No matter where you reside, houseplants are one of the most sought-after decorations to have in any sanctuary. Not only are you (quite literally) bringing a piece of nature into your space, but it makes for a more inviting atmosphere that also has huge health benefits. However, it’s hard to shut out the internet’s role in influencing many creators, curators, and industry icons in what and what not to purchase over the years. These unspoken rules of cringe continue to take over the interior design space, and sadly we can confirm that flower and plant trends are included on the list of things, like home decor, that can be “basic” and, even worse, “cheugy.” (And don’t even get us started on people who willingly purchase fake alternatives!)
While we’re not expecting to become full-fledged botanical pros by the end of this, there are a few irrefutable plant trends we’re eagerly bidding adieu to, with advisement from leading voices in the design space. These experts also share what to do instead to maximize your space, budget, and plants’ lifespans. Here are seven of the biggest unfiltered and unapologetic icks in the plant department right now from eight of our favorite plant, floral, and interior stylists.
Hoarding tons of plants, especially in one part of the room
Plants are like kids, so maintaining a quality lifestyle for them to thrive is essential. Each species requires much-needed attention, and despite what others might think, not all of them can thrive in the same type of space. With that said, there was a memorable period right before the 2020 quarantine lockdowns when people suddenly had more time on their hands and accumulated crowds of pots and vases that took up every facet of the home. But as we ease back into our regularly scheduled programming, the “plant babies” that are crammed on top of our window sills are now suffering. It’s giving cluttercore vibes, in a very bad way!
Maryah Greene, New York’s resident plant doctor at Greene Piece, says that when she launched her business in 2019, people really seemed to love the plants that they brought to their space. Then during the pandemic, she noticed a massive shift toward plant hoarding, or buying for the sake of having them, which became the driving design force. “We went all in and committed to having plants as children,” she explains. “Since we couldn’t go outside as often as we used to, we decided suddenly that having a ton of plants in your home was the norm to feel more connected to nature.”