Anyone willing to share some beginner plant mom basics? Recommendations for knowing when to water, fertilize, how to make sure lighting is right (I only have east and west facing windows), grow lights, and really anything else! (Picture of my philodendron (Apollo) so this doesn’t get lost)
Underwatering is always better than overwatering! Also, overwatering = water too often, not too much water at once. You can drench most plants when you water, but don’t drench them too frequently. Attempt to simulate the natural environment— chunky soil, airflow, bright speckled light, climbing stakes. Always use pots with drainage holes. Fertilizer ~1x/month, or twice/month in summer. Spray your plants for pests frequently. Avoid fungus gnats by bottom watering, using clean soil, systemic granules, & regular pest control. It’s winter, so don’t expect much growth. Moss poles aren’t worth the hype. Humidity matters.
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I second this!
1 likeThe plant will theoretically tell you if it’s not happy! It’ll also tell you if it is! I’d say to water according to planta. Lighting is hard. I have east and west windows too so I tend to not have a ton of light to get to the plants. It’s all trial and error - which can be a good thing and a bad thing!
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I follow 2 simple rules for most my plants # 1 give the plant as much light as possible. #2 water when soil is dry ( I poke my finger down into soil several inches and if it feels dry then I water, if it feels slightly moist then I wait)
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I agree with brittrb. You can use Plantas watering schedule like a reminder but ALWAYS check the soil first. You can use your finger or something like a wooden bamboo type stick. As for lighting, it really depends on the plants. I usually look up their preferred lighting. I also try to group plants together that need/like same lighting. Many houseplants are tropical so I recommend a humidifier. I also have some humidity loving plants in my bathroom. I don’t really fertilize in winter as they don’t grow much but other people do…just make sure you research your specific plants:). Hope this helps🪴
2 likesLooks great
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