Indoor plants are a great addition to any home or office. They add aesthetic value and provide a sense of calm and happiness. However, many misconceptions about caring for indoor plants have discouraged people from keeping them.
Let’s look at some of these misconceptions about caring for indoor plants and debunk them.
Overwatering Your Plants Is Better Than Underwatering Them
Many people think that watering their plants frequently will keep them healthy. However, overwatering can harm your plants. When the soil is too wet, the roots can suffocate and develop fungal diseases. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the plant to dry out and wither. It’s essential to provide your plant with the right amount of water, which depends on its species and environment.
All Indoor Plants Need Direct Sunlight
Most indoor plants are low-light tolerant and can thrive in indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can be too harsh for some plants, causing their leaves to burn or turn yellow. Before choosing a spot for your indoor plant, check its light requirements and observe the natural light in your space. You can also invest in grow lights if your space lacks natural light.
Fertilizing Your Plant Every Week Will Make It Grow Faster
Fertilizing your plant is essential to give it the necessary nutrients to grow. However, overdoing it can harm your plant. Too much fertilizer can cause salt buildup in the soil, damaging the roots. Also, not all plants need the same amount of fertilizer. Just using some indoor plant fertilizer and following the instructions on the label is enough to help your plant grow.
Repotting Your Plant Every Year Is Necessary
Repotting your plant too often can lead to root shock, which damages the roots. You should repot most indoor plants every one to two years, depending on their growth rate and root growth. Before repotting your plant, choose the right-sized pot and use the appropriate soil mix.
You Don’t Need To Prune Indoor Plants
Pruning your indoor plant is essential to maintain its shape and promote new growth. Trimming dead or damaged leaves and branches can also prevent the spread of diseases. Different plants require different pruning levels, so research your plant’s pruning requirements before trimming it.
Caring for indoor plants can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never kept one before. But by debunking these five common misconceptions, we hope we’ve made it less daunting. Remember to provide your plant with the right amount of water, light, and fertilizer, and prune and repot it when necessary. Keeping your indoor plant healthy and happy is a rewarding experience that will help you connect with nature and create a more relaxing environment.
Image credit: file #625569410 Young woman taking care of green house plants By Dina