The 1970s Houseplant Revival: How to Combine Indoor Plants with Furniture

Key takeaways:

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Houseplants are making a major comeback, reminiscent of their popularity in the 1970s
Combining plants with furniture creates an “urban jungle” aesthetic that’s trendy on social media
Classic 1970s plants like spider plants, Swiss cheese plants, and ferns are low-maintenance options
Proper placement and care are essential for houseplants to thrive indoors
The right planters and styling can help integrate plants seamlessly with your decor

The 1970s are back – at least when it comes to houseplants! After falling out of fashion for a few decades, indoor plants are once again becoming a must-have decor element. But today’s houseplant trend goes beyond just a few potted plants on a windowsill. The “urban jungle” look combines an abundance of greenery with furniture and decor to create lush, plant-filled interiors reminiscent of the 1970s.

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Why Houseplants are Trending Again

There are a few reasons for the resurgence of houseplants:

Nostalgia for retro 70s style
Desire to bring nature indoors, especially for urban dwellers
Instagram-friendly aesthetics of lush plant-filled spaces
Increased interest in gardening among younger generations
Low-maintenance options for those without outdoor space

For many, adding houseplants is one of the first decorating choices when moving into a new home. The greenery adds life, texture, and a natural element to interiors.

Mantelpiece without house plants

A mantelpiece before adding plants looks bare and lacks visual interest

Classic 1970s Houseplants to Try

Many of the most popular houseplants today are the same varieties that were ubiquitous in the 1970s. These plants have stood the test of time because they are relatively low-maintenance and can survive in indoor conditions. Some top options include:

Spider plants (Chlorophytum)
Swiss cheese plants (Monstera deliciosa)
Aspidistra
Ferns
String of hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
Mother-in-law’s tongue (Sansevieria)
Aloe vera

These plants are readily available at most garden centers and nurseries. Many can also be propagated easily from cuttings.

1970s spider plants at Lotty's Flowers

Spider plants are a classic 1970s houseplant making a comeback

Tips for Combining Plants with Furniture

To achieve that lush “urban jungle” look, try these tips for integrating plants with your decor:

Group plants of varying heights and textures together
Use plant stands, shelves, and hanging planters to add vertical interest
Place large statement plants like Monstera or fiddle leaf figs in bare corners
Add small plants to coffee tables, side tables, and mantels
Hang trailing plants like pothos or string of pearls from bookcases or curtain rods
Use macrame plant hangers for a true 70s vibe

The key is to incorporate plants throughout the space rather than relegating them to just windowsills. Don’t be afraid to go big with oversized plants that can serve as focal points.

Plant filled bedroom

A bedroom filled with plants creates a lush, jungle-like atmosphere

Caring for Indoor Plants

While many classic houseplants are relatively low-maintenance, they still require proper care to thrive indoors. Some key care tips:

Research the light and water needs for each plant species
Use well-draining potting soil and pots with drainage holes
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings
Provide humidity for tropical plants with pebble trays or misting
Fertilize during the growing season (spring/summer)
Prune and clean leaves regularly to keep plants healthy

It’s also important to choose the right locations for plants based on their light requirements. Not all indoor spaces will work for every type of plant.

making a terrarium with James Wong

Creating a terrarium is a fun way to add small plants to your decor

Styling Plants with Vintage and Modern Decor

The great thing about houseplants is that they can complement many different interior design styles. For a true 1970s look, pair plants with rattan furniture, macrame plant hangers, and earthy ceramic planters.

For a more modern aesthetic, use sleek minimalist planters and mix plants with contemporary furniture pieces. You can also get creative with repurposed vintage items as planters – old suitcases, tea tins, or even kitchen colanders can make unique homes for plants.

Macrame pot holder.

Macrame plant hangers add vintage 70s flair

Conclusion

Bringing the 1970s houseplant trend into your home is an easy way to add life and style to your space. With some classic plant varieties and creative placement, you can transform bare rooms into lush indoor jungles. Just remember to do your research on plant care to keep your new green friends thriving. Soon you’ll be embracing your inner plant parent and creating Instagram-worthy plant-filled interiors.

Do you have any favorite houseplants or tips for decorating with indoor greenery? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Source: https://roweorganic.com
Category: Home decor