Houseplants are wonderful aren’t they? We certainly think so!

Did you know that indoor plants can remove air pollution and allergens?

Through photosynthesis, plants convert the carbon dioxide we exhale into fresh oxygen, and they can also remove toxins from the air we breathe. The bigger and leafier the plant, the better!

Houseplants have also been known to;

• Improve your mood
• Reduce stress levels
• Increase work productivity
• Improve your attention span
• They can also even reduce your blood pressure

Now we know how wonderful they are, here are some of our top tips on how to keep them alive!

Most houseplants require bright, unfiltered light. It’s important to avoid the sun through glass as this can scorch the leaves of tropical plants.

The majority of houseplants thrive in warm rooms and in even temperatures all year round so try avoid placing your plants near open fires, radiators, in draughts or on windowsills on frosty nights.

Watering Tips:

• Most houseplants require watering every 1 – 3 weeks
• Water your houseplants when they need it, rather than on a schedule
• Avoid over watering as this can lead to root death.
• Let the surface of the compost dry a little before adding more room temperature water.
• Do not let the plant sit in water.

Re-potting:

After a year or two, plants may need re-potting in order to promote healthy growth. Make sure you use a clean pot that is one or two sizes larger than the original one and the existing compost must be moist before you re-pot. The best time to re-pot your plants is during the Spring.

Holiday care:

Summer:

If you are away for a short period of time during the summer months, make sure you water your plants thoroughly before you go. Think about moving them to a cooler room and away from bright windows to help prevent them drying out.

Winter:

In the winter, houseplants can be left for a week or two with no attention, providing that the room temperate doesn’t fall to below the minimum they can tolerate. Think about moving your plants away from any windows and make sure you water them before you go, ensuring that the compost is moist but not waterlogged.

Cacti & Succulents:

Cacti and succulents aren’t your average houseplant. They have the ability to store water in their leaves or stems, allowing them to survive in arid habitats. It’s a common myth that Cacti & Succulents do not require water when in actual fact they most certainly do!

• Water your Cacti & Succulents 2 – 4 times a month during active growing periods (Spring & Summer)
• They prefer rain water but tepid tap water is also perfectly acceptable
• Feed your Cacti & Succulents during Spring & Summer
• Do not water them during dormancy (over Winter) Keep them dry, especially in lower temperatures
• Choose a warm, sunny spot for your Cacti & Succulents – preferably in direct sunlight to allow photosynthesis

If you take care of your plants, they will take care of you!

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