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Issue #504 - February 5, 2015 | |||
![]() Houseplant Care Guide ![]() Light A moderate amount of bright, filtered light is best for most plants. Low light levels can lead to a decline in health as insufficient food is produced to replace older leaves as they die, leaving pale stunted plants. On the other hand, too much light can lead to scorching of the foliage with many tropical houseplants. Temperature Although many houseplants require warm rooms, they generally prefer an even temperature. In winter this becomes a problem when central heating creates large fluctuations between day and night temperatures. Avoid placing plants near radiators, in draughts, or on windowsills at night. Water Indoor plants more commonly die of over-watering than from drought. Overwatering eventually leads to root death and collapse of the plant. Try to keep your plants moist and avoid letting the compost dry out completely. Water from below allowing the plant to take up water as it is needed, but allow excess to drain away. Feeding Liquid feeds are generally the best for houseplants. Choose one high in potash for flowering pot plants, a more balanced one for foliage plants, and use a special fertilizer for certain groups of plants such as orchids. Repotting After a year or two, plants may need repotting into a larger container to maintain healthy growth. Choose a clean pot one or two sizes larger than the old one, then water the plant before potting and allow it to drain. Repot using a similar type of compost to the old one. |
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Estabrook's - (207) 846-4398 - www.estabrooksonline.com |