Do you envy the lush houseplants in other people’s homes, while yours seem to wither away within two weeks? Don’t worry, you’re in the right place! In this article, I’ll share some valuable tips that will help you become a proud houseplant owner.
Many people make the mistake of buying a beautiful, lush houseplant without knowing what it is. Caring for unknown plants can be challenging since each plant has different needs. Therefore, I recommend purchasing plants from a specialty store. The staff there are usually knowledgeable and can tell you the plant’s name and its care requirements. If you do give in to temptation at a supermarket, at least make sure to note the plant’s name so you can look up the appropriate care advice at home.
2. Find the perfect spot
Once you know your plant’s needs, the next step is to find the perfect spot for it. Never place a high-light plant in a windowless bathroom, nor should you put a low-light plant in a south-facing window. After finding the ideal location, allow the plant at least a month to acclimate to its new environment.
3. Pot and soil replacement
After the plant has adjusted to its new location, check its soil and pot size. It’s common for plants to outgrow their pots, so it’s advisable to repot them into a slightly larger container. General potting soil works for most plants, but there are exceptions where specific soil types, such as acidic soil, are needed. Make sure the pot isn’t too tight in its cover pot, as standing water can cause root rot.
4. Watering
Every plant has different water needs, so keep this in mind. Some plants need weekly watering, while others can go a month between waterings. If possible, use rainwater, but if not, let tap water sit until it reaches room temperature. Never use water that is too cold or too warm, as it can stress the plants, causing them to drop their leaves or kill their flowers.
When watering, make sure the water evenly reaches the plant’s roots. You can achieve this by pouring water slowly into the pot until excess water drains out from the bottom. This helps avoid root dehydration or overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
5. Fertilization
Plants also need nutrients to grow healthily. Macronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are essential for plants, while micronutrients like boron or molybdenum contribute to balance. Generally, it’s recommended to fertilize every three weeks in summer, while in winter, it’s not necessary, as the plants’ growth slows down. The exception is when a plant is in bloom, like an orchid, in which case you can give it some fertilizer.
It’s also wise to monitor the plant’s individual reactions to fertilization. If you notice discolored leaves or leaf drop, you might be over-fertilizing.
6. Humidity
In winter, when the heating dries out the room’s air, it’s important to maintain the right humidity levels. This can be done by using a humidifier or by misting the plant’s leaves with water. Only use misting for plants that specifically require it.
Another simple way to increase humidity is to place bowls of water near the plants. As the water evaporates, it increases the air’s moisture content, which is particularly beneficial for tropical plants. Another solution is to group plants together, as this raises the local humidity around them
7. Dusting
We often forget that not only our bookshelves but also our plants’ leaves need dusting. Dust clogs the plants’ gas exchange pores, which hinders their proper development. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the leaves, or give them a gentle shower in the bathtub.
Removing dust is especially important for plants with large, smooth leaves, such as snake plant. These plants tend to accumulate dust quickly, which can block photosynthesis—a process vital for the plants’ life functions.
8. Pests and Diseases
Regularly check the health of your plants. If you notice any abnormalities, act immediately, as diseases can spread quickly. It’s important never to spray pesticides indoors! Take the plants outside to the garden, terrace, or balcony, and treat them there with the appropriate pesticide.
Prevention is the best method against pests and diseases. Keep the plants clean and avoid overwatering, as a damp environment encourages pests. Regularly inspect the plants’ leaves and stems, especially the undersides of the leaves, where pests often hide.
9. Don’t forget about them!
If a plant is thriving, it will reward your care. Therefore, you shouldn’t forget about them either. If you tend to forget to water your plants, set a reminder on your phone for the same time each day, so you don’t miss it.
Besides watering, pay attention to regular plant maintenance. This includes dusting the leaves, removing dead parts, and applying the necessary fertilizer. Regular attention helps you catch problems early and take the necessary steps to address them.
10. Pay attention to the windows!
Never place plants too close to the window glass. In winter, they can freeze, and in summer, their leaves can burn. In many homes, there’s a radiator under the window, which provides extra heat in winter that can also cause problems for the plants.
Temperature fluctuations around windows can be particularly harmful to plants. Try to position them so they avoid direct drafts and sudden temperature changes. This is especially important during the colder months when the difference between the heated room and the cold window glass can stress the plants.
If you follow these 10 tips, you’ll become a happy houseplant owner in the long run, and your friends will envy you too. Remember, caring for houseplants is not only a responsibility but also a joy that can make your home more beautiful. I hope I could help you. If you’re curious about which houseplants thrive in dark rooms, read this article!
