Bringing the outdoors in has never been more popular, and designing plant terraces indoors is a great way to do just that. Not only do indoor plants purify the air and improve the aesthetic of your space, but they can also boost your mood and productivity. In this article, we'll take you through everything you need to know to create a stunning and thriving plant terrace indoors.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Indoor Plant Terraces
Before we dive into the design process, let's talk about why indoor plant terraces are so amazing. For one, they're a great way to add some greenery to your space without taking up too much floor or table space. They're also perfect for small apartments or homes with limited outdoor space. Additionally, indoor plant terraces can help to:
• Purify the air by removing toxins and pollutants
• Improve mental health and reduce stress
• Boost productivity and focus
• Add a touch of natural beauty to your space
Choosing the Right Plants
When it comes to designing your indoor plant terrace, the type of plants you choose is crucial. You'll want to select plants that thrive in indoor conditions and can tolerate a range of light levels. Some popular options include:
• Ferns: These delicate, lacy plants love high humidity and low light, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.
• Succulents: These low-maintenance plants are perfect for indoor spaces with low light and can survive with infrequent watering.
• Air Plants: These epiphytes don't need soil and can thrive in a range of light conditions, making them perfect for hanging planters.
• Herbs: Basil, mint, and parsley are all great options for indoor plant terraces and can add fresh flavor to your cooking.
Selecting the Perfect Planters
Once you've chosen your plants, it's time to think about the planters. You'll want to select planters that are specifically designed for indoor use and can hold the right amount of soil and water for your plants. Consider the following factors:
• Material: Look for planters made from materials like ceramic, terracotta, or wood, which can add a natural touch to your space.
• Size: Choose planters that are proportional to the size of your plants and the space you have available.
• Drainage: Make sure your planters have good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
• Style: Select planters that fit with your personal style and the aesthetic of your space.
Designing Your Plant Terrace
Now it's time to think about the design of your plant terrace. Consider the following tips to create a stunning and thriving space:
• Start with a theme: Choose a theme, such as a tropical oasis or a desert landscape, to help guide your design decisions.
• Consider the light: Place plants in areas with the right amount of light for their needs.
• Mix and match: Combine plants with different textures, colors, and shapes to add visual interest.
• Add decorative elements: Incorporate decorative elements like rocks, moss, or small ornaments to add depth and personality to your space.
Creating a Vertical Plant Terrace
If you're short on space, a vertical plant terrace is a great option. You can use a trellis or a wall-mounted planter to create a stunning display of plants. Consider the following tips:
• Choose the right plants: Select plants that are well-suited to vertical growth, such as ivy or clematis.
• Use a sturdy trellis: Make sure your trellis is sturdy enough to hold the weight of your plants and planters.
• Train your plants: Gently train your plants to grow up the trellis or wall-mounted planter.
Caring for Your Indoor Plant Terrace
To keep your indoor plant terrace thriving, you'll need to provide your plants with the right care. Here are some tips to get you started:
• Water wisely: Water your plants when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering.
• Provide humidity: Mist your plants regularly to maintain a humid environment.
• Fertilize: Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
• Prune: Prune your plants regularly to maintain their shape and promote healthy growth.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with the best care, problems can arise. Here are some common issues you may encounter and how to troubleshoot them:
• Pests: Check your plants regularly for signs of pests, such as spider mites or mealybugs. Isolate infested plants and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Diseases: Inspect your plants for signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or black spots. Treat fungal diseases with a fungicide and bacterial diseases with a bactericide.
• Nutrient deficiencies: Check your soil for signs of nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to address any deficiencies.
Designing a stunning and thriving indoor plant terrace takes a little planning and know-how, but the benefits are well worth it. By choosing the right plants, selecting the perfect planters, and designing a beautiful space, you can bring the outdoors in and enjoy all the benefits of indoor plants. Remember to care for your plants regularly and troubleshoot any problems that arise, and you'll be enjoying your indoor plant terrace for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plant terrace and how does it benefit my indoor space?
A plant terrace is a multi-levelled structure designed to showcase multiple plants in a visually appealing way, adding a touch of greenery to your indoor space. It benefits your indoor space by purifying the air, improving aesthetics, and even reducing stress levels.
What are the advantages of having a plant terrace indoors?
Having a plant terrace indoors offers several advantages, including improved air quality, increased oxygen levels, and a calming ambiance. It also adds a decorative element to your space, making it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy!
How do I choose the right plants for my indoor plant terrace?
When selecting plants for your indoor plant terrace, consider factors like lighting, temperature, and humidity. Choose plants that thrive in indoor conditions, such as low-maintenance succulents, air-purifying peace lilies, or vibrant flowering plants like begonias.
What type of materials should I use to build my plant terrace?
You can use a variety of materials to build your plant terrace, including wood, metal, or recycled materials. Consider durability, sustainability, and aesthetics when selecting materials. For a modern look, opt for sleek metal or reclaimed wood.
How do I ensure proper drainage for my plant terrace?
To ensure proper drainage, use a well-draining potting mix and add a layer of small rocks or broken pottery at the bottom of each pot. You can also install a built-in drainage system or use planters with built-in drainage holes.
Can I use a plant terrace to grow edible plants?
Absolutely! A plant terrace is a great way to grow edible plants like herbs, leafy greens, or microgreens. Just be sure to choose varieties that thrive in indoor conditions and provide the necessary care and attention.
How often should I water my plants on the plant terrace?
Watering frequency depends on factors like plant type, pot size, and climate. Check the soil daily, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other problems.
What kind of lighting do I need for my plant terrace?
Most plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. Placing your plant terrace near a sunny window or using grow lights can provide the necessary illumination. Be cautious of direct sunlight, which can cause burning or scorching.
How do I maintain the temperature for my plant terrace?
Most plants prefer daytime temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and nighttime temperatures around 55-65°F (13-18°C). Keep your plant terrace away from heating vents, radiators, or air conditioning units to maintain a stable temperature.
Can I use a plant terrace in a small indoor space?
Yes! Plant terraces can be adapted to fit any space, large or small. Consider using compact plants, vertical planters, or tiered structures to maximize space and create a visually appealing display.
How do I prevent pests and diseases on my plant terrace?
To prevent pests and diseases, maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands before handling plants and disinfecting pruning tools. Inspect your plants regularly, and treat any infestations or infections promptly.
Can I use a plant terrace outdoors?
While plant terraces are typically designed for indoor use, you can adapt the concept for outdoor spaces. Just be sure to choose plants suitable for outdoor conditions, and protect your structure from harsh weather elements.
How do I clean and maintain my plant terrace?
Regularly dust and clean your plant terrace to prevent dirt buildup. Remove dead or dying plants, and prune or trim overgrown plants to maintain a neat appearance. Clean planters and replace potting mix as needed.
Can I DIY a plant terrace or should I hire a professional?
Both options are viable! If you're comfortable with DIY projects, you can create a plant terrace using pre-made planters or building your own structure. If you're short on time or lack experience, consider hiring a professional to design and install your plant terrace.
What is the ideal humidity level for my plant terrace?
Most plants prefer a humidity level between 40-60%. You can increase humidity around your plant terrace by placing the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles or using a humidifier.
How do I choose the right planter size for my plant terrace?
Choose planters that are proportional to the size of your plants and the space available. Consider the mature size of the plant, and select planters that provide enough room for growth and air circulation.
Can I use a plant terrace to create a living wall?
Absolutely! A plant terrace can be used to create a living wall by attaching planters to a wall-mounted system or using a trellis to support vining plants. This adds a unique, space-saving element to your indoor space.
How do I propagate plants for my plant terrace?
Propagation methods vary depending on the plant type. Research the specific needs of your plants, and use techniques like stem cuttings, leaf propagation, or division to create new plants for your terraces.
Can I use a plant terrace to create a themed display?
Yes! A plant terrace is a great way to create a themed display, such as a tropical oasis, a desert landscape, or a whimsical fairy garden. Choose plants and decorative elements that fit your theme, and have fun with it!
How do I care for my plant terrace during vacations or extended absences?
Before leaving, water your plants thoroughly, and consider using a self-watering system or asking a trusted friend to check on your plants. You can also use a smart watering system that can be controlled remotely.
Can I use a plant terrace in a low-light area?
Yes! While most plants prefer bright light, some plants thrive in low-light conditions. Choose plants like Chinese Evergreen, Pothos, or Peace Lily that can tolerate low light, and consider using grow lights to supplement the natural light.
How do I deal with common plant pests like spider mites or mealybugs?
Identify the pest, and treat promptly using organic or chemical controls. Isolate infested plants, and monitor your plant terrace regularly to prevent the spread of pests.
Can I use a plant terrace to improve air quality in my indoor space?
Absolutely! Plants are natural air purifiers, and a plant terrace can significantly improve indoor air quality. Choose plants like Snake Plant, Spider Plant, or Dracaena that are known to remove toxins and pollutants from the air.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.