We know it's easy to get overwhelmed when you're A New Plant Parent. There's so much info out there! The good news is, it's much simpler than you think! We've got our top 5 tips for new plant parents right here for you. Lets dig right in!
Start off with low-maintenance plants
One of the easiest ways to get discouraged as a new plant parent is buying plants that are high maintenance. Consider starting with something easy, like a ZZ plant or heart-leaf philodendron, for a stunning addition to your space that requires barely any work.
Build your plant collection slowly
Once you’ve been bitten by the houseplant bug, it’s easy to end up with more plants than you planned for in just a few months. It can be challenging and time-consuming to care for lots of plants, so make sure you pace it out carefully. Even if you do plant to go all in ensure your schedule allows for it.
Understand the lighting conditions
Understanding window orientation and how it impacts the light your plants are getting us an important skill for new and experienced plant parents alike!
North Facing Windows will get gentle, indirect light all day. Most houseplants will do well as long as they’re very close to these windows. Pulling back even 2-4’ starts to get too dark. The corners of north facing walls the areas directly below the windows get very little light
South Facing Windows get strong, direct light all day long. Only higher light tolerant plants will do well in these windows, but the rest of the room away from the direct sunbeams will have some of the best light for plants.
East Facing Windows will get gentle, direct light in the mornings as the sun rises. They’re a great spot for most houseplants. They area around the windows will get medium levels of indirect light for the rest of the day.
West Facing Windows will get stronger direct light in the afternoon and evening as the sun sets. Cacti, succulents, and other high light plants do well right at the window, and most houseplants will do well a few feet away
Make sure you’ve got the right potting soil
Plants grow in different climates all over the India forget the world, and that means that they’ll need different potting soil. For succulents and cacti, cactus mix makes it easy to avoid over-watering, while tropical plants will need soil with additives which make it more aerated.
Find the right containers for your plants
Like us Plants need their space too; but too much space can be challenging. Try to keep your plants in containers that are roughly the size of their nursery pots (the plastic pots plants are sold in) or an inch or two bigger. As your plant grows, it can be repotted when it needs more room.
Drainage is a must
If you’ve got some great containers that don’t have drainage holes, it’s easy to drill your own (consider some DIY available online). Otherwise, buy pots that are slightly bigger than the nursery pots that plants are sold in, and sit the plastic pots directly inside. Ensure the excess water is drained off if you go with the latter option
Stop overwatering
Many plants will tell you when it’s time to water them. If you're missing the signs or just can't tell, you should plan to check on your plants bi-weekly by sticking your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, then it’s time to give your plants a drink.
...But don’t underwater, either
It can be hard to strike the right balance when it comes to watering your houseplants, but it will come in time. Underwatering plants can stress them, which shortens their lifespans and takes away their attractive foliage. Here’s a good rule of thumb: if your plant’s leaves look droopy, it’s time to water.
Make a plan for handling pests
Even with the best care, sometimes pests invade your beloved houseplants. Combat mealy bugs and other icky pests with neem oil, a natural product that serves as a deterrent and offers the bonus benefit of making your plant’s leaves look seriously shiny.
Cut away dead leaves
Using sharp scissors that are cleaned and sterilized, cut dead leaves away from the stem. They’re unsightly, eat up nutrients from the plants and you can toss it back into the pot as compost.
What kind of plants to look for:
We always say if you are looking for a starter plant, start off simple. Here is a list of the best low maintenance, low light plants that have the highest chance of survival.
Pothos – These need water roughly once a week, bright indirect light and room for growth.
Monstera – This one has the same guidelines as pothos but you need to keep these out of direct light. The leaves burn easily with direct sunlight.
Snake plant – If you kill this one, well I don’t know what to tell ya. These are the easiest and can even survive on low light conditions (but that’s just cruel). They like water about every 2-3 weeks and don’t need a lot of light but they still appreciate indirect light.
Cactus or succulents – These too are hard to kill. They like bright indirect light or direct light too. Water is only needed about every 3 weeks to a month, but succulents like water closer to 2-3 weeks in between.
Your plants don't have to be perfect, and neither do you! Plants are living things! That means that just like you and me, they will have flaws.
Leaves will tear, they'll get a sunburn, you'll forget to water and they'll wilt, they'll lose lower leaves as they grow.
You'll make mistakes in their care, and you'll definitely kill some of them, and that's ok.
Snip off the damaged bits, propagate a leaf or cutting from the ones that are dying, learn from your mistakes, and move on.
Let go of all the #green guilt you're carrying and just enjoy the journey!
#plantparent #plantsmakepeoplehappy #Plantlover #houseplants #houseplantclub #planttips #Plantcare #newplantparent
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