If you thought about getting plants this past year, but did not know how to take care of them or where to begin, MAA Resident Plant Expert Madison has some tips for how to get started!
Madison in her happy place - around plants!
Personal gardens
After seeing this trend on Instagram, I recently bought a glass cabinet from IKEA to retrofit into a greenhouse for my plants. You may have seen it behind me on a Zoom call! Not only is it adorable, but it keeps my plants humid and away from my curious cat, Winston. I got the RUDSTA, but there are several styles that would work. Before I built the cabinet I purchased grow lights, a mini fan for airflow, and a thermometer/humidity meter. I still have some work to make it really functional like weather stripping the walls and door so that it’s airtight, and replacing the glass shelves with wire ones so that there’s more air flow between them.
Looking to expand (or start) your plant collection? My favorite shop is Ginkgo Gardens near Barracks Row. Or check out Little Leaf near U St, American Plant in Bethesda, or Botanologica in Falls Church. You can also find plants at your local Lowe’s, Home Depot, Target, or Trader Joe’s, but I’ve learned that they aren’t always properly cared for and may have issues like root rot or pests.
Excursion Ideas
Don’t have a green thumb yourself but still want to enjoy some beautiful greenery? There are plenty of places to visit in the DMV, and this weekend will be perfect for getting outside!
DC
Dumbarton Oaks Park/Dumbarton Oaks Gardens (you can even tour virtually)
MD
VA
Did you know?
Have you ever been on a walk around the neighborhood and seen these flowers?
Little did you know that they were a bush of the official DC flower - the American Beauty Rose!
If you were a plant…
…what kind of plant would you be? Take this Buzzfeed quiz to find out!
