Happy New Year - Happy New Houseplants!
January can seem a bit bleak with the decorations and lights down after Christmas, and the house can even feel a bit empty. What's the solution to lift your spirits and brighten up your home? HOUSEPLANTS! Adding that simple touch of green really helps to make a home look cosy and adds a freshness to the room. There's a houseplant for everyone and almost any situation, whether you're a novice or a houseplant pro! Want something high impact? Why not choose a larger plant as a focal point in your room. Or maybe you prefer something small which you can watch grow on - this is also a really good way of getting kids interested in plants.
Here's our top tips to ensure that you keep your plants looking fresh all year round!
Watering
Different types of houseplants require different amounts of water, so always do your research on what your plant needs. Cacti and Succulents prefer less water than some of the leafier specimens. If the pot feels light and the soil looks dry then it's time to water. If you are unsure, you can always check by putting your finger in the soil and if it feels dry further down the pot it's definitely time to water. Make sure you soak the soil evenly, and never leave any plant sat in water for longer than 30 minutes. Always make sure you drain away any excess. You will find that you need to water more frequently in summer than you do in autumn and winter. Try to avoid overwatering plants as this can lead to fungus gnats and root rot.
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Misting
Many houseplants benefit from regular misting. This increases the humidity around the plants, which in turn keeps your tropical plants happy, creating conditions more similar to their natural environment.
Pests
It's important to keep regularly checking your plants to avoid problems with pests. But don't worry if you do discover that your plant has a few unwanted hitchhikers. The most common pests on houseplants tend to be fungus gnats, mealy bugs, aphids, spider mites and scale. First things first, 'quarantine' the plant in a room far away from any other houseplants. Cut off and dispose of any badly damaged leaves, Wash off aphids with water, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil or if your infestation has gotten really bad there are sprays you can find in the garden centre to get on top of the problem. With fungus gnats, they like moist soil, so as previously mentioned avoid overwatering, and try adding a layer of grit or gravel to the top of your soil, this prevents the gnats from getting in.
Placement
Finding the right place in your home is crucial to ensure that your plant will flourish. Try to avoid putting plants right next to radiators as this can dry out their leaves, turning them brown and crispy. Avoid cold, draughty spots as most houseplants (there are a few exceptions) will not enjoy this environment. Bathrooms and kitchens tend to be good for plants which require higher levels of humidity. Generally speaking, somewhere warm but out of constant direct sunlight will work for the vast majority of houseplants. You may find that you need to move your plant a little closer to a window in the winter as there is less light available. However do a little research about your plant, you can find out plenty on the internet, in houseplant books, and of course you can always ask one of our Plant Team to find out more information.
There's so many wonderful plants to choose from, and with just a little bit of know how, you can ensure your plants look their best and cheer up your home. We have a wonderful selection in store now, so there's no need to be blue this January, be green!
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