(Image: https://picography.co/page/1/600)5. Pothos: Pothos, also known as devil's ivy, is a trailing vine with heart-shaped leaves that come in a range of colours, from green to variegated. It does well in low light conditions and only requires occasional watering.

The Victorian era ushered in a new era of garden design, with the rise of the gardenesque style and the influence of exotic plants and materials from around the world. Victorian gardens were characterized by their eclectic mix of styles, materials, and plants, with ornate structures, intricate borders, and colourful displays. The formal bedding schemes and intricate parterres of the Victorian era reflected the opulence and grandeur of the period, personalised baby gifts with an emphasis on display and showmanship.

Houseplants have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people recognising the numerous benefits they bring to both our homes and our well-being. From improving air quality to boosting mental health, the humble houseplant is a simple yet effective way to add a touch of nature to our indoor spaces.

Tropical houseplants not only beautify our living spaces but also provide a range of health benefits. Studies have shown that indoor plants can improve air quality by reducing toxins and pollutants, such as formaldehyde and benzene. Tropical houseplants are particularly effective at purifying the air, thanks to their large surface area and efficient photosynthesis process.

In medieval Europe, garden design underwent a transformation with the influence of Christian monasticism and Islamic garden traditions. Monastic gardens were designed to provide sustenance, solace, and meditation for monks, with simple layouts and utilitarian plants. Islamic gardens, on the other hand, were designed as havens of tranquility and beauty, with lavish water features, lush vegetation, and ornate tile work.

Today, garden design encompasses a wide range of styles and approaches, from traditional to contemporary, formal to informal, minimalist to maximalist. The principles of sustainability, biodiversity, and ecological sensitivity have become increasingly important in garden design, as designers seek to create landscapes that are both beautiful and environmentally friendly.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, garden design in Britain underwent a series of transformations, influenced by the rise of the English landscape movement and the Enlightenment ideals of naturalism and rationality. Landscape gardens, such as those created by Capability Brown and Humphry Repton, sought to mimic the beauty and harmony of nature, with sweeping vistas, rolling lawns, clumps of trees, and serpentine lakes. These gardens were designed to evoke a sense of calm and serenity, in contrast to the formalism of earlier styles.

In addition to their air-purifying and mood-boosting benefits, houseplants can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of our homes. With a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours to choose from, houseplants can be used to add a touch of greenery to any room, whether it be a small succulent on a windowsill or a large fiddle-leaf fig in a corner. Plants can also be used to create focal points and add interest to a space, transforming blank walls and empty corners into vibrant and inviting areas that reflect our individual style and personality.

Not only do houseplants improve air quality, but they also have a positive impact on our mental health and well-being. Studies have shown that being in the presence of plants can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and increase productivity. The simple act of caring for a plant can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment, as well as a connection to nature in our often busy and technology-driven world. By creating an indoor green oasis with houseplants, you can create a calm and soothing environment that promotes relaxation and mental clarity.

One of the key benefits of having houseplants in our homes is their ability to improve air quality. Plants naturally remove toxins from the air through a process called photosynthesis, where they take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. This can help to reduce the levels of harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene, which are commonly found in indoor environments due to household products and pollution. By having a variety of houseplants in your home, you can create a healthier and cleaner living space for you and your family.

To ensure your houseplants thrive and remain healthy, it's important to provide them with the right conditions and care. This includes watering them regularly, but not overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. It's also important to provide your plants with the right amount of sunlight, humidity and temperature, as well as regular feeding with a balanced plant food to promote growth and flowering. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pests or disease, and take appropriate action to treat and prevent any issues that arise.

3. Spider Plant: One of the easiest houseplants to care for, the spider plant is known for its long, arching leaves and ability to purify the air. It does well in a range of light conditions and only requires occasional watering.