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7 Things Beyond Basic Produce Millennials Are Planting Now
Believe it or not, millennials do more than Snap, eat doughnuts and shop at Urban Outfitters. They're part of a new generation of gardeners.
Although the Snapchat kweens and Vine kings garner lots of media attention, there's a quiet millennial subset that's growing in numbers: sustainable gardeners. Urban farming and at-home gardening increased steadily amongst millennials over five years and continues to attract twentysomethings who want to do more with their hands than choose an Instagram filter.
Beyond urban farming, though, indoor plants, cocktail gardens and small-space-friendly greenery appeal to the post-grad set for their multi-purpose natures. Indoor plants improve air quality and enliven a stark, one-window apartment. Cocktail gardens supply fresh garnishes for drinks and flavorful add-ins for homecooked meals. Small space gardening solutions offer privacy and unique decorative accents (indoors or out).
Yes, the growing trend amongst young people actually requires a green thumb (not a texting thumb). Here's what the next wave of gardeners are planting.
Hops
With the craft beer movement showing no signs of slowing down, hops have become the plant du jour. They climb like vines and, thus, work well in small spaces since they're easily contained. Hops are most commonly used for brewing beer at home, but we won't tell if you plant them just cause they look cool.
Plant a Beer Garden
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Herbs
Photo by Sam Henderson
If cocktails are more your jam than beer, start a small herb garden. Rosemary, mint, basil and lavender make excellent additions to mixed drinks. These so-called "cocktail gardens" are popular for their versatility. Herbs can be used in the traditional manner for cooking and creating flavored salts. But those with an affinity for mixology may want to try infusing liquors or making simple syrups.
Start Here: Growing Herbs
Succulents
Is it possible for a plant to be trending (example: the Fiddle Leaf Fig tree)? I say, yes. Succulents have taken over as the "trendiest" plant amongst millennials. Why? They're hardy, low-maintenance and have that modern, angular look the kids love these days.
Start Here: How to Care for Succulents
Superfoods
Debbie Wolfe
Millennials are an extremely health-conscious group. But, on top of that, they're budget-conscious, and we all know organic food is often pricey. Growing food at home allows for sustainable, controlled gardening that guarantees a quality product. And with the farm-to-table movement still going strong, growing your own superfoods is especially appealing (and economical). Everything from kale to goji berries to microgreens can be found in a millennial garden. Next to the hops, of course.
Start Here: Guide to Growing Kale
Start Here: Growing Goji Berries
Start Here: A Guide to Microgreens
Air Plants
Terrain
Because they're so easy to grow and display, you'll find air plants in abundance in millennial apartments and porches. Their spikey, architectural foliage makes air plants look especially cool hung from the ceiling in glass orbs. While they don't need full sun, air plants require water at least once a week with misting in between watering.
Start Here: Air Plant Care
Decorating with Air Plants
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Catnip
Photo by Mick Telkamp
For many cat owners, planting catnip is the safest and easiest way to add greenery to their space. Not only is catnip safe for felines to nibble on, it looks attractive on a coffee table and can also be used as insect repellent or made into a tea, similar to chamomile.
Start Here: 7 Plants to Grow for Cats
Vertical Gardens
Ryan Benoit Design
Small space-dwellers are also embracing the plant craze with vertical gardens. These plant walls work indoors or outdoors, serving as arresting focal points. Plus, vertical gardens can house many different kinds of plants at once, a major perk for plant hoarders living in confined quarters.
Start Here: Build a Vertical Herb Garden
