Since May, we’ve ventured beneath the earth, focusing on soil health, root vegetables, and root health. Seeing that it’s still chilly outside, we’re taking it indoors.
That’s right, Garden Masters! This month, we’re diving into some of the essentials to ensure your potted friends are healthy and ready for spring!
Assessing Indoor Plant Needs
H3: Light Levels:
- Optimal Placement: Most indoor plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Position your pots near windows with filtered sunlight.
- Rotate Regularly: Turn your pots every couple of weeks to ensure even light exposure and prevent plants from leaning toward the light source.
Temperature and Humidity:
- Consistent Temperature: Keep indoor plants away from cold drafts, heating vents, and air conditioners. Most prefer temperatures between 15 to 25°C.
- Boost Humidity: Many indoor plants benefit from higher humidity levels. Place plants closer together and add a water tray near your plants to create a more humid environment.
Mastering Watering Techniques
Watering Frequency:
- Check Soil Moisture: Always check if the soil is dry before watering. Over-watering is a common issue, so use a moisture meter or insert your finger into the soil to gauge moisture levels.
- Adjust Schedule: Adapt your watering schedule based on the plant species, pot size, and indoor conditions. Most plants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings.
Choosing the Right Soil and Fertiliser
H3: Potting Mix:
- Quality Soil: Use a high-quality potting mix designed for indoor plants. Avoid garden soil, as it can be too heavy and may contain pests.
- Repotting: Refresh the soil every 1 to 2 years or when plants become root-bound. This ensures they have ample space and fresh nutrients to grow.
Fertilisation
- Feeding Routine: Fertilise your plants every 4 to 6 weeks during their growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertiliser to support overall plant health.
- Avoid Over-Fertilising: Follow instructions carefully to prevent nutrient buildup, which can harm your plants.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Identifying Pests:
- Common Issues: Look out for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves and stems for any signs of infestation. Here’s a quick guideline.
- Treatment: Use natural pest control methods or insecticidal soap to handle pests effectively without harming your plants. Here’s our guide to pest control with household remedies.
Preventing Diseases:
- Watering Practices: Over-watering can lead to root rot and fungal issues. Ensure pots have proper drainage and avoid letting plants sit in standing water. Here’s a quick guide to spotting various plant diseases. We’ve also compiled a guide to understanding root health. Click here.
- Improve Air Circulation: Increase airflow around your plants by spacing them adequately and using fans if necessary.
When to Replant and Transplant
Replanting Signs:
- Root Bound: If roots are growing out of the drainage holes or the plant seems top-heavy, it’s time to replant. Choose a pot 2 to 5 cm larger in diameter than the current one.
- Process: Gently remove the plant from its pot, loosen any compacted roots, and place it in a fresh potting mix. Water thoroughly after replanting.
Transplanting Tips:
- Timing: Ideally, transplant in early spring or autumn when plants are not in peak growth. This reduces stress and helps plants adjust to their new environment.
- Preparation: Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes and use a suitable potting mix.
Basics of Indoor Plant Care
Cleaning Plant Leaves:
- Dust Removal: Dust on plant leaves can block sunlight and reduce photosynthesis. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth or use a soft brush to remove dust. For extra shine and a bit of leaf conditioning, you can use milk diluted with water (1:1 ratio).
- Regular Maintenance: Clean your plants every few weeks to keep them looking fresh and healthy.
Removing Debris:
- Debris Removal: Check for fallen leaves, old flowers, or other debris in the pot. Though you might think this could benefit your plant, it’s quite the contrary. Regularly remove these to prevent mould and pests. A small hand fork or simply your fingers can do the trick.
Pruning:
- Trimming Dead Growth: Regular pruning helps maintain plant shape and promotes new growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and stems with pruners.
- Encouraging Growth: Prune to encourage bushier growth or to control the size of the plant. Make clean cuts just above a node to promote healthy new shoots.
Tanya’s Pot Plant Mathematics: The Thriller, Filler, and Spiller
Creating a visually appealing and balanced potted garden requires understanding the right plant combinations. Tanya’s pot plant mathematics is a simple yet effective formula for achieving a stunning display.
Here’s how it works:
- Thriller: The “thriller” is your plant’s centrepiece, which adds height and drama to your pot. According to Tanya, you should choose a tall, striking plant such as a snake plant or fiddle leaf fig to draw the eye upward.
- Filler: Surround your thriller with “filler” plants that provide volume and fill in the space around the thriller. Tanya suggests opting for medium-sized plants with bushy foliage like pothos or peace lilies.
- Spiller: Finally, include “spiller” plants that cascade over the edges of the pot, adding a soft, flowing effect. Perfect choices according to Tanya include trailing ivy or string of pearls.
By incorporating a thriller, filler, and spiller, you create a dynamic, layered look that ensures your potted plants not only thrive but also enhance your indoor space aesthetically. Use our guide to container gardening to create a stunning indoor plant paradise.
Next Steps
By following these tips and understanding the art of pot plant mathematics as well as the art of container gardening, you can ensure that your indoor garden remains healthy and visually appealing throughout the winter months.
Remember to head to your nearest Makro, Builder’s Warehouse or Game for all the gardening essentials. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for more gardening trends and tips. Happy gardening!
