Blog Post

Air plants are aesthetically pleasing, and many people love them because they are affable. Moreover, air plants are easy to maintain since you do not have to water them regularly. In addition, these plants do not need replanting or repotting every two years. This article brings out the different air plants and highlights the ideal air plants for beginners.  

What are Air Plants? 

Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, grow in the air, living and flourishing without soil. These plants soak nutrients and moisture using their leaves rather than their roots. Air plants’ roots are used only for attaching plants to other plants or objects. There are over 600 air plant species most suitable for home decoration. 

Where are Air Plants Native? 

Many air plants are indigenous to the West Indies, South America, Mexico, and Central America. Some air plants wildly grow in the southern part of the United States and California. Spanish moss drips from centuries-old live oaks and bald cypress trees in Louisiana, attracting visitors. Spanish moss is a type of Bromeliad known as Spanish beard and tree hair. 

How Do Air Plants Grow? 

The misconception that air plants acquire all the nourishment and water they need from the air is not true. Air plants require water and light to grow like all other plants. They can die from less watering or over-watering. You must therefore consider the native environment of the plants and check that it offers the right humidity for growth.  

Unlike other plants that grow in soil, air plants use their leaves to absorb nutrients and moisture. The plants have tiny hair-like scales on the leaves known as trichomes, which function as reservoirs, absorbing water and nutrients from the atmosphere. 

• Light – Most air plants flourish in bright and indirect light, while some do well in direct sunlight. 
• Water – Some watering options for air plants include misting them every couple of days, bathing them each week, or drenching the plants until they are dripping wet.  

Soak the air plants in a bowl containing room temperature water for six to twelve hours to bathe. You should use tap water or filtered water that has been sitting for 24 hours, thus allowing chlorine to dissipate. You must not use distilled water because it will kill the plant! 

After watering the plants, turn them upside down and shake the excess water off lightly. Then, to help the leaves dry, place them on a towel in an area with enough air and light circulation. Leave the plants to dry for four hours before returning them to their displays. Please avoid touching the plant’s leaves, as skin oils can clog their delicate little trichomes. 

How Big/Small Can Air Plants Get? 

Air plants have unique characteristics whereby they only bloom once in their lifetime, signaling the end of their life cycle. Around the bloom time, the plants produce offsets or offspring. The offsets or pups are identical to the parent plant, starting at the bottom of the plant as tiny nodes.  

Before separating the offsets from the mother plant, you should allow them to reach at least 1/4-in, as they are very delicate when young. After separation, offer utmost care to the new plant. 

Ideal Climate for Air Plants to Survive 

Air plants do well in temperatures between 50 – 90 degrees because they are tropical plants. If you have the plants indoors, ensure they receive enough light and water to flourish. Always stay alert during cooler months when there is a consistent use of heaters, as it causes a lack of humidity, which can affect the plants. Some of the best air plants for beginners include: 

• Tillandsia aeranthos 
• Tillandsia butzii 
• Tillandsia capitata 
• Tillandsia caput-medusae 
• Tillandsia fuchsii 

How Do You Care for Air Plants at Home? 

Here are some of the ways to display and care for air plants at home: 

• Display air plants alone or together with lichen, mosses, or stones. 
• They can be hung or placed on walls, tables, or shelves.  
• Air plants of different colors, sizes, and textures can be framed to create lush vertical gardens and living paintings. 
• You can place them in vessels such as glass globes, bowls, classic pots, novelty pots, and more. 

Get the Best Air Plants in Aurora 

As a beginner, it might take a lot of work to know the best air plants and how to care for them. Fortunately, Nick’s Garden Center can help you through our gardening services and farm market. Contact us for the best air plants and guidance on how to purchase and care for air plants.

Plants are grown for different reasons, such as food production and providing oxygen. The most common question that Nick’s Garden Center deals with is, “Which are the best indoor plants for cleaning and providing oxygen?” Nick’s Garden Center responds to this question by discussing the best indoor plants for cleaning the air and providing oxygen.  

9 Best Indoor Plants for Air Cleaning and Providing Oxygen 

The following is a list of indoor plants you can consider when looking for indoor plants that clean the air and provide oxygen. 

• Spider Plant 

Spider Plant, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, is the best choice for people with little experience with plants. The spider plant does well when planted in indirect sunlight and grows in any environment. This plant is common because it can survive even in 2 degrees temperatures.  

• Dracaena 

 The Dracaena plant can grow as tall as 15 feet. The plant is a good choice if you want a plant that can cover large spaces and voids. Dracaena thrives under indirect sunlight and should never be exposed to direct sunlight. The plant should be watered once a week during the warmer months, and you should be careful not to water it a lot, as too much water causes the roots to decay. 

• Ficus 

The Ficus is a Southeast Asian native plant widely grown indoors. This plant can grow as tall as two to ten feet. Like most air purifiers, ficus thrives in bright, direct sunlight. It should be watered once a week and allowed to dry completely between each watering. 

• Peace Lily 

The peace lily is a simple and low-maintenance plant. It has glossy green leaves that light up a room, particularly those with low lighting. The plant should be watered once a week and fertilized using a slow-release fertilizer in spring. This promotes the growth and production of the plant’s beautiful white flowers. 

• Fern 

The plant, also known as the Boston fern, is easy to grow and highly preferred due to its sword-shaped fronds. The sword-shaped fronds make the plant ideal for pedestal planting. The Boston fern thrives in consistently moisturized environments.  

You should also place the plant in indirect sunlight near balconies, patios, and windows. During winter, reduce the fronds by about 2 inches to allow regeneration and growth in the warmer months.

• Aloe 

Aloe Vera, also known as A. barbadensis, is a very common plant useful for its anti-inflammatory features and excellent air purifier. The plant helps in healing wounds and offering sunburn relief. Aloe vera thrives in warm environments that have good lighting. You know there is a high concentration of harmful chemicals in the plants when it develops brown spots on the leaves.  

• Bamboo 

Bamboo Chamaedorea seifrizii can grow as large as twelve feet tall. The plant is ideal for acetaldehyde filtering and indoor decoration. Pets love the Bamboo plant, and it is among the few air-cleaning plants that can grow under direct sunlight. 

• Philodendron 

This is a heart-shaped plant that adds a lush touch to indoor spaces. The plant is easy to take care of; you only need to water it moderately and place it under bright, indirect sunlight. 

• Golden Pothos 

This plant is also referred to as Devil’s Ivy. Golden Pothos requires simple care and is ideal for combating common household toxins. Its cascading tendrils brighten any room with instant color. The plant thrives in hanging baskets, pots, and water. It is said that this plant is not easy to kill, making it ideal for newbies. 

Get the Best Indoor Plants for Air Purifying and Oxygen 

Whether you have experience growing plants or not, Nick’s Garden Center guides you accordingly in achieving all your indoor plant needs. Various ideal indoor plants purify the air and provide oxygen. Contact us for consultation and the best garden products.

Aloe vera is a stemless succulent plant species of the genus aloe with fleshy leaves. It originated in the tropics of the African continent and established its popularity around the globe. They have been grown for years for medicinal and decoration purposes. Read more to learn about the various types of aloes, how to care for them, and their benefits for the skin. 

DIFFERENT TYPES OF ALOE

There are approximately 600 species of aloe. One can tell one aloe from another by leaf color, shape, tooting flowering style, or the plant’s height. Some of the most popular types include:
•    Aloe Vera
•    Aloe Aculeata
•    Aloe Barbadensis Miller
•    Aloe Marlothii
•    Aloe Maculata
•    Aloe Crosby’s Prolific
•    Aloe Rubroviolacea
•    Aloe Microstigma

HOW LARGE CAN AN ALOE VERA GROW

The aloe vera plant is a lovely succulent with distinctively spiky leaves. The plant can actively grow up to 3 feet in height. However, the average height for most aloes is 1-2 feet. 

ALOE VERA PLANT CARE TIPS

Aloe vera brings life into any indoor space. Aloes are extremely low-maintenance plants. All aloe species can be grown indoors, provided they are properly cared for and have enough space to grow. Here are some aloe plant care tips.
•    When potted indoors, place it in a spot with bright and indirect sunlight. It grows well in partial shade and full sun. 
•    The plant does well in temperatures between 55 to 81 degrees Farenheit. The temperatures of most homes are ideal for aloe vera. 
•    Aloe vera is a succulent, meaning it can store water for long periods. Most aloes can endure minimal watering. Thus, water the plant when the topsoil is completely dry or every two weeks. Aloe vera is at risk of rot if overwatered.
•    The plants are relatively pest-free, but aloe mites are common in some. If you notice signs of mites, cut out the diseased tissue to avoid the spread of mites. Avoid overwatering to prevent the worsening of this disease. 
•    Fertilize the plant sparingly. Give it fertilizers after a month of growing and not more than once a month. 
•    Harvest by chopping off the leaves closest to the base. 
•    Ensure the soil pH is neutral before potting.

BENEFITS OF USING ALOE VERA ON THE SKIN

Aloe vera is a common houseplant widely known for its skin-healing properties. The gel-like liquid found in the leaves has amazing benefits when used on the skin. Here are the benefits of using aloe vera. 

SOOTHING SUNBURN

Compounds such as polysaccharides that are found in aloe vera gel help encourage the growth of new cells and skin repair. Aloe vera helps to heal sunburn by cooling the skin and hydrating it. 

REDUCES SKIN INFLAMMATION

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory benefits for the skin. Inflammation could be in the form of eczema, psoriasis, or lichen planus. It can treat these conditions since it contains compounds that suppress inflammation.

ADDS MOISTURE

Aloe vera leaves contain mostly water. Its leaves can be used to hydrate dry and flaky skin types. Aloe contains mucopolysaccharides which help bind moisture to the skin giving it a greasy feel. 

FIGHTS AGAINST SKIN AGING 

As one ages, the skin loses its elasticity, and saggy skin is more noticeable. The plant contains antioxidants and vitamins that improve the skin’s natural firmness. Aloe vera gel helps reduce visible wrinkles and smile lines on the skin.

With the endless benefits of aloe vera, you may want to consider owning one. Nick’s Garden Center is your go-to plug when you need indoor and outdoor plants. If you want to add aloe vera to your collection of plants, contact us today.

Being a plant parent is a lot of work; keeping a plant alive and healthy requires commitment and patience. Worry no more if you are afraid of growing houseplants simply because a particular room has insufficient light. Even if your room does not have big windows that allow sunlight, you can still grow indoor plants. Below are eight indoor plants that perform well under little to no sunlight and how to care for them. 

1.    SNAKE PLANT

This is a plant with an upright architectural shape. Snake plants need little attention and can grow up to 3 feet long and 36 inches wide. It prefers to grow in partial shades and can thrive for years. Due to their succulent nature, the plant is sensitive to overwatering. Before adding water to the plant, ensure that the soil is dry. Because of its toxic nature, keep the plant away from pets.

2.    POTHOS

Pothos, a Southeast Asia native, is a trailing plant that can grow up to 10 feet long. Pothos is very tolerant of dark interiors and works well in hanging vases. It grows its vines even in adverse conditions, which makes it perfect for indoors with little light. Pothos comes in various colors, including yellow-green, white-green, and dark green. Water the plant only when the soil is dry. Pothos are poisonous, so keep them away from children and pets. When handling it, ensure you have gloves on, as the sap can cause a rash on sensitive skin.

3.    ZZ PLANT

ZZ plant prefers bright indirect sunlight. The plant can tolerate even fluorescent light in your home. If you travel frequently, this is the plant to get. It can tolerate dry conditions. Its glossy leaves and upright stem, which grow up to 3 feet tall, make it excellent for a poorly lit room. Before watering a ZZ plant, check the moisture level by sticking your finger in the soil. If the soil is still wet, wait a few more days before watering. 

4.    RUBBER PLANT

You can never go wrong with this low-maintenance plant. Ensure you consistently prune dead leaves and place the plant in a room with indirect sunlight. Watering should only be done once a week when the soil is completely dry. A natural way to fertilize the rubber plant is to hydrate it with leftover water from boiled eggs. 

5.    OYSTER PLANT

The plant is incredibly easy to grow and care for. Ensure you water once a week and prune any leaves that have aged. When potting an oyster plant, tuck a damp sponge at the bottom of the pot before filling it with soil. This will ensure that it does not dry out too quickly. 

6.    BOSTON FERN

Boston ferns love humidity. It survives best in a room that is kept cool. Therefore, mist them often to reduce leaf drop. Water the plant occasionally until you notice new fronds, then increase its water supply. Only apply fertilizer during the active growing seasons, i.e., spring to fall. Boston ferns can be fussy in winter. 

7.    MONSTERA

Monstera is a houseplant known for its large split leaves. The plant is excellent for creating a tropical getaway in your home. Monstera grows so quickly, so ensure that you place it in a spot with plenty of space. It is recommended to report the plant once a year to freshen the soil and promote growth. Fertilize a monstera once a month during spring. 

8.    PEACE LILY

The peace lily is a nice addition to your indoor plant collection. Also known as the closet plant, it is excellent for purifying the air. Peace lily can tolerate a lack of light and water. Keep the plant away from direct sunlight. For more flowers, expose the plant to a brighter part of the room. Repotting a peace lily is best just before the growth begins, especially in spring. 

Nick Garden Center is your go-to plug if you are considering purchasing your first indoor plant. Contact us today if you want to add life to your house. 

As summer’s last stages and fall approaches, gardens can sometimes appear rumpled. Utilizing plants that blossom, produce brilliantly colored fruit, or have vibrant foliage color in late summer and fall is a terrific way to maintain the appearance of your garden.

Choosing the ideal perennial can be challenging, especially if you are a beginner gardener. To simplify things for you, we have compiled a list of the best perennials for your Denver  garden:

• Anemone   

Anemones are an excellent choice for the shadier portions of your landscaping. Although they are not as drought-resistant as the other plants on this list, they thrive with afternoon shade and moderate water.

• Tall Sedums 

Sedum is cultivated for its distinctively fleshy foliage. Tall Sedums are available in various shapes, including erect and groundcover varieties. It is a dependable, resilient, and simple-to-grow perennial. Star-shaped flowers are typically arranged in clusters or sprays that change color frequently throughout their blooming period.

• Hummingbird Flower

The Hummingbird Mint or Hyssop is an ideal addition to any hummingbird garden and landscaping. The varieties of the mint family produce brilliant, fragrant, and long-blooming flower clusters.

• Furman’s Red Salvia

The Salvia genus contains many unique and beautiful plants that make outstanding additions to your low-water landscaping. We have praised Furman’s Red Salvia numerous times, and it never fails to enthrall us with its lovely profusion of red blooms that cover these plants from summer heat to fall frost. 

Essentially, Furman’s Red Salvia is not as hardy as other plants. Therefore, plant it in a warm microclimate area, considering it is only hardy to zone 6. 

• Blanket flower 

Although blanket flowers bloom abundantly in the summer, they do so well into the fall, giving their vivid yellow, orange, and red hues to the short autumn days.

• Goldenrod

The Goldenrod depicts Solidago rugosa’ Fireworks.’ Who would object to these explosions in their autumn landscape? This native plant from North America adorns your landscape with several panicles of brilliant yellow flowers. Although it is not as drought-resistant as some plants, it is adaptable to most circumstances in Colorado. 

• Asters

Asters are simple to cultivate and are popular among gardeners, both as perennials and annuals in warm areas. The plants enliven the yard in late summer and autumn by providing late-season nectar necessary for pollinators. Their star-shaped flower heads are colored in various hues, from purple to white to blue.

• Cabbage 

These decorative varieties bring luster to your fall garden. They are annuals but bloom for months until a severe frost. You can also select ornamental and culinary kinds that bring brilliant green, purple, and white hues to your autumn landscape. The best part is that a touch of ice can intensify their shade.

• Coneflowers 

Coneflowers are common in many flower gardens. At all times, butterflies and bees are near these magnificent perennials. This sun-tolerant perennial flower is simple to cultivate and produces gorgeous purple flowers. The plant has a towering backdrop or repeating rows of large, frequently six-inch-wide, violet daisy-like flowers. The sturdy stalks rarely require staking or bending to retain an upright position.

• Plumbago

Plumbago plants are valued for their profusion of blue phlox-like flowers, considering it produces the flowers for long periods. The plumbago thrives in hardiness zones of between 9 and 11. Always consider the area you are planting plumbago plants as they need plenty of room to thrive.

Best Perennials in Denver: Nick’s Garden Center 

Even with the many climates and hardiness zones of Colorado, the perennial plants and flowers on this list can sustain this type of environment. While some perennials do better than others depending on your location within the state, most of these perennials make your garden glamorous year after year.

Are you looking for perennial beauty that will return year after year to your garden inDenver? Perennial flowers and vegetation are your ideal selection. Nick’s Garden Center has an extensive collection of Colorado-friendly, high-quality plants and flowers that look beautiful in your yard. Contact us for more information.