Do you love plants, but just seem to kill every plant buddy you bring home? I have realized that SOO many people are having this problem. They think they don’t have a “green thumb” and resort to fake plants. DON’T BUY THE FAKE PLANTS! The problem probably doesn’t lie with your gardening ability, but more likely with your plant choices.
Here are 5 easy steps to ensure your plant babies will live long happy lives!
- Pick a spot for a plant. This is so important. You want to choose a plant for a specific space. Once you find a spot, take notice of how much sunlight it gets through the day. This is going to help you when choosing a plant.
- When choosing your plant keep in mind the amount of sunlight your designated space receives. If it doesn’t get much light, then a full sun plant will not survive and vice versa. Also take into account the temperature. For example: An orchid is not going to do well on your patio in 85 degree weather.
- When you get your plant home DO NOT immediately repot it. Going into a new space is enough stress for a plant. If you really hate the pot it came in simply set it into a bigger decorative pot or basket. You want to minimize the amount of stress on the plant.
- Do a little research. Take 5-10 minutes to google your plant. How does it like to be watered? Does it go through a dormant season? Familiarize yourself with what the plant needs and how it responds.
- Let Mother Nature do its thing. Make sure you don’t over care for your plant. If your plant is lacking something it will tell you. If you are over watering the leaves may turn yellow. If you aren’t watering enough the leaves may wilt etc. If your plant is looking a little wonky just google it! you will find exactly what your plant needs to be looking happy again.
Now that you know the easy steps, I am going to show you a few easy to care for options.
Alocasia amazoica, commonly known as Elephant’s Ears, is very low maintenance. It likes partial sun, but it does enjoy regular watering. Mine gets watered once a week. I let the soil completely dry out and then give it a deep water.
Monstera deliciosa, or Split-Leaf Philodendron, is ridiculously easy to care for. It tolerates low lighting and does not need to be watered often. Only water when the soil is completely dried out. If you over water this plant the leaves will actually sweat out the excess water. So, if you are seeing random water drops on the leaves, then it means you are over watering. In my experience, it does not do well in full / direct sunlight.
Sansevieria trifasciata, also known as Snake Plant or Mother in Law’s Tongue, is a VERY hardy plant. It likes bright, but in direct light. Let the soil dry completely before watering. Make sure this guy doesn’t sit in water!
These are only a few of my favorites that I have in my personal plant collection. When you go to pick out a plant don’t be afraid to ask for help. Some plants require more care and you want to be sure your first plant is pretty low maintenance.
The most basic piece of advice I can give is to observe your plant daily. This is the easiest way to observe any changes and make adjustments quickly. Everyday seems like a lot, but it only takes about 15 seconds to give your plant a little look over. Once you get into the habit it will become the highlight of your day. I love going out and seeing new growth on my plants (I get a little too excited about it). It is also helpful to take pictures of your plants. This will let you visually compare the growth or changes easily.
All there is left to do is get started! Let me know what plant you chose for your space below. Also, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a post!!
The FashionABLE Milso 