Adding plants to your home can be a great way to bring nature, life and colour to your space. However, the decision of when to choose faux foliage over real can be a difficult one.
Faux plants have become increasingly popular in recent years as a stylish and low-maintenance alternative to real plants.
Real plants can be finicky & require specific conditions in order to thrive but there are of course some undeniable benefits to having them in your home.
On the other hand there are also advantages to opting for faux plants instead. The first being that they can be placed anywhere without worrying about their survival. However, they can look fake and cheap, especially if they’re made of poor quality materials or are not arranged in a way that’s true to form.
While I believe there’s a place for both types in every home, keep reading for our top tips & considerations when making your choice…
Research is Key | Before bringing a new plant into your space, it's crucial to do your research. Take into account the plant's needs and requirements and ensure they are suitable for the intended space. (Read on for where to start..)
Assess Lighting | It’s important to check the natural light in your area. Do you have windows that face north or south? Is there natural light coming in at all? Does this align with the style of plant you like & it’s needs?
Placement | Consider potential Breeze.. the number of likely open windows or doors, Heating or Cooling vents.. ensure anything real is not placed in a drafty area. For most indoor plant varieties this is unfavourable.
Kids & pets | If your play room is constantly filled with toddlers or mess makers will your live plant survive the chaos? Are your nursery blinds always drawn, or do you have a dirt loving furbaby? This doesn’t have to mean passing on the greenery altogether. In this instance opt for faux to avoid cleaning up constant accidents.
Watering requirements | Does your plant of choice require frequent watering or a humid environment? Does this align with your your schedule? If you travel frequently or spend extended periods away from the space (Eg office or workspace) will your plant survive without attention, or will it become wilting & unhealthy by the time you return?
Cost | Faux plants are often more cost-effective in the long term than real plants. While the initial cost of a high-quality faux plant may be higher than that of a live variety, faux plants don't require ongoing expenses like soil, fertilizer, or replacement if the original dies. Plus you can purchase at your desired height & skip the waiting game
Vase/Planter | Be sure to check if your vase or proffered pot is water tight. If opting for a wooden vessel be sure to use artificial stems as the timber will warp if it comes in contact with water. Ultimately, the decision comes down to preference, lifestyle & surroundings. If you have the time and energy to care for real plants and enjoy their benefits, they can be a great addition to your home. However, if you prefer low-maintenance options, have limited natural light, or don’t need the extra responsibility then faux plants have our vote.
Why not have both?.. Assess each space using the tips outlined & find what best works for each space in your home. For those tricky darker areas go for faux plants, but where conditions allow opt for the real thing.
If your sold on a low-maintenance and cost-effective option we've got you covered. Check out our new range of faux foliage inspired by Coastal, Mediterranean & Native species. Available in stems for slim vessels, small bushes or larger trees.
They're of great quality, won't break the bank, and will look great for years to come. Adding greenery to your home can truly add impact to every space, you'll notice a remarkable difference in the ambiance and overall appeal of your home whichever choice you make.