Temperatures
and Humidity
Most houseplants do
their best growing when temperatures that are 65° to 70° with night time temperatures at 60° to 65°. Because most houseplants are of a tropical variety they prefer
humidity level of 40 to 50 %; however most homes in our area only have a relative
humidity of 10 to 20%.
Humidifiers are an excellent way to
increase the moisture levels in the winter and summer months. Simply run the humidifier for several hours once a month during the driest periods.
Watering
and Nutrient Needs
House plants need
regular watering; they do best when they don’t dry completely out between
watering. Once the top few inches of soil has become dry it is time for more
water. This rule does not apply to any variety of Cactus or other succulent
plant varieties.
A containerized plant
is completely dependent on you for water and nutrients. It is important to
recognize that every time you water, nutrients are being moved out of the soil.
It is best to start with nutrient rich potting soil when planting. Additionally
using a slow release fertilizer 3 to 4 weeks after re-potting will keep the
nutrients available to the plant.
Ice cubes are a great way to water all indoor plants, place evenly around the plant. The slow release of water lets the root capture the water and keeps it from running out the bottom. Re-potting
your plant
Moving your house
plant into a larger container is a great way to rejuvenate it. Spring
is usually the best time for this however winter can work if you have a healthy plant and are gentle with the root
system.
Indicators
for a plant that needs repotting
· Little to no
growth, the leaves that are produced are smaller than usual
· Roots are showing through the
drainage hole
· Mature leaves are turning yellow
· Water runs straight through the
soil, this is due to more roots than soil
· If salt deposits are visible on
the top of the soil or on the inside of the pot
· If the container is too small
when purchased, it is best to wait 2 to 3 weeks before repotting
Techniques and tools
· Use quality potting soil
· Use a container that is twice as large and has
plenty of good drainage
· Wait 3 to 4 weeks after
re-potting to fertilize
· Keep the plant out of the full
sun for a few weeks; repotted plants are a bit weakened by the process
· Extra humidity helps repotted
plants recover easier
· Keep the soil evenly moist, but
not soggy
· Leaves that are limp or curled
will need more water
· Leaves that are
turning yellow are usually getting to much water
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| My Norfolk Pine |
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| Use ground cover plants to cover soils and rocks |
