Renting with an indoor jungle

Don’t let your plant obsession get in the way of getting your bond back with these tips from Ray White Southbank Head of Property Persa Kapsali.

As houseplants become more popular and accessible, Persa has noticed that the vast majority of her tenants have plants in their rental properties. Not only is a bit of extra greenery good for mental health but recent studies have proved that plants are also beneficial for physical health by removing toxins from the air.

While she said houseplants are a great addition to any rental there are a few things to keep in mind when creating your indoor jungle to ensure the property doesn’t suffer any plant related damage.

“The only times that I have seen damage caused by plants is when the pots just sit directly on carpets or floorboards. Usually it's when the pot leaks and damages the flooring below it,” Persa said.

“When I see pots directly on carpets or floorboards, I usually just bring it up at the inspection with the renters at the time and make my recommendations to put a plate or tray. "

Persa has seen some sad stories of neglected flora during inspections so self watering plants and drip trays are just some of her recommendations for keeping your plants in top condition.

“I can highly recommend self watering pots as they have a built-in drip tray so your plants don't sit in water and drown or get root rot,” she said.

“Besides the general of don't forget to water, don't overwater and drown them and keep them in a spot that is well lit but out of too much direct sunlight, I am a fan of putting my plants outside for a little bit, spraying water on them and also giving them a tiny bit of a shake every now and then.

“I feel it simulates a ''gentle" outdoor environment with wind, movement and rain. No science behind it though, just my own plant parenting style.”