If you’re new to indoor plant care, you may be wondering where to start. For instance, how often should you water your plants? What kind of light do they need? What’s the best way to fertilize them? This article will focus on plant basics, for keeping your plants healthy and happy indoors. 

Now, keep in mind that these are generalized plant care tips. Every plant is different and will have specific needs, so be sure to follow the instructions for your plant species. With that being said, let’s dive into some plant basics.

Watering

It’s no surprise that watering is one of the key pieces of plant care. It’s essential to give your plants the right amount of water, as either too much or too little can be detrimental to their health. While overwatering can lead to root rot, underwatering can cause your plants to wilt and dry out.

To water your plants, check the soil before watering. If the soil is dry to the touch, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, wait a bit longer. Once you’ve determined that it’s time to water, give your plants a thorough soaking. Allow the water to run through until it’s draining out of the bottom of the pot.

Don’t forget to empty any drainage trays after watering, as standing water can lead to problems like the above-noted root rot.

Now, while the watering schedule will vary for individual plants, a good rule of thumb is to water once a week. Of course, this will also depend on factors like the plant’s size, type, and potting mix. For example, plants in terracotta pots will dry out faster than those in plastic pots.

Light

All plants need light to grow, but each one has different light requirements. For example, some plants need direct light while others thrive in indirect or low light.

So, when choosing a spot for your plant, be clear about the type of light it needs, and be sure to place it in an area that meets its light requirements.

If you’re not sure how much light your plant is getting, consider using a light meter to measure the light intensity. 

     You can use a grow light to give your plants the light they need, even if they’re not in a spot that gets enough natural light. This way, you can place your plants wherever you want without being concerned about whether they’re getting enough light.

Fertilizing

Fertilizing is another important component when it comes to plant basics. Plants need food (fertilizer) to grow, just like people do. The type of fertilizer you’ll need will depend on the plant you’re growing. Most plants will need a fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

You can find fertilizers specifically designed for houseplants at your local garden center. When applying fertilizer, make sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully. Over-fertilizing can damage your plant, so it’s important to be careful.

Generally speaking, you want to fertilize your plants every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). And during the dormant season (winter), you can reduce the frequency to once a month.

Potting Soil

When it comes to plant basics, potting soil is crucial. A good potting soil will provide your plants with the right amount of drainage and aeration and still retain enough moisture and nutrients for growth. 

Here are some things to consider when choosing potting soil:

1, Look for soil that is pre-mixed. A premixed potting soil will save you time and hassle in the long run. 

2, Make sure that the soil you choose has good drainage. Otherwise, your plants may suffer from root rot or other problems. 

3, Be sure the soil is aerated. Aeration is important for plant growth because it allows for good oxygenation of the roots.

4, When choosing potting soil, consider the composition. Some are made with coir, which is a fiber extracted from coconut shells. Others contain perlite or vermiculite, both of which help keep the soil aerated. Read the label carefully when choosing potting soil, and make sure you choose one that’s best for your plants!

Pests and Diseases

Unfortunately, even the best-cared-for plants can sometimes fall prey to pests and diseases. Some common plant pests include aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage to your plant by sucking its sap or eating its leaves.

Common plant diseases include botrytis (gray mold), powdery mildew, and root rot. These diseases can cause your plant to wilt, discolor, and even die.

If you notice any pests or diseases on your plant, it’s important to act right away. There are several pesticides and fungicides specifically designed for use on houseplants. You can find these products at your local garden center.

When using pesticides or fungicides, make sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully. Some products can be harmful to people and pets, so it’s important to be careful.

Temperature

The temperature of your home can also affect plant growth. In general, most plants prefer a temperature between 65 °F and 75 °F (18 °C and 23°C). If the temperature in your home is outside of this range, it’s important to take steps to make sure your plant is comfortable.

If the temperature in your home is too hot or too cold, you can try to adjust the thermostat. You can also try to move your plant to a different location in your home.

Humidity

The humidity of your home can also affect plant growth. Most plants prefer a relative humidity between 40% and 50%. 

If the humidity in your home is too high or too low, you can try to use a humidifier or dehumidifier. Or as noted above with respect to temperature, try moving your plant to a different spot in your home.

Repotting

As your plant grows, it will eventually outgrow its pot. When this happens, it’s important to repot your plant into a larger pot.

When repotting your plant, it’s important to use a pot that’s only slightly larger than the plant. If you use a pot that’s too large, your plant will have a difficult time growing.

Summary

Indoor plants can add a lot of life and color to your home. They brighten up any room and make your home feel more inviting. By following these plant basics, you can successfully grow beautiful plants indoors. So, get started today and enjoy the benefits of having lush, green plants in your home.