Brrr!  It’s getting colder, the dark nights have arrived and we are in a recession. Gloomy? We all need positive energy, something to light up our lives and welcome us home after a busy day.  No I am not suggesting getting a dog, although it might be good idea. This type of pet is very low maintenance, and doesn’t need walking. Plants are the perfect solution; they will liven up your home and actually help the environment to.

Did you know that a recent survey showed that plants reduce stress?  In the workplace research done by the Agricultural University of Norway showed that plants have a positive effect on reducing stress and minor common ailments. Plants can also improve the air quality, giving a cleaner, fresher feeling for the office and home.

What will be your pet plant? The Bromeliad family of plants are great and will brighten your home for months.  It is a huge family with many brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins and hangers on, all with the same characteristics of striking colour combinations but, like us, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes and with different names.

It’s this modern dramatic appearance that makes Bromeliads so popular and suitable for today’s contemporary home, coupled with the fact that the plant will last and keep its colour for months; it’s a great cheery investment.

The Guzmanias are perhaps the most popular of this large family but unlike other plants where watering is from the bottom the Bromeliad family like the rosette of leaves to hold the water.  This plant definitely does not like standing with its feet in water.   Position Bromeliads on east or west facing windowsills with good light but not direct sunlight as this will burn the leaves. An exotic plant it obviously likes a warm temperature.

Think about how you are going to display these exotic beauties. Choose a pot that matches the bright colour of the leaf and flower, decorate the soil with coloured chippings or moss or use coloured sticks to make an enhancing structure around the plant. Jazz up a group of Bromeliad and display together for the greatest impact.

Have fun with pet plants and feel healthy.  Log on to www.plantsforpeople.org