If you have a house plant for the first time, you must know that other things are needed for its care besides watering. No, it does not require a lot of effort and constant attention, although there are principles of care that should be taken into account so that the plant is healthy and lasts a long time. This blog will help you with that.
Watering
Of course, watering is mandatory, but all house plants need watering more or less differently. For example: cacti need less water, flowering plants need more. Too much water often causes the plant to shrivel, so it's better to water less than to over-moisten the soil. The plant should be watered not according to the schedule, but taking into account the dryness of the soil. When the upper part of the soil is dry up to three centimeters, it means that the plant needs watering.
Fertilizer
Fertilization of the plant depends on the growth rate of the plant and the time of year. Most houseplants grow in the spring and summer, so this is the best time to fertilize. Like overwatering, too much fertilizer is harmful because it burns the roots. All fertilizers have instructions on the label, which should be followed when using.
transplant
If the plant no longer fits in the pot, it means that it is time to transplant it. Keep in mind, it is not necessary to transplant into a too big pot. But if you want to leave it in the same pot, cut off some of the roots with a sharp knife and plant it again in the same pot. Spring and summer are the best time to apply fertilizer and transplant.
Dust removal
Plants get dusty, so washing and cleaning is mandatory. The plant should be washed with room temperature water, with a gentle shower or wet a soft brush and clean it like that. For plants with smooth leaves, you can use a soft cloth and carefully remove the dust. Cleaning the plant is not only for cleanliness and beauty, but also for it to receive light better.
Pruning
You can prune the plant at any time, but it is best in the fall, because after the summer it will have finished growing and will have excess parts to remove. Remove shriveled, diseased leaves and stems. Cut the tip of the stem and the upper leaves so that the buds do not interfere with their growth. Plants that grow quickly should be pruned often.
Protection from insects
Most of the insects that damage houseplants are so small that you may not even notice them. A shower removes insects well, and alcohol is also effective. Pay attention that the soil is not too wet, because some pests cling to wet soil and it is necessary to dry and clean the soil to get rid of them, and if the insects still cling to it, replanting in another soil is the solution.
Plants, in addition to becoming part of the decoration and beautifying the interior, their care calms a person. Therefore, if you decide to add a plant, you have made a very good decision.