Greenery is an essential part of our campus life, but have you ever wondered how our plants stay looking so healthy and vibrant? We sat down with Ian McInnes from the UTS Property team to learn more about what you might recognise on campus and tips to keep your own indoor plants thriving.
What kind of plants might we recognise on campus? Is there a reason for that selection?
The internal plants on campus are chosen because of their ability to handle low-light conditions. When it comes to outdoor areas like Building 2, figs, olive trees, and flowering gums were chosen for their resilience and aesthetic appeal. They're doing great, but it's not without its challenges – the wind and limited root space require constant attention to ensure their health.
You can find a variety of plants on campus indoors and on the Building 2 balconies, including (L to R) peace lillies, zanzibar gems, golden hearts, janet craigs, golden palms, figs, olive trees, flowering gums and a mix of wild grasses.
How do you keep them so healthy?
To keep the plants healthy, it's a weekly routine of watering, checking, spraying, wiping leaves, and trimming away dead growth. We keep an eye out for signs of pests that might harm the plants. Any plants struggling with low light or illness are rotated out with healthier ones. The Building 2 balconies have irrigation systems and regular fertilisation to keep the plants thriving.
Any tips for those of us without a green thumb?
Not everyone is born with a green thumb, but there are a few things you can do to help your plants thrive at home:
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Make sure they get as much light as possible.
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For indoor locations pick plants that are suited to low-light conditions, are slow-growing, and resistant to pests.
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Learn about the level of care each plant needs – e.g. some plants, like Zanzibar Gems, don't require much water.
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Act quickly if you notice any pests - it's better to replace one plant than have them spread to others in your collection.
Want to discover other ways to get more green into your life? UTS Green Week 2023 features a week of on-campus activities to help staff and students make greener choices in everyday life.