Dopamine Décor

The latest trend to hit the décor scene is called dopamine décor.

Bring together vibrant colours, bold patterns, tactile textures, and a sense of nostalgia, and your brain tells you to feel pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation – the dopamine effect. And what could be more nostalgic than potted chrysanthemums? Colour also plays an important part in your moods, and in winter, the easiest way to bring colour into your home is to use flowering plants.

Colour therapy with houseplants

Each colour has a unique signature that promotes physical, emotional and mental well-being. Just take a look at this list and add the right colour you are lacking:

• Yellow – positivity and happiness
• Green – nature, calmness and balance 
• Blue – peace and competence
• Orange – enthusiasm and warmth
• Purple – elegance and inspiration
• Pink – love and optimism 
• Red – courage and vitality
• White – beauty and grace, harmony

Classic chrysanthemums

Potted chrysanthemums, or mums as they are commonly called, are long-flowering houseplants that can be planted in the garden after their indoor duty. They come in a range of pretty and two-tone colours and make excellent gifts for someone who needs a perk up. They require very little to perform well, but take note of the following:

• Place in a brightly lit area of the home with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Water regularly. The soil should always be moist but not soggy and should not be allowed to dry out completely. Check daily.
• Deadhead the spent blooms to encourage more flowering.

Chrysanthemum tip

When your mums have finished flowering, and you want to plant them outdoors, remember that if the soil is good enough for vegetables, it’s good enough for mums – rich and well-draining.

These plants are grown by LVG Plants and are available from retail outlets and nurseries.