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Growing plants at home is an excellent idea. They are not only beautiful but also excellent for purifying the air. They remove air pollutants from your space and promote a general sense of well-being. Gardening is a wonderful hobby and form of exercise. Here are a few wise ways to grow plants at home.
1. Water them As Necessary
Recognize when your plants need water. Even though water is essential, you must be careful to avoid overwatering. In most cases, your plants are better off reasonably dry than sopping wet. Your aim should be to keep the soil moist without making it soggy. However, the rules are different for succulents. They need specific periods of soaking.
Most plants only need to be watered twice a week. Add water into your potting soil until its tarts trickling out through the drainage holes. When unsure of whether you need to water, do a simple test. Stick a finger a few inches into the soil. If it is dry, your plants need a drink.
2. Choose the Right Pot
Pick a pot that suits your plant. While size is important, it isn’t all that matters. Consider its drainage abilities, size, and material. Both the height and width of the post must be proportional to your plant. When your plants outgrow their pots, transplant them to bigger homes.
While starting your plants in a bigger pot may seem like a good idea, it isn’t. The roots may be unable to absorb moisture fats, and Most are losing it to drainage. If you need a hanging pot, plastic is your best option because it is lightweight. It holds water very well.
3. Provide Enough Lighting
Ensure that your plants receive sufficient light. If you have houseplants, this can be a challenge. Even though different houseplants have different light requirements, you’ll probably need the use of grow lights. Learn more about them here. Except for succulents, your houseplants need indirect light. If you only have a handful of plants, positioning them well close to windows may be enough. If, however, you have lots of plants or an entire garden, growing lights are a necessity. They are essential during the winter months.
4. Temperature, Ventilation, and Humidity
Some research will help you determine the ideal temperature for your plants. Most of them flourish at 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. At night, the temperatures may be about ten degrees cooler. The humidity levels should be fairly similar to outside conditions.
Some air plants absorb all the humidity from the air. Therefore, they may need regular misting, and others require proper airflow. Condensation that remains on their leaves can be harmful. Consider having a fan close to the plants to promote air circulation.
5. Use the Appropriate Soil
Choose the right potting soil for your plants. The right soil will help your roots grow. It promotes a balance of water absorption, nutrition, and aeration. Potting soil is generally a mix of perlite, shredded pine bark, peat moss, and vermiculite. You will find it in most garden centers. If possible, consider choosing a potting soil that matches the specific needs of your plant. For example, succulents need sandy and porous soils, but orchids may require fast-draining soil.
6. Use Fertilizer and Refresh the Soil
Replenishing the nutrients in your pot soil promotes the growth of healthy plants. Ideally, it would be best if you fertilized your plants at least once every month. Fertilize when they are flowering or growing and take a break during the winter months. It is okay to pause or stop your fertilizer regimen when the plants are stagnant. However, there are no general rules. All plants are different, and they have different needs.
Refreshing your soil is an excellent idea. Get your plant out of its pot, try trimming the root ball back, and place it in a different pot of the same size. Use some fresh potting soil. If your plant is pot-bound, consider breaking up a part of the root ball.
Beautiful and healthy plants are the perfect way to fill your space with life and color. Whether you have a few potted plants or an entire jungle, the basic principles of caring for them are the same.
One of the most amazing things about indoor plants is that they can match your home décor. The pots also come in different colors, textures, and sizes to accentuate different styles. Some of the essential tips for beginner gardeners include watering them just enough, using the right pot soil, providing enough lighting, and using fertilizer to nourish them. Note that all plants are different, and what works for one won’t necessarily work for another one. When in doubt, seeking professional help is always a good idea.