Welcome to the world of house plants! If you’re a plant lover or have a few house plants around your home, chances are you worry about your ability to look after them properly. Most people have had plants at some point in their lives that have not flourished as much as anticipated. If this sounds like you, here are some tips on how you could be looking after your house plants better.

Our house plants are not just mere decorations, but they are living beings that need our attention and care to thrive. Having house plants offers numerous benefits that can enhance our living space and overall wellbeing. House plants are known to improve air quality by absorbing toxins, increasing humidity, and producing oxygen. In addition, they can boost our mood and reduce stress, promoting a sense of tranquility and relaxation. From a visual perspective, house plants add a touch of natural beauty and elegance, helping to create a more inviting and lively atmosphere. Moreover, tending to house plants can be a therapeutic activity, fostering mindfulness and a connection with nature.

Commonly, people make a few key mistakes when caring for house plants. The most prevalent among these is overwatering. It’s a misconception that more water equals healthier plants. On the contrary, overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases. Another frequent mistake is placing all plants in direct sunlight, disregarding their individual light requirements. Not all plants thrive in direct light; some prefer shade or indirect light.

The lack of confidence in house plant care often stems from a lack of knowledge or experience. Many people fear that they will unintentionally harm their plants, especially if they have had a plant die in the past. This apprehension is compounded by the fact that different plant species have different care requirements, which can be overwhelming to a novice. It’s essential to remember that plant care, much like any other skill, improves with time and practice. By doing a bit of research and showing patience, anyone can become proficient in house plant care.

Here are some key tips on how to take better care of your house plants.

Understand the Difference Between Plants

The first step in becoming a better plant parent is to understand the difference between plants. Start by closely examining your plant and researching its species, as this will give you an idea of what it needs to thrive. Take note of the color and texture of the leaves, type of soil needed, light requirements, water frequency, and temperature preferences.

If you’re growing house plants from seedlings, take care to follow the instructions on the seed pack right from the beginning. Whether you have marigold seeds or cannabis seeds, each and every seed type needs very particular care from the start. And if you get the beginning right, your seeds are much more likely to thrive.

The Right Amount of Water

The next most crucial aspect of plant care is watering. Most house plants come with instructions regarding how frequently and how much water they need. However, the amount of water your plant requires may vary depending on the season, humidity, and other environmental factors.

As a general rule, it’s crucial to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Over-watering is a common mistake that can lead to drowning the plant’s roots and ultimately killing the plant.

On the other hand, underwatering can lead to the soil drying out too much, which can cause the roots to dry up, resulting in plant death. So, ensure you observe your plants closely to determine their watering needs and adjust accordingly.

The Right Amount of Light

Light is essential for photosynthesis in plants, which is the process plants use to create energy to survive. Different plants prefer different lighting conditions, but most house plants thrive in bright indirect sunlight.

Direct sunlight can burn leaves and cause them to turn yellow. Insufficient lighting also affects the overall health of the plant. To determine the right amount of light for your plant, ensure you read the plant’s label or ask at the plant nursery about the plant care requirements.

If you find that the lighting in your home is not sufficient, you can supplement with fluorescent grow lights or LEDs. These lights mimic sunlight and can help your plants thrive even during the dark winter months.

Fertilizer

Fertilizer is like vitamins for your plants. It provides essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, aiding in optimum plant growth, vibrant leaves, and bountiful blooms. Ensure you choose a good-quality fertilizer that meets your plants’ needs.

It’s important to note that over-fertilizing can be detrimental to the plant’s health. Excess fertilizer can lead to a salt buildup in the soil, which can cause root burn and damage the plant. To avoid this, follow the instructions on your chosen fertilizer and resist the urge to overfeed.

Humidity and Temperature Conditions

Most plants thrive in humidity, and keeping a consistent temperature of between 18-21°C (65-70°F) will help keep your plants healthy. However, the temperature requirements vary depending on the type of plant, so it’s essential to research the requirements for your specific plant.

You can increase humidity in the room by placing trays of water near the plants or investing in a humidifier. The ideal humidity range for plants is usually between 40-60%, so aim to keep the humidity within this range.

Repotting

Repotting is important for a plant’s health as it ensures that the plant has enough space for its roots to grow. Most house plants need repotting every year, while some can go for several years before they need to be moved.

When repotting, ensure you choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the current pot to allow the plant room to grow. A good quality potting mix is also crucial to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients to thrive. It’s important to note that you should not repot a plant when it’s in shock or has withered as this may cause it more stress.

Taking care of house plants can be rewarding, but it can also be daunting, especially for beginners. However, with proper care that includes the right amount of light, water, fertilizer, humidity and temperature conditions, and repotting when needed, your plants will thrive and bring life to your home. Remember, plants are living beings that require attention and care, so observe your plants often, learn their habits, and address any issues promptly. A happy plant equals a happy home!