Have you longed for your very own bathroom jungle oasis? Do you end up assassinating every poor plant that crosses your threshold? Don’t worry, there is hope.
First things first, you have to think of plants as pets, especially indoor ones. Just like pets, you
will get to know them over time, their likes and dislikes. Before you purchase your new pet you also need to consider what will fit your personality and the environment it will live in. If you have a busy schedule don’t purchase the rare fern that will need watering every three days and an evening lullaby but rather the forgiving Mother-in-Law’s Tongue that will survive through the apocalypse. The next time you are having a relaxing sit on the throne contemplate the space. Where will my new friend like living best without poking me in the eye while I brush my teeth? How big should it be? Most of us have limited space in our bathrooms so look to the ceiling, window frame or burglar bars for inspiration. Bathroom rails make an excellent space for hanging pots and the cabinet might be just right for a cascading String of Pearls.
Do not place your plants in a position where you have to risk your life to water them. If you are going for the ‘hanging garden of Babylon’ look, ensure that you have a stepping ladder that can easily be stored close by. I suggest making a trip to your local hardware store or nursery to have a look at what hooks, brackets, shelves and pulley systems are available. If you have adequate floor space, Delicious Monster, Dragon Tree and Fiddle Leaf Fig give you that lush tropical feel.
Once you have planned your jungle scene in your head, remember that two of the biggest factors contributing to their survival are sunlight and ventilation. If your bathroom resembles a cave, get more than one plant to swap out every week to a sunnier position in your home. Always leave the window open for adequate ventilation. Black mould is not a good look on your shower tiles or plants. Although you will be tempted to splash your babies while you shower, over watering can cause fungal infections, root rot and mould. Observe your plants and adjust watering frequency, position and feeding. Plants are very forgiving if you pay attention.
TOP 5 DIE-HARD BATHROOM PLANTS:
1. ZZ plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia | Form plant
2. Heartleaf
Philodendron scandens | Cascading, hanging baskets
3. Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum | Pot or hangingbasket
4. Asparagus Fern
Asparagus densiflorus | Pot or hanging basket
5. Mother-in-law’s tongue
Sansevieria trifasciata | Form plant
ALSO SEE PLANTING RESPONSIBLY: ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIEDNLY PLANTING PRINCIPLES
Planting Responsibly: Environmentally-Friendly Planting Principles