On the brink of Halloween, a group of wild and curious plant lovers gathered at our urban greenhouse for an evening of storytelling and science. At part two of our new discussion series, we dove into the world of supernatural plant powers, how they communicate with each other, animals, and us.
Thank you to the UC Davis Botanical Conservatory for lending plants for our learning, and to Standard Wines for keeping our night classy.
A new educational series setting out to demystify the most illusive secrets of how plants live and love. Plants are living beings, just like us—and there's nothing secretive about them! They actually make their needs known in very overt ways. Spend an interactive evening in our urban greenhouse and we guarantee you'll learn something new. Space is limited so reserve your spot early!
PART I: PLANTS ARE JUST LIKE US - RSVP
Thursday, September 27, 7pm-8:15pm
You might think your houseplant is just an inanimate object sitting in the corner… but it's truly living and breathing! At this series premiere, we’ll explore how plant behavior and survival mimics our own, and how we're not so different after all. Participate in a mini-propagation activity and take home a new plant baby of your own!
PART II: SUPERNATURAL PLANT STORIES - RSVP
Thursday, October 25, 7pm-8:15pm
Plants communicate with the world around them to accomplish some supernatural, superpowered stuff. Come hear the most outlandish plant stories—the good, the bad, and the spooky!
PART III: PLANTS & PEOPLE BELONG TOGETHER - RSVP
Thursday, November 15, 7pm-8:15pm
Take care of your houseplants, and they'll return the favor. Your plants can help you breathe better, feel better, and live better. We'll explore the many reasons we're thankful for the way plants enrich our lives (and spruce up our style).
A native of New York City, Emily Bick is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of California, Davis. She received her bachelor's degree in entomology from Cornell University and her master's degree in entomology from UC Davis. She is a Board-Certified Entomologist, specializing in medical and plant entomology. Her work has focused on leveraging entomological knowledge to best benefit people, and developing practical solutions for invasion biology of urban forests. Emily holds a national Linnaean Games championship title and is delighted to list “published theater critic” to her resume.
More about Emily:
https://entomologytoday.org/2018/05/21/entomologist-review-an-entomologists-love-story/
http://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=28047
Did you know that your houseplants might benefit from listening to music? That’s right, they’re not just sitting there looking pretty, but they also apparently like listening to music just as much as you do.
But why do houseplants like to listen to music? Though there are many schools of thought, given plants are living beings, it’s no surprise they they’re quite sensitive to their environment. They respond to stimuli such as light, temperature, and even sound. Yes, you heard that right, plants can hear, though maybe not in the traditional sense of the word! Research has shown that plants can detect vibrations and frequencies, which can affect their growth and development.
So, what kind of music do houseplants prefer? While they don't have the ability to hum along to their favorite songs, some studies have shown that plants respond well to classical and instrumental music, while others found that they responded best to heavy metal!
Not only does music have a calming effect on plants, but it can also help them grow. Studies have shown that plants exposed to music tend to grow faster and larger than those that aren't. This is believe to be due to the vibrations from the music, which can stimulate the plant's cells and increase photosynthesis. Furthermore, playing music for your houseplants can also help keep pests away.
Indoor Plants, potted & delivered
Premium plants paired with handcrafted ceramics, plus lifetime plant care support. Order online at leonandgeorge.com
The Pink Rubber Tree gets some much needed support!
Like us, sometimes our houseplants need a little extra support. If your plant has stems that look to be leaning, give them something to cling to! Follow these simple plant staking steps to straighten out your greens.
Measure the length from the base of the soil to the top of your plant. Add a few inches to allow room for growth.
Cut a bamboo stake to match this length.
Insert stake into the soil at least 2 inches away from the base of your plant and at least 2-3 inches deep. Ensure the stake is sturdy.
Tie the stem of your plant to the stake using flexible materials such as nylon, wool, or twine.
Monitor your plant’s growth every 2 weeks and check that the stems have wiggle room. You want to guide your plant’s growth in the proper direction without being forceful. Add additional ties as needed.
Need additional help caring for your greens? We can help! Feel free to email us anytime: plantdoctor@leonandgeorge.com
Insects can be a real pain for us and our houseplants. Whether they come in from outside and make homes on our plants or they develop on our greens over time, here are some tricks that can help you prevent and cope with pests.
Here are some tips to help you get ahead of the problem:
A houseplant that is stressed from inadequate light is more likely to develop insect problems than one that is growing steadily so make sure your plant is getting the light that suits its needs.
Dust can attract insects and harbor pests like spider mites so wash leaves regularly to prevent the build-up of dust and dirt.
Check for signs of insects with each watering because the earlier you catch any pest issues, the better chance you’ll have of controlling them.
Herbal spray - if you aren't familiar, herbal foliar feed often has pest repellent essential oils that will do a great job keeping pests away. Check out Potion Magique, a specially formulated foliar feed and pest control.
Soap - mild soaps act as a natural insect deterrent. Organic Black Olive Oil Spray is a great way to keep plants not only glowing but also pest-free over time.
If you've missed the warning signs and find yourself dealing with a pest issue, try some of these tips:
Get a bottle of Super Neem Oil and douse away. Neem oil is an all-natural, powerful pesticide that smothers insects at all stages of development, from larvae to adult.
Squish or wipe away small insects and webs with a damp cloth dipped in a mild detergent solution (e.g. standard dish soap).
Shower your houseplants in your sink or tub with lukewarm water - this will disturb any insects that have taken home on your plants and will flush out their soil of build-up and residue.
Prune affected leaves or branches to contain the pest problem from spreading.
*Protip: Push a clove of garlic into the plant’s soil, the smell will dissipate but will still be active enough to keep bugs away!
Indoor plants, potted and delivered.
Premium plants paired with stylish ceramics, plus lifetime plant care support. Order online at leonandgeorge.com
Sometimes you just want that in real life experience before buying online. Other than our Sunday shops this Spring, you can also check out our plants #IRL in the latest Spring collection at Batch!
Photo by Batch
Batch is a thoughtfully curated selection of up-and-coming products and innovative online brands. They have a stylish, stunning showroom that allows you to browse these pieces in a beautifully crafted setting.
Now through May you can pop in and shop their pink paradise! Along with many of our gorgeous greens, you'll also find other incredibly creative brands and interior decor options.
Photo by Batch
Batch is housed in an historic 1916-era firehouse, and they’ve gone to great lengths to preserve, restore, or re-use its original features.
We'll be featured in this space until May 26th, so don't miss it!
Visit 1648 Pacific Ave in SF and get your pink on!
Also, be sure to follow @leonandgeorge and @visitbatch on IG to stay in the know about any upcoming events.
No season calls for change quite like spring, and along with it we’ve decided to open our doors to Bay Area residents who’d like to meet our plants in person… To put it simply, we’re open!
This spring, come visit Léon & George on Sundays from 12pm to 4pm and have a look around our urban greenhouse. Immerse yourself in a jungle of fiddle leaf figs, marvel at the beauty of our 6-feet-tall cacti, or just take a deep breath of that ultra-clean, earthy air. In addition to the plants seen on our website, we will also have plenty of in-person-only deals! Whether you’re in the market for some leafy greens or just enjoying a beautiful San Francisco Sunday in the Mission, all are welcome to drop by!
Mark it down in your calendar:
Sundays from 12pm-4pm @ 3465 Cesar Chavez St
Wide selection of plants and pots as seen on website
Limited edition pots available in person only
Special deals! Discounted prices on cosmetically challenged plants (also available in person only)
Take home immediately or opt for delivery to your front door
Stay tuned by RSVPing on Facebook. Hope to see you there!
Photo cred: Patina Studios
Capturing the pulse of LA and simplifying it down to just a few adjectives is an impossible task (which is also what makes it magical). Los Angeles is as classic as it is wild, and is a city iconic for being both timeless and trendy all in one.
At Léon & George, we love keeping up with and getting ahead of interior styles –– especially styles that truly encapsulate the essence of our home state of California! As we head into spring, we felt it fitting to capture everything that inspires ‘Lush Living’ –– a SoCal-infused style concept that runs parallel to the interior trends of recent years. Here are our own tips for creating this ornately lavish look in your space!
Somewhere between boho and mid-century, Lush Living brings outdoor LA vibes in! Using the paradise feels of Rodeo Drive and Venice Beach as its muse, this lush look can be accomplished by mixing a gorgeous palette of contrasting colors, textures, and living elements. Extracting pale pinks from LA's cotton candy skies and the stark, saturated greens from its overarching palm trees, lush living is not only stylish, but it’s also punchy and impactful. And what’s more is it’s easy to emulate as any blush + botanical pairings in a concentrated space can truly establish this look and feel!
Photo cred: Léon & George, Large Zanzibar Gem
Texture plays a massive role in creating this look. When choosing fabrics and furniture, consider velvet or velour (that’s right, think 90s revival!). Mid-century modern pieces also go hand-in-hand with this style, and the simple lines, stark edges, and acorn wood coloring will round out any space in a timeless and elegant manner.
Like most styles, color is extremely important. Rich green and pale pink palettes are a great place to start, adding accent items like pillows, rugs, throws, or coffee table reads to your already existing decor.
Photo cred: Léon & George, Elephant's Ear
Even further, the best way to accomplish deep, rich, textured greens in your space is by adding beautiful botanicals. No matter what plants you choose as your statement pieces, all of them will help accomplish this look.
Our plant stylists recommend large-leafed plants like the Bird of Paradise, Monstera Deliciosa, and Fiddle Leaf Fig to create those jungle-like feels, or for a more boho look, the Desert Cactus, Snake Plant, or Zanzibar Gem. The natural greens that indoor plants provide are a vital element of lush living. Don’t be afraid to go overboard either! After all, there is no such thing as too many plants.
In love with Lush Living vibes? Share yours with us by tagging us on Instagram: @leonandgeorge
Indoor plants, potted & delivered
Premium plants paired with stylish ceramics, plus lifetime plant care support. Order online at leonandgeorge.com
Photo by Essential Home
In our previous blog (Fresh Us, Fresh You), we talked about how to better yourself in 2018. To further that notion, we’re sticking to our resolution of providing trendy suggestions that can impact your interiors.
Pull from some of this year’s latest trends to set-up the right vibe for your home or office. If you recognize how to work with what you’ve got, while adding statement items where necessary, you too can accomplish the perfect interior harmony.
To help elevate the ordinary in your space, we’ve compiled our 2018 design recommendations from some of the industry’s leading all-stars:
In Vogue, Alex Papachristidis said:
“Green has been missing from the market lately. It’s a color that I love and will always use and I feel it’s making a comeback. It’s such an important color because it brings nature indoors and into the home.”
Right photo by @hiltoncarter left photo Bird of Paradise by Léon & George
In Homes to Love, Emma Vidgen writes:
“As our lives become more hectic and reliant on technology, our desire to reconnect with nature and return to a simpler way of life will be reflected in the design and style of our homes.”
Right photo by Coco Lapine design left photo Monstera Deliciosa by Léon & George
In the National, Rin Hamburg suggests you:
“Use plants liberally to inject life into your home, but don’t just stick them anywhere. Create large groupings to turn them into a feature, or even max out with a living wall. Alternatively, think of unusual ways to display your plants – hang them from the ceiling or choose unexpected decorative pots. You can also mirror live plants with touches of botanical prints.”
Left photo by California Home Design, middle photo Snake Plant by Léon & George, right photo Leo's Oyster Bar in San Francisco, CA
When revitalizing any space, houseplants are the most direct way to bring nature indoors! A safe place to start is with easy-care plants that fit in even the shadiest of corners in any home or office. Want to be bold? Our large statement plants are an immediate eye-catcher and they make a luscious focal point for any room. Does your apartment lack the floor real estate necessary to house a larger plant? Have no fear - consider some of our NEW tabletop pieces as they are easily workable in confined spaces.
The Braided Money Tree by Léon & George
Increasing your collection of greenery is a sure way to re-vamp any interior environment this year! Use the tips we’veBraided Money Tree compiled to help liven up your home or office, after all, when you’re in a positive place, you’re more likely to pollinate others with your vibrance.
Happy decorating!
Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash
Happy New Year plant people! What an exciting time to start fresh. Who else is looking to nurture 2018 so it grows into the best year yet? At Léon & George, we definitely are!
As a company, we're heading into our second year and our new year’s resolution is to continue to make this world a greener place. We'll be bringing more people and plants together, and that means a commitment to:
Plants aren’t the only living things that require proper TLC. We also plan to use this year to take care of ourselves and so should you. Channel your inner houseplant and use the following self-care tips to help YOU flourish in 2018...
2018 is an opportunity to cultivate your personal green-thumb. And once it’s solid, don’t grow alone… get a plant :) Look to us for trendy greens, and together, we can freshen up this new year. Now's our time to thrive!
Photo by Léon & George
If you haven't already noticed, we've added a NEW product to our selection of all things living and lovely! We're excited to announce that the Desert Cactus is here and it's looking sharp. Whether you're aware of the existing cacti-craze or you're completely in the dark, let us shed some light on why prickly plants are starting to populate style-guides, Instagram feeds and store fronts as of late.
Its been obvious for some time that succulents are sweeping the nation. Their easy-care qualities and unique variations contribute to their popularity, and they're sprouting up in coffee shops, window-sills, and home interiors everywhere. The Desert Cactus however, a distant cousin to many succulents, is the not-so-typical plant in town.
More formally referred to as the Euphorbia Ammak, this California-native desert cactus is quite a rare find. It's strikingly grand in stature and has a bohemian aesthetic that makes it extremely photogenic. This Euphorbia can reach a height of 10m and its whimsical, branching arms make it seem almost human-like! Its most common coloring is a pale yellow, but the natural coloration is a deep, saturated shade of green. Add one of these plants to your home or office and it's bound to be an eye-catching conversation starter. Benefit from the Euphorbia's unique, impressive presence with the easy-care nature of any simple succulent.
Left photo by @david.david.studio right photo by Justina Blakeney
With spines as sharp and tough as its personality, this low maintenance cactus is distinctive and unusual. Like its name, these cacti like desert conditions with a lot of light and not a lot of water, especially in the winter months. You can put in minimal effort and this plant will thrive. To quote an article from The Guardian, " [these] cacti are easy-care, striking to look at, and 'green' because they require little water: sustainable interior decoration in a pot".
The Euphorbia Ammak is known for having unpredictable branch-like arms that often grow in clusters. Although aesthetically it seems very unique and unconventional, getting the most out of this cactus is actually quite effortless. For best results, provide this Euphorbia with full sun and sharply-drained, lean soil. If you need additional care tips, look no further.
Photo by @thenowmassage
Adding a Desert Cactus to your life is a sure way to accomplish that modern and trendy boho-style that everyone craves! Grown with the utmost care in California, this plant will add warmth to any interior space. If you're looking for an avant-garde Euphorbia of your own, we can help!
And don't worry about the stress of getting this plant to and fro, like usual, we will take care of all those prickly details!
Left photo by Léon & George right photo by @heartshakestudios
