Keeping Indoor Plants Alive
From succulent gardens to overflowing macramé plant hangers, the urban jungle trend has dominated 2018 interior design. Not only are adding plants to your home a great way to liven up a space, indoor plants come with numerous health and psychological benefits. According to NASA research, indoor plants absorb up to 87 percent of volatile organic compounds, purifying the air in your home of potential toxins. Having contact with greenery has also been shown to improve mood and concentration, as shown by a study conducted by the University of Michigan citing that being around plants can improve memory retention by 20%. With all the bohemian Pinterest inspiration and ways, they can improve your well-being, you’ve probably already rushed to your local nursery to purchase yourself a green addition to your home, but what most plant owners realize is maintaining a living thing is harder than you think. We’ve all been there, after purchasing an array of vibrant cactuses and ferns, our interest fade and after a few weeks you’re left with limp, yellowing, and dead plants. Here are some common problems and solutions to keep your new green friend alive and well:
You over or under water: On a busy morning one of the lasts things on your mind is tending to your plants, but watering one of the main reasons why plants die within the first weeks of purchase. Very few plants thrive soaked in water, so check how moist the soil is before watering. If the soil is dry to the touch it’s time to water, but if it’s still damp let it dry out. When watering make sure to lift and water around the leaves in order to get as much water into the roots as possible. Ideally, put a saucer under your plant after watering or leave it in the shower to dry out, as the plant will typically drain some of the excess water. Over watering and letting a plant sit in stagnant water will cause root rot over time, a condition in which the roots of the plant die and rot, killing the plant. Adding pebbles to the bottom of your planter will keep water from accumulating at the roots.
You don’t fertilize: Even house plants require fertilizer every once and a while. Unlike outdoor plants which are constantly being exposed to rain and compost, houseplants must rely on the soil they are planted in for nutrients. Fertilizer gives your plant the extra nutrients it needs. Slow release and water-soluble fertilizers are best for house plants as they’re less likely to over fertilize or scorch the leaves. Research your plant to find out how often it needs to be fertilized.
You chose the wrong spot: Be aware of what conditions your plant thrives in while picking a spot to put it, some plants enjoy bright humid areas while others can thrive in a cooler shader rooms. Plants like cactuses and fig trees thrive in direct sunlight, the best place to put them is in bright areas next to windows. If you’re low on light try Ivy or Cast-Iron plant, both can survive in low light and can be placed in the corner of a room. High humidity plants such as ferns should be placed in bathrooms and kitchens as both are typically the most humid parts of a home. Do your research before purchasing a plant, often times a card is attached when purchased with instructions for care. If no information is given when purchased, make sure to ask the species name so you can research its ideal environment. Check out www.houseplant411.com for a common houseplant illustrated guide.
You don’t talk to your plant: As odd as it may seem several scientific studies have been conducted on the effect of human voice on plant growth. According to a study by the Royal Horticultural Society, plants grow faster when routinely spoken to. The National Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology also found that music improved plant growth. Various studies have found that plants responded best to classical music and Indian sitar music. After assessing the water and light levels of your plant, try telling it some encouraging words or playing Mozart next time it starts to wilt.
You’re choosing the wrong plant: Some plants are harder to care for than others, so it’s important to pick a plant that fits your skill level as an indoor gardener. Plants like Miniature roses and Moth orchids are beautiful but require extra care and can become scorched with too much sunlight. Regular fertilization is also necessary in more finicky plants as well as more specific humidity. Below I’ve listed some plants that are relatively hard to kill:
Best indoor plants for people without a green thumb:
Low water:
- Snake Plant
- Succulents
- Aloe
- Barrel Cactus
Low sun:
- Cast Iron Plant
- Calatheas
Fast growing:
- Philodendron
- English Ivy
Overall these simple steps will have you on the way to being a successful plant care giver and will assure that your plants stay alive, glowing, and blooming.