The Kitchen

The kitchen is often overlooked when it comes to houseplants, but it can be one of the best places to show off beautiful foliage. Whether you have a sunny windowsill or a cozy corner in need of a little love, there’s a plant that will thrive in your space.

We recently remodeled our kitchen, a project that’s been over a decade in the making! I started my Pinterest inspiration board more than 10 years ago, and after years of planning and saving, we finally made it happen. We tackled most of the work ourselves (with a little help from friends), and we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. There are still a few finishing touches to go, like lighting and hardware but we DID it! If you’re curious about the transformation, check out my highlight on Instagram.

Plants You Should Have In Your Kitchen

Everyone has their favorite types of plants, but if you’re looking to add a touch of greenery to your kitchen and aren’t sure where to start, I’m excited to share some of my favorite kitchen-friendly plants with you today.

Pothos Plants

(Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is an all-time favorite for a reason. This trailing vine is both forgiving and adaptable, making it ideal for beginners or busy plant parents. Its heart-shaped leaves can be solid green or variegated with white, yellow, or even neon hues. Pothos can hang in your kitchen or sit atop the kitchen cabinets for a lush jungle aesthetic.

Care Tips:

• Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates low light.
  
• Water: Pothos will let you know when they’re thirsty! Curled leaves indicated that it’s time to water. But to prevent the plant getting too thirsty, you should probably water when the soil starts to feels dry. Avoid overwatering.

Bonus: It’s easy to propagate in water—perfect for sharing cuttings!

Syngonium Plants

(Syngonium podophyllum)

Also known as arrowhead vine, syngonium adds unique texture and color to any plant collection. Its leaves start off arrow-shaped and change as they mature, with variations of white, green, and pink.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can handle lower light conditions.
  
• Water: Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Reduce watering in winter.

Guess what? Syngonium does well in humid environments—like your kitchen!

Hypoestes

(Hypoestes phyllostachya)

Commonly known as the polka dot plant, hypoestes is a cheerful little plant known for its vibrant spotted leaves in shades of pink, white, or red. It adds a fun pop of color to kitchen shelves or countertops.

Care Tips:

• Light: Needs bright, indirect light to maintain its vivid coloring.
  
• Water: Water when the soil starts to dry out, but don’t let it dry completely. Hypoestes thrive in humid environments like kitchens.

Bonus: Regular pinching back helps keep it full and bushy.

Rubber Tree

(Ficus elastica)

If you have a bit more space, the rubber tree makes a bold statement with its glossy, deep green (sometimes burgundy) leaves. It’s a low-maintenance plant that can grow quite tall over time.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh sun.
  
• Water: Let the top 1/3 of soil dry out between waterings.

Tip: Wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them dust-free and shiny.

Philodendron

(Various species)

Philodendrons are classic houseplants known for their ease of care and elegant foliage. Whether trailing or upright, their lush leaves can soften hard kitchen surfaces and bring a relaxed feeling to your space.

Care Tips:

• Light: Does well in medium to bright, indirect light.
  
• Water: Water when about 2/3 of soil is dry. Be careful not to overwater.

Bonus: There are many varieties to choose from, including different shapes and colors.

Why Add Plants to Your Kitchen?

Plants in the kitchen do more than just look good – if you do it right, they can reduce stress, and make your space feel more alive and welcoming. Many houseplants thrive in the warmth and humidity of a kitchen, and there’s something satisfying about cooking in a space surrounded by greenery. Plus, caring for plants can bring a moment of calm and joy to your daily routine.

So whether you’re an experienced plant lover or just getting started, these kitchen-friendly favorites are a great way to bring a bit of nature into your home.

If you’re looking for large scale plant suggestions, check out this blog post!

I have the pleasure of being a regular guest on K2 Afternoon. I’ve done segments like plant tips, plant care, and plant projects. While I love them all, I think this one was my most favorite one yet!

I love the way these turned out, and the best part? I had everything I needed on hand. They didn’t cost me a dime!

This post contains some affiliate links. You can check out my disclosure policy for details.

Supplies needed for upcycled hanging basket planter

• Old baskets (preferably without handles)
• Scissors
• Scotch tape
• Cotton cord, hemp, etc ( I used this & this)
• A plant (These are my favorite plant to hang)
• Ceiling hook (like this)

STEPS FOR UPCYCLED HANGING BASKET PLANTER

The great part about this project is that there is no right or wrong way to do this. Have fun and get creative!

Watch this 6 minute segment to make your very own upcycled hanging basket planter or follow the easy steps below.

1. Find/identify 4 even corners of the basket. Each at a spot where the basket weave is open enough for the cord to fit through.
2. Cut 2 pieces of cord. The length will vary depending on your ceiling height. I like to have my planters hanging at about 6 feet from the floor. I usually measure ceiling to floor (which is 90”) and minus 72” from that, then double, plus a few extra inches for knotting. It looks something like this: 90-72=18    18×2=36    36+5=41  Cut 2 pieces at 41” each.

3. Use some scotch tape at the end of each piece of cord to make for easy wrapping.
4. At the first corner, thread the cord through starting from the inside out.
5. Continue to wrap (2-3 times) to get the desired look.
6. Double knot the end to secure.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 on each corner.
8. Pull ends together at the top and tie in a loop. That will be the spot you hang from.

What do you think? Cute right?! If you love this project, you may also love this DIY Pedestal Planter or this super easy One Knot Plant Hanger! Thank you for visiting today.

This post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. For more information, you can check out my disclosure policy.

I am so excited to finally be sharing this DIY with you! My husband and I first thought this up back in 2017. We live in a small home and I needed more places to put my plants… “needed”, haha! Just like most projects around here, I had the vision, and he did the planning and designing.

hanging plant shelf

Here’s a look at the finished product! I love the way it turned out, It adds a WOW factor to this room that it desperately needed. Of course, it’s not the shelf itself but the plants that make the magic happen.

I share my favorite hanging plants in this blog post. I would definitely take a look at the list if you’re planning on making this DIY hanging plant shelf.

what you’ll need

The DIY hanging plant shelf is by far one of the most complicated projects I have on the blog. While I try to keep projects all levels (as much as possible), this one is harder, but just too good not to share. Luckily for you, I partnered up with the guys over at Parr Lumber to bring you a video! You can check it out below.

• A saw 
• A cordless drill
• A drill bit for pilot holes (1/8″)
• A screw bit 
• (3) 1×6 Cedar fence board (usually sold at 6′ long)
• (3) 2×2 Cedar pickets (usually sold at 4′ long)
• (3) 2×2 Cedar pickets (usually sold at 4′ long)
• 1″ wood screws
• (4) 1/4″ eye bolts
• (4) ceiling hooks for plants and lighting (these hold about 30 lbs each)

When you watch the video, we’ll give you some tips on cutting the wood and hanging options.

step by step diy hanging shelf

Don’t forget to watch the video below!

1. Rip one of the fence boards (cut lengthwise), so you end up with (2) 1×3 boards.  If you don’t have a table saw, you can simply buy 1×3 cedar.
2. Cut the fence boards to the desired shelf length.  In the video these are 4′ long. 
3. Cut one of the 2x2s into (3) 8″ lengths. 
4. Cut the remaining 2x2s to the same length as the desired shelf length. In the video these are 4′ long. 
5. Build the internal 2×2 frame by attaching the 4′ lengths to the 8″ lengths with 3″ screws – one on each end, and one in the middle.  Pre-drill pilot holes to avoid splitting the boards.  (1) screw per connection is okay.
6. Attach the full length fence boards to one side of your frame (a small gap in the middle is okay).  Attach with 1″ screws, so you don’t go too far through!
7. Fasten the 1×3 boards to the sides of the frame with 1″ screws.  
8. Before cladding the ends of the shelf, measure what is needed.  This should be close to 12″ long.
9. Pre-drill and attach the eye bolts for hanging.
10. Hang with chain and ceiling hooks. Total weight allowed is based on the hooks that you buy – please read the packaging carefully.  

WATch the video

This project is my absolute favorite, I hope you love it as much as I do! Don’t forget to check out my favorite hanging plants, and if you love this project, you can find more inspo here!

This post contains affiliate links. See this page for details.

You all went wild over Clever Ways To Hang Your Plants! So today I thought I would share with you the best houseplants to hang in your home. Hanging plants in my home is one of my favorite things to do. Not only do you get to pick out a plant, you also get to pick out a fun plant hanger (that might be my favorite part). Hanging plants from your ceiling can help to fill space in blank corners and bring life to areas with no shelving or tabletops.

hanging plants

In the ever-evolving realm of interior design, the symbiotic relationship between nature and home decor has never been more prominent. As urban dwellers seek to bring the outdoors in, the trend of adorning living spaces with hanging plants has taken root. 

Today we’re taking a look at the lush decor trend of hanging plants, and exploring the best plants to hang in your home. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a budding green thumb, get ready to discover the perfect botanical companions that will not only elevate your space but also create a waterfall of green around your home.

The best houseplants to hang in your home

Chlorophytum comosum – Commonly known as Spider Plant will spill beautifully in a plant hanger. Just wait until runners start producing babies, it’s the cutest thing!

Epipremnum aureum – Also known as Pothos or Devil’s Ivy is one of the best hanging houseplants in my opinion. They’re easy to care for and grow quickly!

Monstera Adansonii – Swiss Cheese Plant is one of the IT PLANTS these days! The leaves on this Monstera are smaller with fenestrations and will trail as it grows.

Nephrolepis exaltata – The Boston Fern will grow large and bushy, making it a perfect plant to fill a large space in your home. And as a bonus, it’s pet safe!

Philodendron Brasil -This Philodendron is beautiful with its two-tone green foliage. It hangs beautifully in any plant hanger.

Tradescantia zebrina – This purple and green foliage is just the thing you need to add life and color to your home. This plant has been popular in homes for decades.

Scindapsus pictus -Silvery foliage is all the rage! This plant is gorgeous and super easy to care for. You won’t regret adding this plant to your collection.

Hoya Carnosa -Hoya plants are my absolute favorite! There are so many varieties and most of them are perfect for hanging baskets! Not only do they have gorgeous leaves, but if you treat them right, they’ll bloom for you!

Rhipsalis – Rhipsalis come in all shapes and sizes. Most of them will begin to bloom tiny flowers and trail beautifully.

Hanging plants in your home is not only a beautiful decor decision, but great for homes with pets and some children. Take a look at our Pet Safe Plants post here and if your need some creative ideas, this post is full of them!

Follow us on Instagram for daily plant inspo!

This post contains affiliate links. That means, if you buy something through one of the links I provide, I get a small kick back (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for supporting my small business! If you want to learn more, check out my disclosure policy.

indoor green space

Crafting an indoor green space in your home comes with its joys and challenges. As a plant parent myself, I get the delicate balance between nurturing my green girls and ensuring they thrive in their environment. Over the past 20+ years of caring for indoor plants, I’ve pretty much tried all the plant care gadgets on the market so YOU don’t have to.

Whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned plant enthusiast, this list contains vital tools and resources to keep your botanical friends healthy and flourishing. This comprehensive kit caters to the diverse needs of various plant species. It’s everything you need, and nothing you don’t need.

10 things every plant parent needs

Get ready to transform your plant journey with these invaluable additions to your plant care kit. Let’s dive into our top ten must-have items that will elevate your plant parenting experience and bring new life to your plant babies!

1. Cleaning cloths – I like to use microfiber cloths to dust/clean leaves. It’s a chore that can be easily forgotten, but you don’t want to skip it! Clean leaves are critical to the health of your plants. It helps to improve photosynthesis and prevents pests from making a home on your beloved plants. I love theses microfiber cloths from Grove, but you can also get them at your local kitchen supply store.
2. Fertilizer – Indoor plants require additional food to grow big and lush! You can certainly try different kinds of fertilizers to see what works best for you, however, I prefer the kind the can be put into individual pots (like a sprinkle on or a pump on). Joyful Dirt is a local (Portland) company who makes these great little shakers. I also like this organic liquid pump on fertilizer.
3. Watering can – I like to have a few watering cans around the house. My favorites are either ceramic, plastic, or stainless with a coating. This green metal watering can is the perfect shade of green and looks great as decor. This plastic one is also a great option, but I really love this Hearth & Stone watering can from target with the wood detail.
4. Gardening scissors – You will use these a lot! Whether you’re propagating plants, or cleaning up dead leaves, having a sharp/clean pair of scissors is important. You can use everyday scissors that you have around the house, but I like to have a pair just for plants. These Fiskars are by far the best I’ve used, but these little snips are great for smaller plants.
5. Pots with drainage holes – It’s really nice to have a stack of pots on hand. Maybe you need to repot a plant? Or your propagated plant is ready to be potted? Having pots on hand is always a good idea. These ceramic pots are super modern and stylish but I also love a stack of terracotta pots.
6. Insect control – I’ll let you take you own journey to find what works best for you Some people prefer to use treatment products, and some prefer to take preventative measures. Either way, you need to have something on hand to deal with pesky bugs. I prefer taking preventative measures. I have been using this insect control for over 6 years and I swear by it! You sprinkle it on the top of your potting mix every 3 months or so and water like normal. I rarely see any pests anymore.
7. Plant care guide/books – I am 100% biased on this one. Whether you buy my book (How To Raise A Plant And Make It Love You Back) or buy another indoor gardening book (I have a great list here) you should have a good book or resource to refer to when dealing with plant issues.
8. Saucers – You’re going to thank me for this one. Not all planters come with saucers, and oftentimes porous materials will soak up the water, leaving water stains on your furniture. It’s such a drag to have to take your plants to the sink to water (especially if you have a lot like me). Make sure you have extra saucers on hand. I love glazed ceramic saucers like these, but I always have a stack of plastic saucers as well. Say goodby to watery messes!
9. Potting mix – I always have potting mix on hand. I try to have different materials to make my own mix. But if that’s not something you want to do, then grab a bag of your favorite potting mix. This chunky mix is great for tropical plants!
10. Planting tarp – I love having a planting tarp for indoor potting. Half of the year, it’s just just too darn cold to be outside. Of course, you can lay down news paper or a garbage bag, but potting tarps like this one on Etsy are designed to make indoor potting easy.

You’ve now discovered 10 things every plant parent needs in their Plant Care Kit. Important tools needed to create a flourishing botanical haven within your home. With these essential tools and resources, your journey toward becoming a green-thumb aficionado is well underway.

Thank you for reading and letting me share my DIY Plant Care Kit must haves with you!