Caring for houseplants...
It’s cold outside and we’re all spending more time indoors which makes this an ideal time to give your houseplants some TLC! Different types of houseplants have varying needs and requirements and understanding how to care for each type is essential to ensure their health and longevity. In this blog post, we will discuss how to care for different types of houseplants to help you keep them looking healthy and happy!
Succulents and Cacti:
Succulents and cacti are known for their ability to store water in their leaves and stems. To care for these plants, it is important to provide them with well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes. They require bright, indirect sunlight and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to err on the side of underwatering to keep them happy!
Leafy Green Plants:
Leafy green plants, such as pothos, spider plants, and philodendrons, are popular choices for indoor gardening. These plants thrive in generally moderate to bright indirect light. They should be placed near a window but not exposed to direct sunlight. Leafy green plants prefer consistently moist soil, so they should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. During the spring and summer you can feed them with diluted liquid fertiliser once every couple of months. Wipe the leaves clean to keep foliate looking fresh and if the plant looks unhappy try repotting it in a slightly larger pot with some fresh potting soil.
Orchids:
Known for their exquisite and delicate flowers. These plants require bright, indirect light and should be placed near a window with filtered sunlight. Orchids have unique watering needs and should be watered thoroughly but infrequently. It is important to allow the potting medium to dry out slightly between waterings. Orchids also benefit from high humidity, so misting the leaves regularly with boiled or filtered water, or placing a humidifier nearby, can promote their growth.
Ferns:
Ferns are a popular choice due to their lush and vibrant foliage. These plants thrive in medium to low light conditions and should be placed in a spot away from direct sunlight. Ferns prefer consistently moist soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry. It is important to avoid overwatering ferns, as with other plants, it can cause root rot. Misting the leaves regularly or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water can help maintain the desired humidity level. Keep them away from sudden temperature changes (e.g. drafts from a front door or heat from a fire) and feed monthly from early spring to autumn for optimum growth and vitality.
Flowering Plants:
Flowering plants, such as African violets and peace lilies, add a burst of colour and beauty to any indoor space. These plants require bright, indirect light and should be placed near a window with filtered sunlight. Similar to ferns, flowering plants prefer consistently moist soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry. It is important to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Regularly removing dead flowers and leaves can promote new growth and prolong the blooming period as well as feeding monthly.
In addition to these care guidelines, there are some general tips to keep in mind when caring for houseplants. It is important to dust the leaves regularly to allow optimal light absorption. Monitoring for pests, such as spider mites and aphids, and taking appropriate measures to control them is crucial for the health of your plants.