Story: Indoor Plants May Be Best to Get Inside Before Winter
Episode: 5
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane
Air Date: 5 April 2025

Indoor plants not only purify the air and reduce stress, but with the right varieties and basic care, they can thrive in your home, boosting both your environment and well-being.

• Indoor plants purify the air by removing toxins and adding oxygen, reduce stress levels, and increase humidity, making the indoor environment more pleasant and healthier.
• Start with hardy indoor plants like the Ficus (Weeping Fig, Ficus Benjamina) and Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus Lyrata). These plants are well-suited for indoor environments and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for beginners.
• The Rubber Tree (Ficus Elastica) has become a popular indoor choice, with varieties like the black-leafed 'Nigra' and the white variegated 'Tineke'. While it’s a hardy plant, some variations can be a bit trickier to care for indoors.
• Codieum (Croton) offers vibrant, multi-coloured foliage but needs a bright, warm spot indoors to thrive. The ‘Norma’ cultivar, from Daryl South’s collection, is particularly tough and does well in indoor environments with good lighting.
• If you think you have a "black thumb," try the ZZ Plant, particularly the 'Raven' variety. This ultra-resilient plant thrives in low light, requires little water, and its stunning dark foliage makes it a great indoor addition.
• Feed your plants regularly with soluble fertilizer or controlled-release plant food. Water once a week, twice a week for more sensitive plants, and make sure to soak the foliage occasionally. With minimal effort, these plants will reward you with beautiful, healthy foliage.