MAGHAKYAN BOTANIC
Maghakyan Botanic
Answers to common questions about plant care, landscape design, greening, and drip irrigation from Maghakyan Botanic in Armenia.
Phytodesign is an art that merges botany and design, using plants and plant compositions to decorate spaces, enhance aesthetics, and improve the microclimate. It involves the correct selection of plants, their placement, and care, considering the specific characteristics of the space.
The main principles of phytodesign are: proportion (plant size matching the space), harmony (plants complementing the interior), functionality (plants' role in air purification or sound insulation), variety (combining different species), and maintenance (ensuring easy care).
To create a vertical green wall, you need special modular systems or panels with pockets that attach to the wall. Plants that grow well vertically are chosen (e.g., pothos, philodendron). It's crucial to ensure adequate lighting and an automatic irrigation system.
Plants, through photosynthesis, produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide. Furthermore, they can filter the air from harmful chemical substances (e.g., formaldehyde, benzene) emitted by furniture and building materials.
The choice should be based on the plant's light-loving or shade-tolerant nature. For bright, direct sun, cacti, succulents, and ficus are suitable. For partial shade or diffused light, dracaenas, pothos, and ZZ plants. And for darker corners, snake plant or peace lily.
Color in phytodesign is important for creating the mood and energy of a space. Green is calming, but you can add flowering plants or varieties with colored leaves (e.g., coleus, calathea) to create accents and enliven the interior. Combining colors can change the perception of a room.
To create an indoor garden or mini-terrarium, you need to choose small-sized plants that prefer the same humidity and light conditions. Use a drainage layer, special potting mix, and decorative elements. Terrariums, being closed systems, require minimal care.
Phytodesign positively impacts psychological well-being by reducing stress, improving mood, promoting relaxation, and fostering a sense of contentment with the environment. Connection with nature reduces anxiety and increases focus.
Modern trends include vertical gardens, minimalist design (few but impactful plants), the use of macrame and hanging planters, smart phytosystems (automatic watering, lighting), and the application of natural and sustainable materials.
Phytodesign allows plants to be adapted to any interior style. For minimalism, choose plants with simple structures and monochromatic pots. For a boho style, opt for more tropical, lush-leaved plants and macrame hangers. Classic styles are well-suited to large, imposing plants in traditional pots.