- Water plants regularly and make sure they have good drainage.
- Different types of plants require different levels of sunlight and water, so do research.
- Install custom window shutters to control the amount of sun your plants receive.
- Increase humidity by grouping plants or placing them on a tray with water.
- Use high-quality fertilizer and rotate plants regularly.
People love indoor plants for their beauty and ability to improve air quality in their homes. But do you know how to keep them alive and thriving? Plenty of plant care myths and misconceptions exist, so knowing what advice to follow can be challenging.
Many people think all indoor plants need lots of bright light and frequent watering. But that’s not always the case. Different types of plants require different levels of sunlight and water. Researching your specific plant type is a smart way to ensure you know how best to take care of it. Here are some tips:
Watering
The most important aspect of plant care is watering. The tricky part is knowing when and how much to water. Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves, while underwatering can cause wilting and browning leaves.
A good guideline is to check if the top inch of soil is dry to determine when it’s time to water. Also, ensure your pot has good drainage to prevent water from sitting at the bottom. Use room temperature water and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal growth.
Light
It’s important to remember that plants need sunlight, like any living thing, to stay healthy. Regularly giving your indoor plants access to sunlight can make all the difference in their overall health and appearance. That being said, ensuring that your plants get enough sunlight can sometimes be tricky when dealing with windows constantly being opened and closed.
This is where installing custom window shutters in your home can be helpful. They will add an extra layer of style to your home decor and make it much easier to control the amount of sunlight your plants receive.
Humidity
Indoor plants typically prefer humid environments, but our homes are often dry. One way to increase humidity is to group or place plants with water on a tray of pebbles. Misting the leaves can also provide some relief. If you live in a particularly dry climate, a humidifier can be a game-changer for your plants.
Also, be sure to check for pests and bugs every now and then. If you see any, use a pesticide or an insecticidal soap solution to get rid of them.
Fertilizing
While some potting soil brands come with fertilizer included, most plants will benefit from being fed regularly. Use a high-quality fertilizer designed for indoor plants and follow the instructions carefully. Over-fertilizing can be as harmful as not fertilizing at all, so don’t be tempted to use more than recommended.
In addition, rotating your plants regularly will help them grow evenly and promote photosynthesis. This is a simple but effective way to keep your plants looking lusher and healthier.
The Best Indoor Plants for Your Home
Finding the right indoor plant for your home can seem daunting, but with a little research, you’ll be able to find the perfect one. Here are some great options that are easy to take care of:
Snake Plant
The snake plant is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance plant that can adapt to different environments. It’s known to be one of the best indoor plants as it thrives in low light and prefers infrequent watering. In addition, this plant can help clean the air by removing toxins like formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and benzene.
ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant is a great option for those who don’t have a lot of space, as it grows vertical rather than wide. It’s also great for those who want a plant that requires minimal care. This plant can tolerate low light and irregular watering, so it’s perfect for those who travel frequently or have a busy schedule. Purifying the air is another added bonus of having a ZZ plant.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is popular among plant lovers as it’s beautiful and easy to care for. It requires moderate to bright light and weekly watering. Its large leaves make it a statement piece that can turn any room into a tropical paradise. This plant can help increase humidity levels, filter indoor air, and reduce the amount of airborne dust.
Spider Plant
The spider plant is another low-maintenance plant that’s perfect for beginners. It’s a fast-growing plant that can produce baby spiders that can be clipped off and replanted. This plant prefers indirect sunlight and only needs to be watered once every two weeks. Spider plants are great for removing formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and xylene from the air.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your indoor plants healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to having a thriving indoor garden in no time. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you make a few mistakes along the way; plants are resilient and can rebound if given the proper care. Remember to enjoy the process and beauty these plants bring to your home. Happy planting!
