Top tips on caring for houseplants

Plants enhance our homes in many ways; bringing life and colour as well as purifying the air. Here are top tips on how to help your houseplants thrive!

1. Stick your finger in the soil!

Overwatering is the number one cause of

houseplant death. If the top inch feels dry

give it a drink. With succulents and cactus

let the soil completely dry out before watering.

2. Collect rainwater, if you can

The salts and chemicals in tap water can build up in the soil over time and prevent the roots from absorbing water. So collect rainwater if you can or let tap water sit overnight.

Whatever water you use let it reach room temperature so you don't shock the roots.

3. Water less in winter

Most houseplants go into a dormant phase during the Winter so need much less water. With most plants allow the half of the soil to dry out before watering.

Cacti and succulents should be kept dry over the winter months, unless you notice them starting to shrivel, in which case add just enough water to lightly moisten the soil surface.

4. Get the light right

Many varieties of tropical houseplant enjoy a bright position that is out of direct sun. This mimicks their natural habitat under the rainforest canopy. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced vibrancy.

Check which direction your windows face. Many houseplants, especially those that flower, thrive near an east window as they enjoy a bit of morning sun which isn't too strong for most of the year. Alternatively, set back from a south or west window or on a north windowsill works well.

Strong afternoon sun can scorch delicate leaves, however cacti and succulents love a south or west facing windowsill.

5. How to raise humidity

Most tropical plants, ferns and orchids prefer high humidity. Steamy bathrooms and kitchens are ideal locations. You can also put a tray of moistened pebbles under the pot, group plants together or invest in a humidifier. Misting only raises humidity temporarily so you would need to do it a lot to make a difference.

6. Dust the leaves

From time to time it's a good idea to wipe your plants leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and help your plants photosynthesize so they can continue to remove toxins from the air.

7. Give your plants a boost

It's a good idea to fertilise your houseplants during their active growing season, spring and

summer, cut back in autumn and stop altogether in winter.

Most tropical plants only need feeding about every 2 weeks depending on the plant. Plants such as Calatheas and Monsteras only need doing monthly.

Check your plants requirements and use a balanced houseplant fertiliser, and dilute it to half the recommended strength. Any feed that's high in nitrogen encourages strong growth and will keep your plants looking lush.

Other key ingredients include: Phosphorous - to help your plant produce stronger roots and healthy flowers.

Potassium - to help your plant fight off disease.

Happy Growing!