Houseplants have become an interior trend over the last decade or so. They are now considered an essential part of every modern household. They are simple, inexpensive and fairly easy to maintain and add color to your living spaces. But have you ever wondered when did they become part of our home interior? When did people first start keeping plants inside their homes in small handmade clay pots? Let us see when did people first start keeping plants indoors and how has their use has evolved over the years. 

The first recorded history of indoor plants

The tradition of indoor gardening can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Civilizations such as India, Ancient Egypt, and China have long histories of cultivating plants in handmade clay pots. This practice is also prevalent in countries like Japan and Vietnam, where keeping plants at home is part of the cultural heritage. An example of this is the Bonsai tree, a houseplant that is crafted to represent a miniature version of the full-sized trees found in nature. These Bonsai plants are frequently paired with rocks and water features to replicate the natural environment.

Indoor plants took a backseat during Renaissance era

In the 15th and 16th centuries, the cultivation of houseplants was not a priority as the focus was on growing plants for sustenance and medicinal use. However, a significant development of this period was the global exchange of plant species, facilitated by explorers traveling to various regions, thus enriching the botanical diversity across the world.

Indoor plants start making a comeback in early 19th century

In the 1840s, the concept of cultivating plants within the home began to gain popularity, marking the emergence of what we recognize today as indoor plants. By the late 1920s, the commercial sale of potted plants commenced, a departure from the traditional method of growing plants from seeds. The widespread availability of handmade clay pots contributed significantly to this burgeoning trend.

They continued to part of homes till 1970s

During the 1960s and 70s, houseplants became extremely popular as individuals sought to bring elements of nature into their homes. This era marked a significant cultural shift, with society embracing change and using plants as a symbol of a desire to connect with the natural world. Handcrafted clay pots were commonly used to house these plants, contributing to the interior greenery and aesthetic of the home.

In the 1990s, the trend in home design shifted towards more open spaces, leading to a decline in the presence of indoor plants, with the occasional cactus vine being the exception.

However, the early 2000s witnessed a resurgence of indoor plants in home decor. As urban areas became increasingly dense and pollution levels rose, the availability of green spaces diminished, prompting a renewed appreciation for indoor greenery. Over the past twenty years, houseplants have become a staple in home decoration, supported by advancements in technology that simplify their care and facilitate online purchasing. Succulents and different cacti like Totem Pole cactus cutting have become a common sight. They are easy to maintain and keep inside homes. To get plants and pots for your home, log on varnishandvine.com