Why Indoor Gardening is Important
Indoor gardening is a great way to bring nature indoors, especially in Calgary where the winter months can be long and dreary. Not only does it add a pop of color to your living space, but it also has numerous health benefits. Studies have shown that indoor plants can improve air quality, reduce stress levels, and boost productivity.
Benefits of Indoor Gardening
- Purifies the air by removing toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde
- Increases oxygen levels in the air
- Lowers stress levels
- Improves mental health
- Increases productivity
Choosing the Right Plants
Choosing the right plants for your indoor garden depends on a number of factors such as lighting, temperature, and humidity levels. In Calgary, the harsh winter climate can make it difficult to grow certain plants, so it’s important to choose varieties that are hardy enough to withstand the cold.
Hardiest Indoor Plants for Calgary
- Snake Plant
- Spider Plant
- ZZ Plant
- Pothos
- Peace Lily
Container Gardening
Container gardening is a great way to grow plants indoors, especially if you’re short on space. It involves growing plants in containers such as pots, hanging baskets, or terrariums. When choosing a container, make sure it has adequate drainage to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
Tips for Container Gardening
- Use a well-draining soil mix
- Choose a container that is the right size for your plant
- Water your plants regularly
- Use fertilizer to promote growth
Lighting
Lighting is one of the most important factors to consider when growing plants indoors. Most indoor plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In Calgary, where sunlight can be scarce during the winter months, it’s important to supplement natural light with artificial light.
Types of Indoor Lighting
- Fluorescent Light
- LED Light
- Incandescent Light
Humidity
Humidity levels can also affect the growth of indoor plants. Most indoor plants prefer humidity levels between 40-60%. In Calgary, where the air is dry, it’s important to use a humidifier or a pebble tray to increase humidity levels around your plants.
Tips for Increasing Humidity Levels
- Use a humidifier
- Group plants together
- Use a pebble tray
Indoor gardening can be a rewarding hobby that not only adds beauty to your home but also has numerous health benefits. By choosing the right plants, containers, and lighting, you can create a thriving indoor garden in Calgary.