Keeping your plants alive can be quite a challenge. Do you love plants, but at the same time you don't know how best to care for them? Then you are certainly not alone. Many people don't even start bringing plants into their home, because these green friends often don't last long for them. And that's a shame, because there are several ways to enjoy your plants for longer! If you want to keep your plants alive for as long as possible, we are happy to give you a number of tips.
Go for the right plants
Some plants require a lot of maintenance. If you are not (yet) good at maintaining plants, it is wise not to immediately choose these varieties.
Fortunately, there are also plants that you hardly have to worry about and that can withstand a beating. Which plants are those? Consider, for example, succulents, Aloe Vera, women's tongues or the Crassula Ovata. Maintenance-free plants often do not need much water and/or do not need to be pruned, for example.
Give your plants enough water
If you want to keep your plants alive, don't give them too little water, but certainly not too much either. Did you know that too much water is the number one killer of houseplants? Of course you want to prevent that! The right amount of water depends on several factors. For example, which plant is it, how big is the plant and is it exposed to a lot of daylight?
A trick to find out how much water your plant needs is to see if water comes out of the bottom of the pot during watering. If this is the case, you have given too much water. Are you still unsure whether you are doing it right? Then inquire at a garden center or search the internet for information about the plant in question.
"There are different ways to enjoy your plants longer!"
Choose a suitable location
Some plants need a lot of light, while other species are best placed in a shady spot. Before you buy plants, decide where you would like to place them in your home and take into account the specific preferences of the plants you have in mind.
Do you notice that the leaves of your plant are discolouring? One of the causes of this may be a shortage or too much sunlight. Move the plant to a lighter or darker spot and see if that makes a difference.
Prevent stress on your plant
Did you know that not only people and animals, but also plants can experience stress? This may be the case, for example, if you are someone who regularly changes your interior. If you want to prevent stress on your plants, it is a good idea to leave them in the same place as much as possible. If you move your houseplants regularly, this can cause stress. You can of course turn your plants towards the light every now and then or repot them if necessary.
Give a piece of candy every now and then
Every now and then you can treat your plants to something tasty. Some extra nutrition gives your plants a good boost, so they can get going again. Feeding is not necessary in winter, but during the growing period (usually from March to October) they can sometimes use a treat.
How much nutrition does your plant need and how often is it best to do this? This also depends on certain factors, such as the type and size of your houseplant, the location, but also whether the plant suffers from certain diseases or pests.
Maintain good humidity
One of the most important things you can do for your plants is to ensure constant humidity in your home. An air humidity between 40% and 60% is best, not only for your plants, but also for your own health.
Is the air quite dry in your house? Then consider a humidifier. Putting several plants together in a group also helps, as this way they create their own mini climate!
Keep your plants alive? Provide an optimal living environment
The temperature in your home influences the growth potential of your houseplants. During the day, a temperature between 15 and 25 degrees is recommended. In any case, ensure a constant temperature as much as possible, as many plants cannot withstand large temperature fluctuations! If you want to keep your plants alive, it is important to create an optimal living environment for them.