Diana Lewis is one of the most recognized anchors in Detroit-area television news. For almost four decades, Lewis has been delivering the headlines from the anchor desk at WXYZ-TV, Channel 7 in Detroit. Host Rebecca Kolls recently sat down with Diana for a discussion about how gardening helps her unwind.
"For 37 years I've been a news anchor," says Diana. "On a daily basis, I report on the atrocities that are happening in the world, and I tend to internalize and bring it home. I needed a way to unplug at home."
She has learned to relax in the indoor tropical garden at her home. "I work with my plants, and I don't think about anything. It's very spiritual for me. I love flowers, plants and nature. It's my therapy."
It was the indoor garden and pool that first attracted Diana to the house that she and her family now call home. After purchasing the home, the family set to work cleaning up the garden that had suffered some neglect. "It took a lot of work with total family involvement. I wanted to make it a tropical garden because I love the tropics and the plants dance to me. There's a message there--a song playing there for me."
Diana suggests using a variety of plant material. She loves color, so she chose several blooming tropical plants and an assortment of greenery. Most importantly, she recommends consulting an expert before starting and has sought advice from indoor gardening guru Kim Elliott.
"If you're going to have an indoor garden like the Lewises, you should know it takes a bit of upkeep," says Kim. "Plus it's important to give attention to the room climate, sun and light exposure."
Kim credits humidity from the pool with creating an excellent environment for tropical plants, but says it's not necessary for growing an indoor garden. One of the most important things to remember is to replenish the soil. As you water, the soil breaks down inside and out, but you can add nutrients and different plant material at the right level to maintain it so the roots aren't exposed. Also remember to fertilize, fertilize, fertilize.
When it comes to overall design, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Add interest by using different plant textures and colors. "Diana enjoys color all around her because it makes her feel happier," says Kim. "You don't always need flowers per se, but the different textures and the shapes of the different leaves are important too."
Once the garden is planted, maintain it. The plants can get leggy if left to grow out of control. Diana routinely trims the plants, so she can enjoy the view outside too. She waters twice a week.
"It's almost like having children. The plants need the attention. If you take the time to take care of your plants, they'll provide beauty for you," Diana said. So if you're looking for a way to unwind at the end of the day, create a living sanctuary and discover the healing power of plants for yourself.
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