The Gardener's Network has dedicated January 10th as Houseplant Appreciation Day. On this special day take some time to give your houseplant(s) some love.

Paying attention to the houseplants you are growing and keeping, especially during the winter helps celebrate the beneficial aspects houseplants can bring to you.

What plants qualify as houseplants? There are plenty to choose from such as Spider Plants, Aloe Vera, and Philodendron. There are even houseplants with flowers so if you want to add some color in your home consider an African Violet, Kalanchoe or Geranium. In general, a houseplant is any plant that can be grown indoors in lower light, humidity and cooler temperature conditions.

Houseplants are therapeutic and can lift your mood. They also have a calming effect and can add warmth to your home.

The Gardener’s Network as put some ways for you to celebrate this day:

• Start by making sure that the houseplants you already have, as well watered. Give them a special treat today…a little fertilizer.
• If you do not have any houseplants, or just have a couple, buy a new houseplant (or two—they like some company).
• Learn more about the benefits of houseplants to your health.
• Stand by your houseplant and breathe in the air! It’s giving off oxygen.
• Teach your kids about growing and caring for plants.
• Give a Houseplant to a friend, especially the elderly or shut-ins.
• Talk to your plants. Yes, people believe plants respond positively when you talk to them.

If you are interested in growing and maintaining houseplants be sure to get a copy of our Indoor Gardening Guide, which highlights popular houseplants, which houseplants can clean the air, proper watering techniques and monthly checklists on caring for your houseplants.