Creating a Nature Oasis at Home: Tips and Tricks
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Nature Oasis at Home
Creating a nature oasis in your home may seem daunting, but it can be broken down into manageable steps. Whether you have a small apartment or a spacious house, here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to incorporate greenery, natural materials, and other design elements into your space to build a serene and calming nature-inspired environment. To help guide you further, I’ve included helpful resources and tutorials for each step.
Step 1: Choose the Right Space for Your Nature Oasis
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Identify the right area: Look for a corner or room in your home that gets sufficient natural light (preferably near a window) and has good airflow. Even if you have a small apartment, a windowsill, balcony, or kitchen counter can serve as a perfect spot.
Evaluate your light sources: Different plants require different amounts of light, so evaluate the available lighting conditions in your chosen space—whether it’s full sunlight, indirect light, or low light.
Measure the space: Take measurements to determine how many plants and decor elements you can fit without overcrowding. This will also help you decide on the size of the plants and planters.
Helpful Resources:
Bright Light vs. Low Light for Indoor Plants: Guide from Apartment Therapy
Step 2: Select the Right Plants for Your Space
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Determine plant needs: Based on your space’s light and temperature, choose plants that will thrive. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Low light: Snake plants, ZZ plants, Pothos, and Peace Lilies.
Bright indirect light: Monstera, Rubber plants, and Fiddle Leaf Fig.
Herbs (for kitchen use): Basil, Rosemary, Thyme (prefer sunny windowsills).
Start with easy-care plants: If you’re new to plant care, start with low-maintenance options such as Pothos, Spider plants, or Succulents.
Mix plant types: Include a mix of small plants, larger statement plants, and trailing varieties. For example, placing a tall Rubber plant in a corner with a trailing Pothos on a shelf can add height and dimension.
Helpful Resources:
Choosing the Right Houseplants: The Sill’s Beginner’s Guide
Step 3: Create Layers with Plants and Planters
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Group plants by size: Arrange smaller plants in the front with larger plants in the back. This creates a layered look that’s aesthetically pleasing and allows each plant to get the attention it deserves.
Use a variety of planters: Consider mixing different materials like clay, ceramic, wood, and woven baskets for planters. This adds texture and keeps the design visually interesting.
Use vertical space: Maximise small spaces by using plant stands or hanging planters. Hanging planters with trailing plants can also create a lush, cascading effect.
Tutorial:
DIY Macramé Plant Hanger Tutorial: Youtube video
Helpful Resources:
How to Arrange Plants Like a Pro: Blog from The Spruce
Step 4: Add Natural Elements to Enhance the Space
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Choose natural materials: Incorporate natural materials like wood, rattan, jute, and bamboo into your furniture and decor. Examples include reclaimed wood coffee tables, jute rugs, and wicker baskets for storage or plant holders.
Bring in natural textures: Add throw pillows, blankets, and rugs made from cotton, linen, or wool to complement your nature-inspired space. These natural textiles add warmth and comfort to the room.
Use earth-toned accents: Stick to a nature-inspired colour palette of greens, browns, beige, and soft neutrals to evoke a calm and peaceful environment.
Helpful Resources:
Sustainable Materials for Eco-Friendly Home Decor: Article from Better Homes & Gardens
Step 5: Ensure Proper Light and Ventilation
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Position your plants near natural light: Place plants that require full sunlight near windows or in well-lit areas. If your space has limited natural light, invest in LED grow lights designed for houseplants.
Improve ventilation: Make sure your space has proper airflow, as stagnant air can cause plants to develop mould. You can use a fan or open windows regularly to circulate fresh air.
Pro Tip: Choose grow lights with timers to mimic natural daylight cycles, which is especially helpful if your plants don’t receive enough sunlight.
Tutorial:
How to Set Up Grow Lights for Indoor Plants: Plant vibrations with Devin Wallien
Step 6: Incorporate Water Elements for a Tranquil Effect
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Add small water features: A tabletop fountain or small water feature can create a soothing sound, bringing in the calming effect of flowing water. You can buy a pre-made fountain or make your own using a shallow dish, pebbles, and a small pump.
Include a humidifier: Some plants thrive in higher humidity levels (like ferns and tropical plants). A small humidifier in the room will benefit both your plants and the air quality.
Helpful Resources:
DIY Indoor Water Fountain: Easy DIY guide from Instructables
Step 7: Maintenance: Watering, Pruning, and Fertilising
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Watering schedule: Develop a watering schedule that matches the needs of your plants. Overwatering is a common mistake—make sure the soil is dry to the touch before watering again, especially for succulents and cacti.
Prune regularly: Keep your plants healthy and attractive by removing dead or yellowing leaves. Pruning also encourages new growth.
Fertilize appropriately: Use a natural, organic fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to help plants stay lush.
Tutorial:
Watering and Pruning Houseplants 101: Guide from Gardening Know How
Step 8: Personalise Your Nature Oasis with DIY Projects
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Build your own terrarium: A terrarium is a beautiful way to display small plants like succulents or ferns. Simply layer sand, soil, and rocks in a glass container, and add your plants. It's low maintenance and brings a bit of nature to any room.
Create custom plant stands: Repurpose old materials like wood pallets or crates to build a DIY plant stand that suits your space. This can add height to your plant arrangements and create a sense of structure.
Tutorial:
DIY Glass Terrarium Tutorial: Terrarium designs video
Step 9: Enjoy Your Nature Oasis
Once everything is set up, take the time to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere you’ve created. Your nature oasis can serve as a calming retreat where you can unwind, meditate, or simply enjoy a cup of tea surrounded by the beauty of nature. Let this project evolve over time, and make adjustments based on the season, your growing knowledge of plants, and your personal style preferences.
For more inspiration and decor ideas, explore art prints and eco-friendly home decor at Spaceficity.com. Enhance your home with art that complements your nature-inspired sanctuary.
