If you're looking for a fun weekend project, and if you love gardening, now is the perfect time to create your own indoor garden with houseplants. Here is a closer look on how to care for your indoor garden.
Watering
Indoor plants without access to natural rainwater need to be watered regularly. Every plant is different and has different needs. Some plants need and love constant watering, while other plants prefer to have their soil dry out a bit. You should make a weekly plant watering schedule for each week. This can help keep your watering on track and ensure that each of your plants get exactly the right amount they need. The most important thing is to learn about your plants' requirements and test the soil for moisture before watering again.
Temperature, Humidity and Ventilation
Indoor plants also have different requirements for temperature and humidity. Having the correct temperature will allow for your plants to grow within a short amount of time. Warm temperatures could cause Pythium which is also known as “root rot”, and grow unwanted bacteria and pathogens. Invest in getting a humidifier to help with the temperature and moisture your plants are getting each day.
Sunlight
Without access to the direct sunlight their outdoor counterparts enjoy, plants need additional care indoors. Of course, rooms brightly lit with natural light will help plants thrive, but some plants might be just fine in a shadier part of the home. Figure out how much light your specific plants need so you can take advantage of all levels of light you have available in your space. You can swap out your light bulbs, and do some research to find out what bulbs work best with your plants.
Potting
The pot and soil you use will depend mainly on the plants you want for your indoor garden. You still need to make sure plants are in a pot of the correct size for their root systems. Some plants use a high quality of potting soil. Be careful not to use soil specified for in-ground garden beds. Liquid fertilizer may be a good idea to look into, you can use it with water and nutrient solution mix at least once a month. Do some research on using the correct soil.
Feeding
If you're only using soil in your pots, your plants may be lacking nutrients. Adding plant food on a regular basis will help your indoor garden stay healthy and green. There are several options on the market, so check with your nursery or look online in finding the right blend of nutrients for your plants.
To be a successful indoor gardener, you need to understand how the interior environment affects plant growth and how it differs from growing plants outdoors. Be creative and pay attention to the lighting, amount of water and correct soil for your plants. Most importantly, get a humidifier!
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