Don’t let winter hold you back from having fun with your houseplants—stay productive with plants with these trendy ideas for 2024! If you’re counting down the days until spring right about now, it's the perfect time to transform your indoor space into a lush sanctuary of well-being. In this week’s blog, we’ll show you how!

 

Medicinal Plants for Health & Productivity

What better way to boost winter well-being than to get productive with medicinal plants? Here are some of our favorites to consider adding to your indoor garden:

• Aloe vera: Renowned for its soothing and healing properties, is a star in the world of medicinal plants. Its succulent leaves are packed with a gel-like substance that works wonders for treating minor burns and skin irritations. Moreover, it excels at purifying the air in your living space, a valuable trait for combating the dry indoor air often experienced in Bettendorf during the winter.
• Lavender: Known for its calming and stress-relieving properties, lavender is an excellent addition to your indoor garden. Its fragrant flowers can be dried and used to make soothing herbal teas or sachets for relaxation.
• Peppermint: Peppermint is not only a delightful herb for flavoring teas and dishes, but it also has medicinal benefits. Its leaves can be used to alleviate digestive issues and headaches. Plus, its invigorating scent can help improve focus and productivity.
• Eucalyptus: If you're looking for a plant that can help clear congestion and ease respiratory discomfort during the winter months, eucalyptus is a fantastic choice. Its aromatic leaves release a refreshing scent that can open up your airways.
• Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is known for its calming and mood-boosting properties. It can be brewed into a delicious tea to reduce stress and anxiety, helping you stay focused and productive during the winter season.

Another way to celebrate and learn more about wellness this winter is by taking part in some of our amazing local events, like the Winter Wellness Family Event in Rock Island! 

If you’re looking for some more indoor plant ideas to pass the long days of winter, there is so much more in store! This year, the gardening world is buzzing with unusual and rare finds, mini terrarium plants like succulents, and the timeless elegance of bonsai trees. 

 

Let's dig deeper: 

Trending Greens & Plants For Productivity in the Quad Cities

These plants are not only visually-appealing but also come with unique characteristics that make them a must-have for any indoor gardener seeking winter productivity.

• Calathea Orbifolia: This stunning houseplant features large, round leaves with intricate patterns that resemble a piece of art. The calathea orbifolia is known for its air-purifying qualities, making it an excellent addition to your indoor space. Its low-maintenance nature ensures that you can focus on your productivity without being bogged down by excessive care.
• Monstera Adansonii: The ‘Swiss Cheese’ plant, as it's commonly called, is back in the spotlight in 2024. Its quirky, fenestrated leaves bring a touch of the jungle to your home. 
• Snake Plant Laurentii: Known for its air-purifying abilities, the snake plant is an excellent choice for those seeking to improve the air quality in their homes. The Laurentii variety features striking yellow-edged leaves, adding a pop of much needed color!

 

Rare Finds for the Avid Collector

If you're someone who loves to stand out and showcase your unique taste, rare and exotic plants should be on your radar. These gems are not just plants; they're living pieces of art!

• Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’: This philodendron variety is a showstopper with its vibrant pink variegation. It's a rare find that commands attention and will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of your indoor garden.
• ‘Thai Constellation’ Monstera: With its stunning variegation, the Thai monstera is a prized possession for any plant collector. Its irregular patterns on lush green leaves create a captivating display.
• ‘Black Velvet’ Alocasia: Alocasias are known for their dramatic foliage, and the black velvet alocasia is no exception! Its deep green leaves have a velvety texture that adds a touch of luxury to your plant collection.

 

Mini Terrarium Plants: Succulent Varieties

For those who enjoy the artistry of arranging and caring for small plants in contained environments, succulents are the perfect choice. These miniature wonders are not only adorable but also easy to care for:

• Echeveria 'Lola': With its pastel hues and rosette shape, echeveria 'Lola' is a delightful addition to any terrarium. It thrives in well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.
• Haworthia Cooperi: This petite succulent forms tight rosettes of translucent leaves, creating a mesmerizing effect. Another excellent choice for terrariums due to its compact size.
• Crassula 'Baby's Necklace': This crassula type indeed resembles a string of beads, giving your miniature garden a distinctive and playful flair.

 

Bonsai Trees: A Timeless Art

Lastly, let's not forget the charm of bonsai trees. These miniature trees have been cultivated for centuries and symbolize harmony, balance, and patience. They make an excellent addition to your indoor garden, serving as a focal point for reflection and creativity.

• Ficus Retusa: Also known as the ginseng ficus, this bonsai tree features a thick, twisted trunk and lush green foliage. It's a symbol of good luck and is believed to bring positive energy to its surroundings.
• Juniper Bonsai: Juniper bonsai trees are known for their graceful, cascading branches. They require careful pruning and shaping, making them a perfect choice for those who enjoy the meditative art of bonsai cultivation.

 

If you need more inspiration for making the perfect bonsai for your home, check out our friends at the Quad City Bonsai Club to get the inspiration flowing. 

There's no better way to stay productive with plants in winter than by stocking up on some of these top picks from Wallace’s Garden Center. Come see us today and we’ll keep you seeing green all year round!