There’s something about bringing the green from the outdoors to the indoors that brightens up our homes and workplaces.
As I write these very words, I am taking a look around to count the houseplants I have on my writing desk and all around the room.
Caring for Your Plants
We’ll get into the details later to explain why this works, but first, repeat after me:
“Everything in moderation.”
It is a fact that applies to all aspects of our life (except desserts, you always need more desserts!), and it most certainly applies to plant care. All plants require water, light, and food, but the trick to success is to practice moderation.
Before listing your tips below, add one last sentence that sums up your paragraph or offers a smooth transition to your listicle.
Tip #1 - Choose plants based on your light
Are the plants you love the ones you can have? Our #1 rule of (green) thumb is to determine the amount of natural light your space receives, and to choose your plant accordingly. If you’re not sure just by looking, start by figuring out which direction your windows face.
Generally speaking, south-facing windows give bright light, east & west-facing windows give moderate light, and north-facing windows give low light.
If there’s something outside your window—for example, a large tree or building—that could obstruct sunlight, make sure to take that into consideration, too. Most houseplants prefer bright, indirect sunlight, but many can tolerate lower light levels (like low light tolerant snake plants and ZZ plants).
Tip #2 - Pick plants that work with your schedule
busy work schedule, social life, and general forgetfulness can lead to unintentional plant neglect. It’s okay. Some plants can handle that kind of lifestyle
Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant succulents, ZZ Plant or Snake plants all are pretty low maintenance, as long as they have enough light.
If you’ve got more time, you can try a few attention-loving air plants, orchids, or ferns.
"To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow." – Audrey Hepburn
Tip #3 - Be mindful when watering
It’s better to under water your plants than to overwater. Too much water can lead to root rot. Ditch your watering schedule and water your plant only when it needs it. Check the potting mix or soil first to make sure it’s dry at least 2 inches deep below the surface. If your soil looks dark in color, feels moist, and sticks to your finger, your plant has enough water to do it’s thing for now.
Tip #4 - Raise humidity levels when needed
Staying true to your plant's natural environment will help your plant thrive indoors. Most tropical plants prefer high humidity and bright to moderate, indirect light. During the dry months of winter, grouping similar plants together helps to create a more humid microclimate.
Tip #5 - Always keep temperatures stable
Keep your plant’s home environment as stable as possible. Extreme changes can stress plants out. Avoid placing your plants near radiators, A/C units, and forced-air vents, which can create hot or cold drafts.
Tip #6 - Know when to skip the fertilizer
Be mindful when using fertilizer on your houseplants. Too much fertilizer can do more harm than good. Houseplants tend to not need fertilizer as often as outdoor plants do. If you do choose to fertilize your plant, it’s best to do so during the growing season. Ensure you follow instructions while feeding your plants.
Tip #7 - Shop Wise
If you're a first time plant parent, avoid large supermarkets where plants are usually stored in basements or dark warehouses. Check your plant out for yellow leaves, powdery mildew, strange spots, mush and weak stems as these are signs of an unhealthy plant.
Tip #8 - Shower your plant with TLC
Once your plant has been delivered to your door or brought home from your local store, it will need a few weeks to adjust to its new environment. Show your plant a little extra attention in the beginning. Observing your plant will tell you when to water and when to not, if the temperature is too high or too low, and if it’s getting enough sun. Plus they’re so pleasing to look at.
Tip #9 - Don’t be scared to repot
A common misconception, "repotting" does not necessarily mean putting your plant in a new planter, but rather, changing out your plant’s soil with fresh potting mix to provide new nutrients. Plants typically need to be repotted every 12 to 18 months, depending on how actively they are growing.
Tip #10 - Keep drainage in mind
If you tend to have a heavy hand when watering your plants, keep drainage in mind. You can opt for a planter with a drainage hole and saucer, keep your plant in
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