Welcome to our care guide, designed to help you enjoy your plants to the fullest. Follow these steps to ensure your plant stays healthy:
Watering
Frequency: There's no one-size-fits-all rule for watering plants. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot. Typically, plants need more water in summer and less in colder months.
Checking Soil Moisture: Check the soil weekly by pressing your finger 1-2 inches into it. Water if the soil is dry; if moist, wait a few days.
Watering Method: Plug your sink or bathtub and fill it to halfway of the pot height with room temperature water. Let your plant soak for 10-30 minutes, then remove to drain and wipe the pot bottom.
Avoid: Avoid leaving your plant sitting in water in its pot - This will lead to rot
Lights
Light Needs: Light requirements vary by plant type. Research online for specific recommendations.
Shade-Loving Plants: If your home lacks natural light, consider shade-tolerant plants like Boston ferns, monstera, rubber plants, peace lilies, and snake plants.
Light Levels: Categorize light as low, medium, or high/direct. Adjust plant placement accordingly.
Climate
Summer Care: Plants grow more in summer and may need more water. Protect from sunburn by keeping shade-loving plants in a cool, shady spot and prune as needed.
Winter Care: Many plants rest in winter and need less water. Place them in sunnier spots, maintain room temperature between 12-18°C, and shield from cold drafts at night.
Additional Plant Care Tips
Reviving distressed plants
Wilted or droopy plants need watering; pale leaves indicate they need more sunlight; brown leaves mean too much sun. Act promptly to revive distressed plants.
The Ice Cube Method
For busy plant owners, place ice cubes on the soil surface, avoiding leaves. As they melt, the soil hydrates slowly. Ideal for orchids to prevent overwatering and root rot.
Allergy Advice for Pets
Common Pet Allergies
Cats and dogs can exhibit allergic reactions to specific types of plants. Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, itching, watery eyes, skin irritation, or gastrointestinal upset if the plant material is ingested.
Safe Plant Choices
Opt for plants that are generally considered safe for pets if you have concerns about allergies. Examples include spider plants, Boston ferns, African violets, air plants, and certain varieties of palms. These plants are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in cats and dogs.
Avoiding Toxic Plants
Some plants are known to be toxic to pets if ingested. Examples include lilies, philodendrons, dieffenbachia, aloe vera, and pothos. Keep these plants out of reach of pets or avoid them altogether if you have cats or dogs in your home.
Monitoring Pet Interaction
Keep a vigilant watch on your pets when plants are present in your home. Prevent them from nibbling on or playing with the plants to avoid potential allergic reactions or ingestion of toxic plant material.
By being aware of potential pet allergies and making informed choices about the plants you bring into your home, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for both you and your furry companions.
Consulting a Veterinarian
If you suspect that your pet has come into contact with a plant and is displaying symptoms of an allergic reaction or toxicity, seek veterinary advice immediately. Prompt treatment can help alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.