National Houseplant Day

A joyful person, surrounded by a variety of vibrant houseplants, enjoying indoor gardening in a cozy living room.. — National houseplant day illustration

Welcome to National Houseplant Day, where we celebrate the green thumb in all of us! Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting to dabble in the world of indoor gardening, this is the perfect day to embrace the leafy wonders that bring life and fresh air into our homes.

When is Houseplant Day?

It's national houseplant day on the 10th January.

The Blooming Origins

National Houseplant Day has blossomed over the years as a beloved observance for plant enthusiasts worldwide. It all began back in 2016 when an avid plant lover named Lily Green discovered her passion for houseplants during a particularly dreary winter. Feeling the need to share her newfound love and knowledge, Lily took to the internet and created a blog dedicated to all things houseplants.

Little did she know, her blog would become an online sensation, gathering a dedicated following of plant lovers from every corner of the globe. Inspired by the overwhelming support and enthusiasm, Lily decided to establish National Houseplant Day, a day for plant enthusiasts, both novice and expert, to come together and celebrate their shared love for greens.

Spreading the Leafy Love

Since its inception, National Houseplant Day has flourished into an annual event celebrated every 10th of January. Social media feeds overflow with photos of vibrant foliage, quirky planters, and proud plant parents showcasing their thriving green companions.

This day serves as a reminder of the benefits houseplants bring to our lives beyond their aesthetic appeal. They purify the air, boost mood, reduce stress, and create a calming environment. Plus, taking care of a plant is like having a living pet that doesn't need walks or litter boxes!

Houseplant Havoc on the Internet

Thanks to the internet, the houseplant community has thrived like never before. Online forums, social media groups, and plant-centric websites have become virtual havens for plant enthusiasts to connect, share tips, and show off their impressive collections.

On National Houseplant Day, the internet brims with excitement, as plant lovers flood the digital realm with photos of their thriving plants, DIY potting ideas, and advice on how to nurse a wilting fern back to life.

Did You Know?

Did you know that houseplants were once considered a symbol of wealth and status? Back in the Victorian era, having a large collection of exotic plants was a display of one's affluence. Fortunately, with the passage of time, houseplants have become accessible to everyone, bringing joy and tranquility to homes across the globe.

History behind the term 'Houseplant'

1851

Introduction of the term 'houseplant'

In 1851, the term 'houseplant' was first introduced to describe plants that were grown indoors for ornamental purposes. This term originated during the Victorian era when there was an increasing interest in indoor gardening as a popular pastime among the middle class. The term 'houseplant' quickly gained popularity and became widely used to refer to plants specifically cultivated for indoor environments.

1880

Rise of the houseplant trend

By the 1880s, the popularity of houseplants had significantly increased. This was partly due to advancements in greenhouse technology and transportation, allowing a greater variety of plants to be successfully grown and brought indoors. The Victorian obsession with exotic plants, along with the growing interest in horticulture and botany, contributed to the rise of the houseplant trend. Having houseplants became a symbol of social status and refinement, and many households showcased their collections in elaborately designed conservatories or dedicated indoor garden rooms.

1900

Houseplants as decorative objects

By the turn of the 20th century, houseplants had evolved beyond their horticultural purpose and became increasingly regarded as decorative objects. Houseplants were not solely grown for their lush foliage or colorful flowers, but also for the aesthetic appeal they brought to interior spaces. As interior design became a distinct profession, houseplants became an integral part of creating visually appealing and harmonious indoor environments.

1950

Post-War houseplant boom

After World War II, houseplants experienced another surge in popularity. The post-war period brought about a renewed focus on domesticity and the home, and houseplants played a crucial role in creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The boom in suburban living and advancements in heating and lighting technologies further supported the widespread adoption of houseplants. People saw houseplants as a way to reconnect with nature and bring a sense of calm and tranquility into their homes.

1970

Indoor gardening as a hobby

In the 1970s, indoor gardening emerged as a popular hobby. The counterculture movement and the back-to-nature trend influenced a generation of young adults to embrace houseplants as a means of self-expression and a way to establish a connection with the natural world. The popularity of indoor gardening was also fueled by the greater availability of houseplant varieties, gardening books and magazines, and a desire for an alternative form of leisure and relaxation.

Present

Continued fascination with houseplants

In the present day, the fascination with houseplants shows no signs of waning. Houseplants continue to occupy a prominent place in interior design trends and have become an integral part of modern urban living. The benefits of houseplants, such as improved air quality, stress reduction, and biophilic design principles, have gained scientific recognition. The ever-growing popularity of houseplant communities and social media hashtags dedicated to indoor gardening demonstrate the enduring appeal of bringing nature indoors.