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How to Stop Killing Your Houseplants

Dead Peace Lily in Washington Township BathroomIf you are like many people, you do not have a great track record with regards to keeping houseplants alive. For individuals who are a bit foliage-challenged, caring for houseplants can seem a challenging and mysterious task. However, it doesn’t have to be. By following a couple of easy steps, you can stop killing your houseplants and begin enjoying their natural beauty in your Washington Township rental home.

Step 1: Choose Hardy Plants

To grow healthy houseplants, begin with the right kind of plant. There are several different houseplant varieties, many of which are quite sturdy and can withstand a little neglect. When buying a plant, search for one that is healthy, green, and bushy. Avoid plants that appear dry, wilted, or spotted. Once you bring your plant home, conduct some research, and make sure you have the correct size and style of pot, as well as some high-quality potting soil. Many plants need a little space to develop, so choose a pot slightly larger than your plant currently needs. Likewise, choose a pot with holes in the bottom for drainage. Remember to place something to catch the drainage to avoid damage to your furnishings or property.

Step 2: Get the Light Just Right

In the same vein in real estate, with regards to houseplants, location matters. Select an area that gets the kind of light your houseplant needs. Many indoor plants do really well in indirect sunlight, but some require a little direct sun every day to flourish. Make sure you understand what kind of sunlight your plant needs, and choose a place that will suit the requirement.

Other than finding the right sunlit spot for your houseplant, attempt to avoid exposing your plant to any other environmental factors that might harm it. It’s best to get your plant far from cold drafts, hot air blowing on it from your furnace, too much moisture or humidity, or inadequate moisture. If that seems like a test, it probably is. But with some planning and creativity, you can easily find the best place for your plant to grow.

Step 3: Water Correctly

Watering a houseplant incorrectly is the main factor why they end up dying. It tends to be a test to know how much water to give your plant, how often to water it, and so forth. An overall guideline is to keep the soil around your houseplant moist but not soaked. Too much water can bring about unwanted pests, plant diseases, and, eventually, the death of your houseplant. To test the dryness of the soil, stick a finger into it approximately an inch deep. If the soil feels dry, add water. Use a watering can with a long spout to pour the water directly onto the earth (do not water a plant on the leaves), and go gradually until the soil is moist, but water is not pooling on top.

If you feel a hard time remembering to water your houseplants, several different types of watering devices can help. Simply setting a reminder on your calendar or any device might help you remember to check your houseplant regularly. What is more, there are both high-tech and low-tech options that can help you manage the moisture levels in your houseplant’s soil, guaranteeing a long and healthy life.

Step 4: Groom and Feed

All plants need extra nourishment occasionally and also must be pruned or trimmed. Different plants have several nutrient needs, so don’t forget to explore what kind of plant food is recommended for your specific plant. You may also get useful tips at your local nursery or garden center. To keep your plant looks attractive, trim off any yellow or dying leaves, dry flowers, and so forth. This will encourage your houseplant to make fresh leaves or blooms and keep your plant looking and feeling good, as well.

Even though caring for a houseplant can be a test, it’s not hard to do. With some cautious planning and research, you can surely manage your houseplant and appreciate its natural beauty for many years to come.

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