I've recently developed a strong interest in houseplants and have been diving deep into potting mediums and care techniques. I previously owned a Monstera Adansonii and a Tradescantia Zebrina but didn't pay much attention to them. Now I've added several new plants to my collection including a Thai Constellation, a Snake Plant, and a ZZ Raven. I'm looking for advice as I embark on this new adventure into the world of houseplants! What should I know?
1 Answer
Here are my go-to tips for beginners:
1. **Light Placement**: It’s tough to give indoors plants too much light but super easy to place them in too dark an area! Keep them close to windows or use strong grow lights.
2. **Breathing Soil**: Make sure your soil has good airflow because roots need oxygen! If the soil is too compact, it can suffocate the roots, leading to unhappy plants. Consider mixing in perlite or pumice.
3. **Pot Choice**: Different pots have different properties. Unglazed terracotta pots are great for airflow and drying out well, but plastic pots hold moisture better. Keep your plant's needs in mind when picking pots.
4. **Personal Care Guides**: Don't stick to care guides too rigidly. Every home is different, so learn what works in your space. Research the plant's origin for the best care.
5. **Embrace Mistakes**: We all make them! Learn from each one and enjoy the journey to becoming a seasoned plant parent.
6. **Fertilization**: Be cautious with fertilizers. Too much can damage your plants, so it’s better to under-fertilize.
Welcome to the hobby! There’s always something new to learn!
This is amazing advice! I’d add that for aerating soil, sometimes you can use a long toothpick to create tiny passages in the soil, just like worms would in nature. It’s a simple way to keep your soil from getting too packed!