Plant Care & Learning

Watering frequency depends on the plant type, pot size, and environment. Most houseplants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger 1-2 inches into the soil. If it's dry, it's time to water. Generally, most plants need watering once a week, but this can vary.

Most houseplants prefer bright, indirect light. This means placing them near a window but not in direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves. East or north-facing windows are ideal. Some plants like succulents and cacti can handle direct sunlight, while others like snake plants can tolerate low light.

Signs that your plant needs repotting include: roots growing out of drainage holes, roots visible on the soil surface, the plant drying out very quickly, or the plant becoming top-heavy. Spring is the best time to repot most plants.

Yellow leaves can indicate several issues: overwatering (most common), underwatering, too much or too little light, nutrient deficiency, or natural aging. Check the soil moisture first, then assess light conditions. Remove yellow leaves to help the plant focus energy on healthy growth.

Fertilize during the growing season (spring and summer) when plants are actively growing. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during growing season, and stop fertilizing in fall and winter when plants are dormant.

Great plants for beginners include: Snake Plant (Sansevieria), Pothos, ZZ Plant, Spider Plant, Peace Lily, and Philodendron. These plants are forgiving, tolerate various light conditions, and don't require frequent watering.

You can increase humidity by: using a humidifier, placing plants on a pebble tray with water, grouping plants together, misting leaves regularly (for plants that like it), or placing plants in naturally humid areas like bathrooms or kitchens.

Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. For natural treatment: isolate the affected plant, wipe leaves with soapy water, use neem oil spray, or introduce beneficial insects. Check plants regularly to catch pests early.