If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought to the care and maintenance of your houseplants. You water them when they seem dry, maybe fertilize them once in a while, and that’s about it. However, if you want your plants to stay healthy and thrive, there’s a bit more care involved. And while it might seem like a lot of work, once you get into a routine, it’s not that bad.
Therefore, in this article, we’re going to explore some of the top tips and tricks you must follow to take care of your houseplants the right way. So whether you are a plant parent newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone.
Water Them Correctly
One of the most important aspects of plant care is watering. And while it might seem pretty straightforward, there’s a bit of a science to it. First of all, you need to know how often to water your plants. This will vary depending on the type of plant, as well as the time of year and the humidity levels in your home. Generally speaking, most plants need to be watered about once a week. However, during the hotter months, you might need to water them more frequently.
It’s also important to water your plants at the right time of day. The best time to do this is in the morning or evening when the sun isn’t at its hottest. This will help prevent evaporation and ensure that your plants get the water they need.
And since every plant has different watering needs it is best to check the soil before you water. Stick your finger in the soil up to the first joint and if it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it feels moist, wait a few days and check again. Another helpful watering tip is to use lukewarm water. This will help prevent shock to the plant’s system and ensure that the roots can absorb as much water as possible.
Fertilize Them Regularly
Another important aspect of plant care is fertilization. This is especially important for plants that are grown in pots, as they tend to deplete the nutrients in the soil more quickly than plants that are grown in the ground. Therefore, it’s important to fertilize your plants regularly. As noted by the folks from Urban Organic Yield, the frequency with which you need to do this will vary depending on the type of plant and the fertilizer you are using. However, as a general rule of thumb, most plants need to be fertilized about once a month.
When choosing a fertilizer, be sure to pick one that is specifically designed for use on houseplants. These types of fertilizers are typically lower in concentration than those that are designed for use on outdoor plants. This is because too much fertilizer can damage your plants. Therefore, it’s important to follow the directions on the fertilizer packaging carefully so that you don’t end up doing more harm than good.
Give Them The Right Amount Of Sunlight
Just like people, plants need sunlight to grow and thrive. However, the amount of sunlight they need will vary depending on the type of plant. For example, succulents and cacti need quite a bit of sunlight, whereas ferns and other shade-loving plants do better in low-light conditions. Therefore, it’s important to research the specific needs of your plant before you choose a spot for it in your home.
In general, most plants do best when they are placed near a south- or west-facing window. This will ensure that they get plenty of sunlight throughout the day. However, if you don’t have a south- or west-facing window, don’t worry. There are plenty of plants that can thrive in lower-light conditions. Just be sure to do your research so that you choose a plant that is well suited for the amount of sunlight in your home.
Prune Them Regularly
Pruning is another important aspect of plant care. Not only does it help to keep your plants looking their best, but it also helps to encourage new growth. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean shears. This will help prevent disease and ensure that your cuts are clean and even.
It’s also important to prune your plants at the right time of year. For most plants, this is in the spring. However, there are a few exceptions. For example, cacti and succulents should be pruned in the summer. On the other hand, plants that bloom in the spring, such as azaleas and camellias, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. This will help ensure that they have plenty of time to recover before they need to produce new flowers.
Re-pot Them When Necessary
Re-potting is another important aspect of plant care. This is especially important for fast-growing plants, as they will quickly outgrow their pots. Therefore, it’s important to check on your plants regularly and re-pot them when necessary. The frequency with which you need to do this will vary depending on the type of plant and its growth rate. However, as a general rule of thumb, most plants need to be re-potted about once a year.
When re-potting, be sure to use a pot that is only slightly larger than the one your plant is currently in. This will help prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged and ensures that the plant has enough room to grow. It’s also important to use fresh potting soil when you re-pot your plants and avoid using garden soil, as it can contain harmful toxins that can damage your plants. Using fresh organic soil will help provide them with the nutrients they need to continue growing strong and healthy.
Get Rid Of Pests
Pests can be a big problem for houseplants. Not only can they cause damage to the plants themselves, but they can also spread diseases. Therefore, it’s important to check your plants regularly for signs of pests and take steps to get rid of them as soon as possible.
There are several different ways to get rid of pests on houseplants. The most common method is to use insecticidal soap or neem oil. These products are safe for use on most plants and will help kill off any pests that are currently present. However, it’s important to read the directions carefully before using them, as some plants are more sensitive than others and may be damaged by these products.
If you’re having trouble getting rid of pests, you may want to consider bringing in a professional. They will be able to identify the problem and recommend the best course of action.
Even though taking care of houseplants may seem like a lot of work, as you can see, it’s quite simple. By following these tips, you can be sure that your plants will stay healthy and look their best. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy having beautiful plants in your home for years to come.
Photo via Unsplash
.
.
