Choosing House Plants
After a brief lull in popularity the house plant has been able to make a massive comeback. With a myriad of studies showing their ability to improve everything from the quality of air to mental health, they're becoming status symbols and intrinsic parts of interior design.
These tough greenery options are easy to maintain. You just need a bit of knowledge and a few key elements to get the desired appearance.
Space
Many houseplants are native to a variety of types of environments, including rainforest understory plants to desert-dwelling cacti. Think about the kind of environment in which houseplants would thrive to ensure their long-term success. This includes the specific conditions, such as temperatures, light, and humidity as well as the space you have in your office or in your home.
Ferns, like plants, that grow in humid environments and are exposed to direct sunlight can be planted in east-facing windows. best houseplants will smolder their leaves if placed in windows that face either west or south.
When arranging your plants, be sure to leave enough space for air circulation between each one. This will help to control the temperature and prevent the risk of diseases that are caused by a lack of air circulation. Also, make sure your pots are equipped with drainage holes to limit the chance of over-watering and stagnant water. Porous pots like terra cotta offer better aeration than non-porous plastics or glaze-glazed pots, which may hold more moisture and limit airflow.
Although most houseplants are inexpensive, the initial cost and regular maintenance can add up. It's also important to note that plants can be a time-consuming hobby, especially for those who have a tendency to forget to water or overwater.
Light
Plants can bring beautiful color and beauty to your home however, if you don't provide them enough light, they could begin to look dull or drop leaves. This could be because the plant needs more bright light, or it could be an indication that there's an issue in the environment. You can utilize a light meter and measure the kind of light and the intensity to determine the problem.
Different species require different levels of light to flourish and grow. Most plants require bright indirect light. However, this will differ based on the species and how much sun they get outdoors. It's important to research the requirements of your specific plants so that you can provide them with the best possible conditions.
If you have a limited area of windows or windows that are blocked, think about choosing plants that thrive in less light conditions. Aroids (bromeliads, bromeliads and ferns), some ivy types along with most palms, and some begonias are incredibly adaptable and can live in a dim space. Houseplants that flower, such as African Camellias, Violets, Gardenias, and Geraniums (Pelargonium species), are more difficult to maintain, but can still thrive in less than ideal conditions.
Try best houseplants that require bright indirect light, like dracaenas or the ZZ plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) in the front of a window that faces south all day. Or position them a few inches away from a window that faces west to maximize brightness. The more intense light could be helpful if you employ an artificial lighting system that is full spectrum.
These lights are designed to replicate the natural sunlight and offer more intense light. They also permit you to grow a larger amount of plants in the same area. This is due to the wavelengths of red and blue which are essential for plants to grow and produce flowers. A good example of this is the Aceple Desk Plant Light, which is affordable and produces outstanding results for African violets, lemon cucumbers and weeping figs.
A high-intensity discharging (HID) lamp or metal halide is another type of light. These lamps generate a lot of heat and are not recommended to be used in the majority of homes. Verify that your fixture has an automatic shut-off and is properly vented.
Temperature
Plants thrive at a very specific temperature range. Temperature is a factor that affects respiration, photosynthesis and transpiration - all vital for the growth and functioning of plants. It's important to know your plants' needs for temperature and maintain their ideal temperature throughout the day.
Houseplants that are tropical, such as palms, philodendrons and peace lilys for example, thrive best in warmer temperatures during the daytime and cooler temperatures at night. The cooler temperatures help the plants conserve water and energy through photosynthesis. The temperature can also affect the speed at which a plant grows. High temperatures speed up the rate of growth, while lower temperatures slow it down.
Be aware of the relative humidity in your home. If the air is dry, it could cause plant diseases. This is why it's recommended to place your plants near windows and in areas with natural ventilation. However, if your house is cold, you might need to keep your plants away from open fires and doors. The drafts can cause the plant's stomata to close, which reduces its capacity to absorb nutrients and water.
low maintenance house plants is the rapid temperature fluctuations and long periods of cold. The majority of plants can tolerate up to 10 degrees F in temperature variations between night and day, but any more can prove detrimental.
If your plants are subjected to extreme temperatures, it's likely that they'll die, lose their leaves, or develop mold. The best way to avoid this from happening is to utilize smart devices for controlling climate to control and monitor your home's temperature. Smart thermostats and AC controllers for ductless mini-splits and portable AC can help you maintain your green friend's optimal temperature that will save you time and money. Plus, they're eco-friendly! For more information, visit SmartHome.com.
Water
Many houseplants grow as epiphytes on tree trunks or branches in rainforests and deserts. They also stick to rocks and other surfaces. These plants can tolerate dry air, inconsistent watering, and less sunlight than those that have adapted to more temperate climates. Some of these plants are favorites for indoor gardens, including orchids, bromeliads and ferns.
Water is among the most important ingredients for the growth and health of plants. The quality of water, the frequency the frequency at which it changes and even the temperature are all aspects that can affect a plant's growth.
The most suitable water for houseplants is rainwater or meltwater, which is abundant in oxygen and free of fluoride or chlorine. If you don't have rainwater or meltwater available tap water is typically acceptable if it hasn't been heated or treated with calcium chloride. Chlorine and chloramines can damage roots and kill the beneficial microorganisms and bacteria in the soil. It's best to let tap water rest for 24 hours before using it.
Whether you're using tap water, rainwater or bottled water, it's always recommended to swap the old water with fresh, clean water at least once per week. If you use the same water over longer periods of time could result in salt accumulation, which is toxic to certain plants.
When watering a houseplant it is a great idea to use a watering can that allows you to regulate the amount of water you use to ensure that you don't over- or underwater the plant. It's a good idea to water your plants with indirect light rather than direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause water to heat and can encourage algae and other organisms that may be harmful to the plant.
Watering a houseplant depends on the season, and also the needs of the plant. It is best to keep track of the growth of a certain plant and water it appropriately. Try lifting best houseplants if you're not sure if your houseplant is getting enough water. A wilted or sagging plant is likely to be thirsty, and a well-watered plant will have a sturdy but moist texture to the soil.