All plants whether they live inside or out, must have light and water to
live. The amount depends upon the plant
and where it is placed. Indoor plants need you to enable them to meet their
needs. So it is your job to get to know your space and get to know your plants.
This way you can place them where they will get the light they need and than
all you need to do is water.
Over and under watering are the greatest sources of plant problems so make
sure you get to know the plants you select. Some plants need water on a weekly basis;
others (cacti, for example) can get by on once a month.
To make sure your houseplants are getting the water they need, check them no
less than once a week. Do this for all plants. use the finger test to determine
if it is time to water. Pick any finger and insert it into the soil up to the
first knuckle. If the soil is dry, water, if it is wet do not.
Remember when the seasons change the conditions indoors change and the need
to give your plants water may also change. Your best security is to take a
regular look at your houseplants. Are there any changes? Are the leaves
beginning to yellow? Are they falling off? Is the plant drooping? All these may
be a sign of too much or too little water. Use the finger test.
A side benefit of paying attention to your houseplants is that when you
inspect them on a regular interval, say every third day, you can spot other
problems, say white fly, before it becomes a major threat.
Make sure to let the water you use warm to room temperature before watering,
otherwise, if the water is cold, the plants may get a shock. This is not likely
to kill them but can slow their growth down.
Plants add beauty, colour and texture to a room, take care
of them and they will return your attentions many times over.
african violet
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