We’ve all gone to a shop and picked up a beautiful plant or flower without really considering how to take care of it. We often find that we bring it home and lovingly care for it like one of our own but sooner or later you overwater it, or leave it in direct sunlight too long and the poor plant suffers the consequences.
So, before you bring any more innocent greenery home, why not check out these tips from some experienced gardeners.
Find the perfect match
Our favourite tip is to buy flowers or plants that fit your lifestyle. It's important to understand that not every plant (no matter how gorgeous it is) will be a good match for you. There are a lot of plants out there so you need to consider which ones will work for you. Do you need easy-care plants, pet-friendly plants, or plants that thrive on neglect? If you're unsure it's best to start with some easy-care plants and grow from there.
Choose the right spot in your home.
Light exposure is one of the most important things to consider. Too much or too little can lead to another plant joining the foliage graveyard. Most plants come with care tips that let you know how much exposure they need. Make sure you have a space in your home that matches their needs before you buy them.
Don't OVERWATER your plants by choosing the right pot.
It can be tricky to find the right balance between watering and overwatering. It is the most likely culprit of your indoor plant joining your compost pile! Choosing the right pot can make a big difference too. If you are planting into a terracotta pot be sure to get one with drainage holes to help remove excess water and avoid root rot. Check out this article to learn more about the different kinds of pots available and their pros and cons.
Clean the leaves.
Carefully clean your plant leaves once or twice a year. Surprisingly this dust can prove fatal if left unchecked as it makes it harder for them to breathe. There are a few different ways to do this, from carefully wiping them with a damp cloth to spraying them outside with a hose. The spruce lists all the different methods available and when they are appropriate.
We would love to see some of your plant pictures on your property profile, happy gardening!
A few final tips to keep your household plants healthy
Spin your plant so they grow more evenly and not lopsided.
Take them outside during summer days and leave them in the shade.
Prune brown leaves
Don’t fertilise in the winter, only in the spring and summer.
Use good quality potting soil