A beginner's guide to indoor plant care

Indoor plants are quite the buzz right now, especially placing them next to the TV stand or out on the balcony.

Image: Courtesy

Welcome to the world of indoor gardening! Adding lush greenery to your home not only beautifies your living space but also offers numerous health and wellness benefits.

Indoor plants are quite the buzz right now, especially placing them next to the TV stand or out on the balcony.

I know you've seen them, on almost all YouTuber's videos whether local or international.7

Whether you're a seasoned plant enthusiast or a first-time plant parent, caring for indoor plants can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience besides making your house look chic.

 

In this guide, we'll explore some simple yet effective tips to ensure your indoor plants thrive and bring nature's charm into your space.

1) Choose the right plants:

Before you dive into the world of indoor gardening, consider the environment of your home.

 

Some plants require more light, while others thrive in low-light conditions. Research and select plants that align with your space and lifestyle. For beginners, low-maintenance plants like pothos, snake plants, and spider plants are excellent choices.

2) Light, the elixir of life:

Sunlight is vital for plant growth, but not all indoor plants need direct sunlight. Observe the lighting conditions in various areas of your home and place your plants accordingly... see why point one is super important.

A girl posing next to healthy indoor plants
Image: HANNIE PETRA

South-facing windows receive the most light, while north-facing windows are best for low-light plants. Keep an eye on your plants and adjust their positions as needed.

3)Water wisely:

Over watering is a common mistake made by new plant parents. Each plant has unique water requirements, and it's essential to understand them.

As a general rule, check the top inch of the soil by pressing your index finger into it before watering.

If it's dry, water the plant thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot.

Be cautious not to let your plants sit in standing water, as it can lead to root rot.

4) Feed with Love:

Indoor plants don't have access to the nutrients present in natural soil. To keep them healthy and happy, fertilize them regularly during the growing season (usually spring and summer)

A section of a leaf of a wilted house plant
Image: HANNIE PETRA

A easy quick solve for fertilizer is tea leaves! Yes, you read that correctly. Tea is naturally high in tannic acid and nitrogen, which helps fertilizes the soil in which your grow plants grow.

Watering your plants with leftover tea hydrates and generally helps nourish

During the dormant season (usually autumn and winter), reduce or stop fertilizing altogether.

5) Prune for Perfection:

Pruning is an essential aspect of plant care that helps maintain their shape and encourages new growth.

Trim yellowing or dead leaves, and pinch off leggy stems to promote bushier growth. Regularly remove dust from the leaves with a damp cloth to allow them to breathe and photosynthesize effectively

6) Keep an Eye on Pests

Just like outdoor plants, indoor plants can also fall victim to pests. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of pests, such as webbing, sticky residue, or chewed leaves.

If you notice any issues, act promptly with natural remedies or gentle insecticidal soap to avoid infestations.

7) Understand Your Plant's Language:

Plants communicate their needs through their appearance.

Learn to recognize the signs of distress, such as drooping leaves, browning tips, or wilting, which may indicate over watering, under watering, or insufficient light. Responding to your plant's cues promptly will help you become a skilled plant parent.

In conclusion caring for indoor plants is a delightful journey that allows you to connect with nature and transform your living space into a green oasis.

So, go ahead and embark on this green adventure, and may your indoor plants thrive and bloom abundantly!

Happy gardening!

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