It’s better to underwater than overwater
Low light plants don’t mean no light
If you get down to the plant’s level and can’t see the sky, you might need grow lights. Or move the plant a few times a week to catch some sun.
Don’t rely on anyone else to care for your plants while you’re away. They won’t do it like you would.
Never buy indoor potting soil and just assume it’s fine. That’s a big mistake for beginners (I made it too). Learn about different soil amendments and check what your plant needs for repotting.
Quince said:
Never buy indoor potting soil and just assume it’s fine. That’s a big mistake for beginners (I made it too). Learn about different soil amendments and check what your plant needs for repotting.
I have low light and my plants take weeks to dry out. What amendments should I use? I’m worried about perlite since it’s non-renewable…
@Lyle
I use orchid bark for aeration and it holds moisture well. I mix that with indoor cactus/succulent soil which should already be airy. Just remember the bark breaks down over time, so you might need to repot more often, maybe once a year instead of every two years.
Quince said:
Never buy indoor potting soil and just assume it’s fine. That’s a big mistake for beginners (I made it too). Learn about different soil amendments and check what your plant needs for repotting.
Omg this applies to succulents too.
Drainage is key.
Shawn said:
Drainage is key.
Exactly!
Shawn said:
Drainage is key.
Totally agree with that!
Check the soil before you water. You can use old wooden chopsticks if you have some.
Some plants do better in just water. Adapt to that.
Pepper plants love water and warmth, and you can grow them into trees if you have patience.
@Jory
Which plants grow better in water? How often do you change the water? Do you add fertilizer?
Lyle said:
@Jory
Which plants grow better in water? How often do you change the water? Do you add fertilizer?
I have Coleus, Leander, Pothos, and Bamboo. I add roots fertilizer now and then, especially in spring. I don’t change the water much; I just add more and make sure they always have it. They have been thriving like this for two years.
@Jory
Could you share more about the pepper?
I start my pepper seeds in February and get them ready for my balcony by May. I water them daily in summer and every other day inside. I keep some in the house near the window. After a year, they start looking like trees. I trim the big leaves and first flowers to help them grow better. I have about a 50-50 survival rate inside since I grow a variety. You can use seeds from regular peppers at home to grow in a pot or garden. However, they need lots of water. Spicy peppers require even more care since they can be a little temperamental. Most peppers won’t revive well if you forget to water them regularly.
This year, I will experiment with growing some only in water. It’s a learning experience for me.
My grandma says peppers are so sensitive that if you look at them funny, they might just die.
@Jory
Thanks! I’ll try that.
@Jory
I use bamboo skewers to check moisture; I prefer them over moisture meters.
Morgan said:
@Jory
I use bamboo skewers to check moisture; I prefer them over moisture meters.
That’s a smart idea!
It’s better to water thoroughly and let it dry a bit rather than giving small amounts of water often.
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If your plant seems to struggle, please stop messing with it. You’re stressing it out. Snap a picture and take it to a local nursery for advice.
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If you find yourself thinking, maybe it needs a bigger pot, put a rubber band on your wrist and snap it. More often than not, your plant probably needs more light, not more space.
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There are so many factors in plant care. Generic labels like medium light or water once a week are not specific. Consult a professional and learn about your particular plant.
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Plants did not adapt to thrive under office lights. If you can’t provide enough natural light, consider not getting a live plant.
@Luca
To add to #4-get grow lights! This has really changed things for me. It elevates the whole plant experience, and now my plants are not just happy but look beautiful too, allowing me to appreciate them more.
@Luca
I’d modify #3 to say ‘talk with a pro in your area.’ Growing conditions differ so much, it’s helpful to find a local expert who can guide you on what works in your climate.