Potted Histories: Natural History Of Houseplants

Synopsis

Aesthetically pleasing though plants are in the home or office, they can seem hard to look after, with many turning brown or dying soon after they are bought. On top of television sets, in cold draughts or dry air or in swings of temperature, they are far removed from their often exotic natural surroundings. This A-Z guide to house plants looks at over 80 of the common and the more exotic types, with a description of their life in the wild and why they behave as they do. General tips on plant care are included, as well as specific practical points for each type of plant listed. Each listing gives an indication of where best to put the plant around the house - bedroom, kitchen, living room, bathroom, porch, hall or conservatory - according to the temperature and humidity of the room, and recommendations are made for the best plants to have in each room. The two authors are co-producers of the BBC2 series of the same name.