International Plant Appreciation Day – April 13, 2024

History of International Plant Appreciation Day

While we don’t know the history of this day just yet, we are all caught up in how plants became an integral part of our lives — and our homes. Ever since the emergence of the ancient civilizations, people have been enamored with plants. Multiple archaeological sites show evidence of plants grown in pots, and Egyptian tomb paintings from the 16th century contain some of the earliest evidence of ornamental horticulture and landscape design.

With the 17th century came colonization, and thus increased exposure to different species of plants. Explorers would carry exotic plants back to their land for cultivation, and the idea to grow plants inside buildings became popular. Britain’s introduction of various tropical plants from nations like North America, Asia, Australia, and Africa enhanced the popularity of indoor plants and perhaps influenced the invention of various gardening contraptions. The invention that had the earliest — and, at that time, highest — the greatest impact was the ‘Wardian case,’ a sealed glass case perfect for growing and transporting plants, which was created by London doctor Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward in the 1930s. Ward’s invention allowed the Britains to import plants easily and forever changed how they were cultivated throughout the world.

Whereas plants were formerly only used to cover surfaces in upper-class homes, by the 19th and 20th centuries, everyone was on board. Gardening and planting became ubiquitous, and people around the world grew both exotic and native plants in their homes and gardens. The humble plant has likewise risen in the world. Where once it adorned the corners of homes, parks, and gardens, it now holds a position of honor wherever it is cultivated. The broad love of the environment and green living means that more and more people are embracing plants, which can only be healthy for the earth.