There are many ways to take care of your plant. Here are the top ten tips for healthy, happy plants, crafted by our team of plant experts.
Consider your Space’s Light When Choosing Plants
What plants are available to you that you love? Your choice will be influenced by the amount of light available in your space. If your windows face south or east, the light coming through them is bright, whereas windows facing west or north bring in moderate light. The majority of houseplants prefer bright, indirect sunlight.
You can add a lovely sheer curtain to diffuse the light if the sun shines through your window. Aloe and some cacti can handle more direct sunlight of course. Any plant should not be overexposed or underexposed. To survive, they need the right amount of light.
Identify Your Plant Compatibility
Are you new to plant parenthood? Unintentional neglect of plants can be caused by a busy work schedule, a busy social life, or forgetfulness in general. Nothing to worry about. There are some plants that can handle such a lifestyle. Jetsetters like you will appreciate the low-maintenance succulents, ZZ plants, or snake plants as long as they get enough light (bright or low light). When you return from your next trip, these should still look their best.
You can also try a few attention-loving air plants, orchids or ferns if you have more time. Adding an extra spritz of filtered water daily between waterings keeps humidity levels nice and balanced for these delicate plants.
Less Water Is Better
Underwatering your plants is better than overwatering them. Root rot can be caused by too much water. Put an end to your water schedule and water your plant only when it needs it. Make sure the soil is dry at least 2 inches below the surface. Your plant has enough water to do its thing now if the soil is dark in color, feels moist, and sticks to your finger.
Throughout the year, you will also change how often you water. During the winter, plants need less water because they grow slower, the days are shorter, and the sun is less intense. They may need more water if the heat is on and the soil is drying faster. A plant that has wilted leaves or soil that is pulling away from the sides of its planter is thirsty.
Warm water absorbs the most. Plants absorb water from the soil around their roots, so water should be poured on the soil directly around the base of the plant. Epiphytes, like air plants, are the only exceptions, as they need water on their leaves as well.
Under your planter, place a saucer. After you water it, let it soak for a few hours, then toss any remaining water. Give the soil another soak if there is no water left over.
Raise the Humidity Levels
Your plant will thrive indoors if you stay true to its natural environment. A tropical plant, fern or orchid prefers a high humidity and indirect, bright light. In between waterings, mist these plants with filtered water. A humid microclimate arises when similar plants are grouped together during the dry winter months. Humidifiers can also help and they are great for humans. Cacti, on the other hand, prefer dry air and bright, direct light with no shade whatsoever. The plants don’t mind humidity at all and don’t need to be misted.
Stability
Maintain a stable environment for your plants. Stress can be caused by extreme changes. Keep the temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your plants away from radiators, air conditioners, and forced-air vents, which can create hot or cold drafts.
Fertilizer
You can skip the fertilizer. Fertilizer in excess can cause more harm than good. Unlike outdoor plants, houseplants do not require fertilizer as often. In the event you choose to fertilize your plants, be sure to do so during the growing season (early spring to early fall) and follow the general rule: ‘less is more’. Water should be used before most store-bought fertilizers are applied.
For the first time, you can fertilize your plant if you have had it for at least one year. Use an all-purpose fertilizer. Follow the instructions at all times. Fertilize only after changing the soil. New nutrients are available in fresh soil.
Choose A Reliable Dealer
Consider local nurseries, garden centers, and specialty stores. By buying from a source with plant experts on-site, you can get all the answers you need. Selling or working with plants is a passion for most people. Yes, we do.
Plants are usually stored in dark basements or warehouses of large department stores and supermarkets. If your plant has yellow leaves, powdery mildew, strange spots, brown tips, and weak stems, it is unhealthy. Go for green.
Show Some TLC
Relationships are fragile. You and your plant need time to adjust to coexisting. Start by giving your plant a little extra attention. The way you observe your plant will tell you how much water it needs, if it’s too hot or too cold, and if it gets enough sun. Plus, they’re so pretty to look at.
Repot
Despite what many people think, repotting does not always mean planting your plant in a new pot. It can also mean changing out your plant’s soil with fresh potting mix. Fresh soil should always be given to new plants, since their roots aren’t meant to live in plastic containers, plus they can get overgrown in these containers, so a new planter would be a great addition to the space. Choose a planter that is only 1 to 3 inches larger than its current container. This prevents your plant from swimming in soil, which could lead to overwatering. Don’t loosen up.
Let it Flow
You should always make sure the new planter that you use for your plant has drainage holes, which is a fancy way of saying “hole at the bottom”. Flowing excess water will prevent overwatering. Place a saucer or tray underneath to avoid getting a wet floor or window sill.
Make your own drainage by lining the bottom of your planter with rocks so the water can drain into the crevices.