There is simply no denying the beauty and drama that a big, healthy fiddle leaf fig brings to a space.
What's not to love? They're sculptural, and they bring a little bit of nature in. Side note: that rug (!!!)
The big leathery leaves are textural and so beautiful!
The bad news is that I hear they're hard to keep alive. I haven't tried one myself, but I've heard the sad stories and witnessed the struggle in keeping them looking healthy and bright.
So if you haven't yet met, allow me to introduce you to the Bird of Paradise.
Big, leathery leaves? Check
Strong, sculptural form? Check
Mother Nature on the inside? Check!
And they're easy to find. I've seen them in the Wal Mart garden center and they were very reasonably priced.
Think you want to give it a go?
Here are care instructions.
1. Place your plant in a sunny location. They need 5-6 hours of sunlight a day.
2. Although they stay green year-round, Birds of Paradise experience a dormant period where growth will be slower.
3. Birds of Paradise are tropical, so during the warmer months they will enjoy a daily misting of water. (Mist once weekly during cooler months.) The same is true for their watering schedules. During the warm growing season, they require more water than when dormant. While dormant only water when the soil is dry.
4. Fertilize bi weekly during the growing season and just once monthly while dormant.
And here's a little bonus. If you keep your Bird of Paradise happy, it might even reward you with some blooms!
Happy indoor gardening!
Chattanooga people - if you need some help creating your personal oasis at home, give me a call at 423.653.3186 or email thegreenroominteriors@gmail.com
