space. To ensure consistent and prolific flowering, position in a bright and airy location but away from direct sunlight and heat sources. These plants are better on the dryer side, as they really do not like wet feet. They will let you know if they are thirsty with a dramatic flop of their leaves.

 All the plants were chosen to fill the spaces left bare from removing the Christmas decorations. Most can be left in the locations shown in our video, though some should be moved during the warmer months. For example, the *Calathea will need to be moved out of the direct sunlight of the conservatory in the warmer months.