News, People  |  June 27th, 2014

Increasing Interior Intelligence | Kinghorn Gardens

Just like the plants we take care of, our team loves to grow! Seasonal Color Specialist Jen Shuster  recently updated her Interior Landscaping Toolkit! One may wonder what this impressive certification entails… not to worry, Jen tells all in the Q&A below:

Interior Intelligence
  • What is interior landscaping?  Interior landscaping is inviting the outside into our homes.  It helps us connect with nature on an even more intimate level. Designing your interior space with plants is a great way to express your own style; we also benefit from the plants purification of the air we breath!
  • How do you become certified? I received my certification in college.  I took a course on indoor plants, where you are educated on both common and exotic specimens, and also learn to combat various problems which the indoor environment proposes.  The exam was offered and I eagerly took it!
  • Where do you earn your certification? My certification is through the Planet organization, which is dedicated to supporting and continually educating dedicated persons. This organization keeps you up to date on new studies and important information. I find it to be a very useful resource.
  • How long does it take?  Depending on your knowledge level and height of dedication it can be quite easy. I was quite nervous to take the exam, but came to find that I knew more than I thought! Which is the best feeling ever!
  • What is your favorite part about interior landscaping? My favorite thing is walking into a home and seeing the before and after. There is such a transformation that takes place when you add a few plants. The smile and satisfaction on a clients face is fantastic when a simple room has become a lush living space.
  • What makes it challenging? A big challenge is the indoor climate. Heating units and air conditioners provide such dry air and extreme temperatures that plants find it hard to adjust. Sunlight is also a bit difficult since throughout the seasons the sun is angled one direction or the other.
  • What is your “go-to” for interior landscaping?  My “go-to” would be remembering right plant, right place.  Same as with the exterior of the home, every plant has a place where it would thrive happily, and an area where it would suffer miserably.  It is always best to take into mind all conditions for a new plant.
  • Anything else we need to know about you/your toolkit/interior landscaping?  I am proud to have the Planet Certification for Landscape Design-Interior.  Having the certification is a wonderful way to show your true interest and skill level.  It is reassurance to the client that you will do your best in creating a wonderful living space for their family!


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