Did you know that more than 60% of Americans prefer having houseplants in their homes over any other type of greenery? House plants have been very popular over the past few years, and for very good reason.
However, there are some common mistakes with indoor plant care that can cause your plants to suffer. Here are six common mistakes people make with indoor plants and how to avoid them.
Read on!
- Over or Underwatering
When it comes to how much and how often you should water the plants, it really depends on the types of plants. While some plants may need daily watering, others can go for longer periods without water.
To avoid overwatering and underwatering plants, it is important to keep an eye on the soil. If it feels dry, it may need to be watered, while if it feels soggy or has standing water, then it may have already been overwatered.
- Not Getting Enough Sun & Light
When it comes to tending indoor plants, not receiving enough sunlight can often be the downfall of their health and vibrancy. Without enough light, photosynthesis will not occur, and the plant will be unable to produce the energy it needs to thrive.
For optimal light exposure, ensure that the plant is placed near a window with at least 6 hours of sunlight a day and rotate the plants regularly to ensure even exposure.
- Planting in Pots Without Drainage Holes
When planting in pots without drainage holes, the soil and water become trapped, creating a moisture-rich environment that can become very unhealthy for the plant.
Ensure that you choose pots with drainage holes and use well-draining soil and water according to the specific needs of the houseplant in question. The best interior plant service providers can also help identify the best pots for your indoor plants.
- Over Fertilizing
Too much fertilizer applied in too short a time can cause root burn as well as the death of the plant. Fertilizer should be used sparingly and lightly applied, more so near the roots, with good drainage and soil aeration to help with ample uptake.
Taking regular soil tests to monitor nutrient levels will help ensure that just the right amount of fertilizer gets used for optimum growth and health for your indoor plants.
- Repotting Incorrectly
Over-potting a plant can cause root rot due to soil remaining too wet for too long and may also lead to an overall decrease in the health of the plant.
Under-potting can also cause a plant to become stunted due to the lack of sufficient space for the roots. Make sure that when selecting the right surface area for your plant’s pot, you allow for an inch or two of extra space for the roots to fill.
- Wrong Plants for Your Space
Carefully consider the size of the space and the amount of light and airflow available. If the plant requires a lot of light and you don’t have much available, consider a plant requiring less.
It’s important to do research on the plants you are interested in to make sure they are suitable for your environment and that they don’t require a lot of special upkeep.
Understanding Mistakes With Indoor Plant Care
Indoor plants are a great way to add life to your home, as there are thousands of varieties available. With the right care, they can add beauty and personality to your home.
However, by avoiding the common mistakes with indoor plant care, you can ensure that your plants stay healthy and thrive.
For more inspiration, advice, and fun facts, check out our site!
