Plant Care Tips from a Reformed Plant Killer
Oh man, guys, I’m such a proud momma! I got a Fiddle Leaf Fig on sale for a mere $8 from Home Depot several months ago (perhaps at that price because it wasn’t doing so hot?).
After losing all but FOUR leaves and remaining seemingly dead or dormant for months, it’s finally busting out with new growth! Some people have asked for my secret (which is too funny cause I used to be an incurable plant killer!) – and while I don’t know much, here are some general PLANT TIPS that have worked for me:
LIGHT: Research the light recommendations for your plant and follow them as well as you can! Plants can be picky about this! And research what those preferences mean (define “bright”).
DRAINAGE: Almost no plants can tolerate sitting in water (it will rot the roots), so make sure whatever planter you use has 1). Adequate drainage holes at the bottom and 2). Space for the water to pool and evaporate (like a wide tray or bowl – I put my potted plants in a bowl bigger than the black plastic planter so the water can escape and dry up).
REPOTTING: If a plant has roots that are coming out of the top or bottom of the soil/planter, it’s ready for new digs. Find a planter that’s a few inches bigger/deeper (don’t go too much bigger – that can also backfire), get a bag of indoor plant soil, and repot it as carefully as you can. I think that’s what really made a difference for my plants that were on death’s door!).
WATERING: Most house plants like to be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Periodically go around checking on the soil situation of your plants, then give them a good soak in the sink (enough that water comes out of the holes of the bottom). Each plant is different, so research it, but this could be once a week or less for most plants. Many plant deaths are due to OVERwatering, so don’t worry about underdoing it as much – a droopy plant can bounce back within hours of a good bath! And definitely feel free to almost neglect your desert plants (succulents, snake plants). I water those lightly once a month.
FOOD: Find a liquid plant food that’s good for house plants and feed the little guys every few months.
Hope that helps! And happy planting!
