Pour yourself a cup of cocoa and pull up next to the fire, and start offerings your plants some winter comfort with these changes to their care.
Plants will be receiving far less light over the winter months compared to the height of the summer. Between July and February, there are five fewer hours of daylight and this results in plants that grow little, if at all over the winter. As such, plants will require water less frequently and overwatering becomes a common issue for people who don't adjust their watering schedule.
Every plant is different so be sure to diligently check soil moisture, but for something that took 7-days to dry out over the summer, it might require watering closer to every 10-days over the winter. For the more drought tolerant varieties like Cactus and Sansevieria, the difference might be even larger.
Counterintuitively, the winter might create new opportunities for where plants can live. My only south facing windows are useless over the summer because of a large oak tree that completely blocks out the light when the tree is full. However, once those leaves start to fall, those windows turn into the best place for plants to receive as much light as possible over the winter.
Temperature is often an overlooked piece to winter plant care. The thermostat might be set to a comfortable temperature but that doesn't always account for drafty windows, especially in older buildings.
The easiest way to check whether a windowsill is too cold for your plants is by placing your hand near or on the sill and getting a feel for the temperature and whether a draft is present. If this seems to be an issue, plants should either be pulled back from that window, or an insulator such as a blanket can be used to cover up the cold draft and keep your plants warm.
Humidity levels take a huge drop during the winter due to the naturally cold, dry air, but it's exacerbated by running furnaces for heat. Monitoring humidity levels over the winter will largely depend on the plant varieties you care for. Hardy varieties such as Cactus, Sansevieria, ZZ Plants or Dracaena aren't bothered much by dry air. However, Ferns, Palms, Calathea, and some Ficus and Philodendron will not be happy about the less than tropical conditions.
The best way to combat dry, winter air is by adding a humidifier to your space. They're available in all different shapes and sizes, but anything works as long as you use it consistently. Another simple trick to naturally boost ambient humidity is to group plants together - think of penguins in the arctic.
The simple piece of advice here is: Don't.
Dormant plants do not want to be disturbed. Moreover, they are not actively growing and do not want to be forced into doing so. Unnecessarily adding fertilizer to plants over the winter can create all sorts of issues from leaf loss / defoliation, nitrogen burn, mineral buildup in soil and worse. Stop fertilizing your plants by the end of the summer and wait until the spring to start up again.
In a similar sense, repotting can be a stressful undertaking for even the healthiest of plants. Repotting requires plants to reestablish a root structure for their new pot, and a dormant plant is not able to do this as effectively compared to the peak growing months of spring and summer. The rules pertaining to fertilization and the calendar year should be similarly applied to repotting.
Bright light is incredibly important with the Thai Constellation. Not only will insufficient light cause poor growth, but in rare cases, the Thai will 'revert', causing the mutation to go dormant and it will start putting out leaves which look like an ordinary Monstera.
Bright, indirect light is best. While low-light conditions will result in the aforementioned issues, excessive direct-light can cause leaf scorching, especially apparent in the variegated leaves. If you do not have the ideal light conditions in your home, using a high quality grow light like Soltech will be the best way to provide your Thai with optimal light conditions.
Given the delicate nature of Thai leaves, ambient humidity will be crucial to facilitate healthy new growth, as well as the plant's ability to maintain the integrity of existing leaves.
50% relative humidity is the absolute minimum required, however it will be happiest at levels closer to 60%. A humidifier is an absolute must to achieve these levels of humidity outside of the naturally humid summer months.
If growing in a coco/perlite medium, fertilizer is administered in every watering. If, however, you are growing in an all-purpose soil, fertilizing every other watering during the spring and summer months will be best to keep your Thai happy and healthy.
FAQ's
Light
The proper amount of light is critical for the Alocasia Dragon Tooth to thrive. They require bright, indirect sunlight for about six hours a day. They can handle lower light but you will notice that will not do much. For it to be very happy and thrive, make sure to place it in a brighter light setting.
Water
The Alocasia Dragon Tooth has moderate water requirements. That means they do not want to dry out completely but they do not like to sit in standing water. Overwatering can cause this plant to decline. Water the Alocasia Dragon Scale when about 50-75% of the soil is dried out. If you are unsure if they are ready to be watered, err on the side of caution and refrain from watering.
Humidity & Temperature
The more humidity the better for all Alocasia. Because they are native to tropical and subtropical regions, they will thrive in high humidity. Use a humidifier or pebble tray with water to increase humidity.
Warmer temperatures are ideal for Alocasia. They prefer to stay between 60-80 degrees fahrenheit.
Soil
Any well-draining soil will be good for any Alocasia. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest soil. However, Alocasia like to be slightly root bound so there is no need to rush to repot. Wait until the roots start to poke out of the bottom of the pot and then it is time to repot.
Fertilizer
Alocasia like to be fed about once every two weeks in the growing season. As for all plants, Alocasia need their beauty rest and do not need fertilizer during the fall/winter months.
FAQ
No, Alocasia are toxic if ingested. Keep away from young children and pets.
]]>Light
Kentia Palms prefer indirect sunlight. They do well in shaded areas, with a bit of light flashing through. They are tolerant of low light conditions but the plant will grow more foliage if there is a bit of filtered sunlight.
Water
Thinking tropical, the Kentia Palm likes to be kept well-hydrated but never soaking wet. In the summer and spring, water frequently. In the fall and winter, let it dry out between waterings. Yellowing leaves are saying it is being overwatered. Brown tips indicate the palm needs more water.
Humidity & Temp
For any tropical plant, they like warmer temperatures but for the Kentia Palm, they can tolerate temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it will appreciate temperatures above 60 degrees. As for humidity, the Kentia Palm will benefit from added humidity from a humidifier.
Soil
Kentia Palms are not particularly picky with their soil. Any well-draining soil will be beneficial for this palm. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Kentia Palm monthly but only during the growing season, spring and summer. Be careful about how much because they are prone to getting fertilizer burn.
FAQ's
Yes, all palms are pet friendly!
]]>Light
Parlor Palms will thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight. They are considered low-light plants, however, that does not mean no light. There will be faster growth in brighter light. Northern exposure is perfect for them.
Water
Most palms are very sensitive to overwatering but appreciate evenly moist soil. Let the first inch of the soil dry out before watering. They would rather dry out than be overwatered.
Humidity & Temperature
For most palms, high humidity is important as they come from tropical climates. To mimic the natural moisture they receive, a humidifier or pebble tray is recommended. They appreciate temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees but will not be able to withstand frost.
Soil
Any well-draining, potting medium will be good for the Parlor Palms. They have a delicate root system and slow growth so repotting should not be done unless absolutely necessary. We recommend using Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil.
Fertilizer
As for all plants, there is no need to fertilize in the winter months. Once the growing season starts, fertilize the Parlor Palm once a month.
FAQ’s
Yes, all palms are pet friendly. To keep the plant healthy, make sure no one is eating it.
Light
Bright indirect light is most ideal for the Lady Palm but they are somewhat tolerant of shaded, lower light areas. Direct sunlight is not ideal for this palm, the unfiltered sunlight will cause the leaves to burn.
Water
It is good to establish a regular watering schedule during the growing season. In the spring and summer, water when the top inch of soil dries out. In the dormant season, fall and winter, they are more drought tolerant and dry out more.
Humidity & Temp
Humidity is important for all palms. Try to keep humidity levels above 50%. Increase humidity with pebble trays or humidifers. Lady Palms thrive in typical room temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees fahrenheit. Anything below 55 degrees can damage the plant. They can also be sensitive to cold drafts and hot air blowing on the plant.
Soil
Any well-draining potting soil, with good drainage, will be good for the Lady Palm. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil.
Fertilization
Lady Palms only need fertilizing in the growing season, spring and summer. Be sure to fertilize monthly.
FAQ
Yes, all palms are pet friendly!
This could be due to lack of humidity. Trying putting a humidifer close by.
]]>The Lucky Bamboo has been a staple in homes and in the practice of Feng Shui for years. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and has been used in Feng Shui for over 5,000 years. It represents good luck, prosperity, and happiness, making it a very good gift for a loved one or yourself. The Lucky Bamboo is surprisingly not bamboo, it is within the Dracaena genus. This plant is easy to care for and will be happy growing in water or soil.
Light
Being in the Dracaena family, the Lucky Bamboo will do just fine in low to medium light. Indirect sunlight is best as too much sun will cause the stalks to yellow and the leaves to scorch.
Water
When growing Lucky Bamboo in a suitable hydroponic medium, such as rocks or LECA, replace the water once a week to keep the plant happy and thriving. If grown in soil, make sure to let the soil dry out about 50%.
Humidity & Temperature
Moderate humidity is okay for the Lucky Bamboo. Dracaena do not necessarily need so much humidity. Lucky Bamboo thrive in temperatures anywhere from 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing anywhere with a draft, such as older windows or near a heat vent.
Soil
As mentioned, the Lucky Bamboo can grow in soil or water. If growing in a hydroponic medium, make sure the water has very little to no chlorine. Leave tap water sitting out the night before to ensure no bad chemicals are in there that will harm the plant.
If the Lucky Bamboo is being grown in soil, any well-draining potting soil will work. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil with extra perlite to ensure proper drainage.
Fertilization
If growing in a hydroponic medium, Lucky Bamboo will get their nutrients from waterings. Start with a filtered or distilled water and add a nitrogen rich fertilizer at the recommended dilution. Unlike soil-based plants which do not require fertilizing over the winter months, hydroponic-grown Lucky Bamboo will require this nutrient supplementation year-round.
FAQs
No, the Lucky Bamboo is toxic. It won’t cause great harm but try to keep away from pets and young children.
When in water, most Bamboo will live survive several years under most conditions. With proper nutrition and care, they will survive in a hydroponic medium indefinitely.
]]>The Ficus Elastica is a very well known plant that can grow up to 8’ indoor. Originating from India, Nepal, Malaysia, China, and other countries, these plants come in several different varieties. They are an easier ficus to care for and add a fun, statement tree to your home.
Light
Ficus Elastica or Rubber Tree’s appreciate bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight. The Ficus Burgundy can adjust to medium light, however the Ficus Tineke should always be in brighter light.
Water
Just like any other ficus, the Elastica want to dry out about 2” of the soil. Water until it pours out of the drainage holes and then discard any water remaining in the saucer.
Humidity & Temp
Higher humidity is always good for Ficus. You can increase humidity by using a pebble tray beneath the plant or a humidifier. Do not let the temperature get below 60 degrees fahrenheit and avoid sudden shifts in temperature.
Soil
Any well draining soil is best for the Ficus Elastica. Good drainage is important to avoid root rot. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil.
Fertilization
Make sure to only water the Ficus Elastica in the spring and summer months, about twice a month. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter.
FAQ's
No, Ficus are not pet friendly.
]]>Light
Medium to bright indirect light is the place to put your Silver Sword. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause discoloration. A north or east facing window would be the best place for them.
Water
Over time, the Silver Sword has evolved to thrive in moisture. So watering when the top 2” of the soil is important. Although they are forgiving plants, they will thrive more when they don’t dry out.
Humidity & Temp
Moderate to high humidity is best for the Silver Sword. Being native to the rainforests, it is important to add humidity to mimic their natural environment. They appreciate 50% humidity. Be sure to keep them at an average room temperature. They will be okay in 60-80 degree Fahrenheit.
Soil
The Silver Sword appreciates light, airy, well-draining soil. Avoid rocky or sandy soil. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil for added nutrients and good drainage.
Fertilization
During the growing season, spring and summer, be sure to fertilize once a month. In the winter you do not need to fertilize as they are dormant.
FAQ’s
Philodendrons are not pet friendly. Keep away from young kids and pets.
]]>Light
The best thing to do for the Fireflash in regards to light is to experiment with different locations in the space. They appreciate partial shade but cannot tolerate too much direct sunlight.
Water
The Fireflash has thick roots that store water for some time in them so they are able to dry out a bit more without feeling it. However, they will be much happier in evenly moist soil. Especially in the summertime when the sun is hot and they are drying out faster.
Humidity & Temp
Being native to Africa, the Fireflash will do best in temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They thrive in a humid growing environment to mimic their natural habitat in tropical parts of Africa.
Soil
The Fireflash appreciates light, airy, well-draining soil. Avoid rocky or sandy soil. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil for added nutrients and good drainage.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Fireflash every two weeks in the spring and summer months. Do not fertilize in the winter as it will disturb their dormancy.
FAQ’s
Yes, these plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs!
]]>Light
Bright indirect light is good for the Rainbow Moss. They can do well in shaded spots with a couple hours of direct sunlight. They could also deal with full shade throughout the whole day.
Water
The Peacock Fern is not a drought tolerant plant. They require consistently moist soil to thrive. If the leaves start to yellow, that could be due to underwatering. They will dry out faster in hot summer months.
Humidity & Temp
Rainbow Moss needs high humidity to be happy. They make for very good terrarium plants or bathroom plants. They can tolerate temperatures as low at 55 degrees Fahrenheit and temperatures as high at 85. They will be happiest somewhere between 65-75.
Soil
Using the correct potting mixture is essential for the Peacock Fern. Using a potting soil that has good drainage is beneficial. Adding coco coir can help with drainage and good aeration. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest with added coco coir.
Fertilizer
Peacock Ferns are prone to getting fertilizer burn so be sure to only fertilize once a month in the spring and summer. No need to fertilize when they are dormant in fall and winter.
FAQ’s
Yes, this fern is 100% pet friendly! Be sure to not let your animals munch on it too much, it could result in an unhappy plant.
]]>Light
Although Dracaena are known to tolerate low light, they will thrive in medium light. With low light, the Elegans Cane will not give off much growth. They will do best in an east or west facing room. Avoid direct sunlight as the leaves will get burnt.
Water
Dracaena are very picky about their watering. They are sensitive to overwatering and sensitive to the chemicals in tap water. Be sure to use distilled water or let your water sit out overnight so the chemicals evaporate. They want to dry out about 75% of the way.
Humidity & Temp
The Elegans Cane does not require too much extra humidity but moderate humidity is appreciated. As long as you are comfortable with the temperature, the Elegans Cane will also be. Keep away from hot or draft drafts.
Soil
Because Dracaena are sensitive to overwatering, mixing together lava rocks or charcoal with Fox Farm Ocean Forest Potting Soil will create good drainage to avoid root rot.
Fertilizer
All Dracaena want to be fertilized once a month in the spring and summer. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter because they are dormant and it will only disturb them.
FAQ’s
As Dracaena age, it is part of their life cycle to drop older leaves. It is normal so do not worry about it too much. If the top leaves start to yellow/brown, then maybe look into it more to see if could possibly be root rot.
No, technically all Dracaena are toxic to pets and humans.
]]>Light
For the Hoya Hindu Rope to give off the best growth and flower, bright indirect will be best. A couple hours of direct sunlight is okay but make sure it is not too long as the sun will scorch the leaves. It will also be happy under a grow light.
Water
Because they are a “semi-succulent” plant, they do not need as much water from storing it in their leaves. They like the soil to dry out about 75% of the way. In the warmer months, it will need more frequent watering. Less in the winter.
Humidity & Temp
Hoya will be happy with moderate to high humidity. They prefer to be kept warm, not being in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid sudden changes in temperature.
Soil
Well-draining, light, and airy soil is the best for the Hindu Rope. We recommend adding peat moss, orchid bark, or extra perlite to Fox Farm Ocean Forest Potting Soil to use for the Hindu Rope soil.
Fertilizer
The Hoya Hindu Rope likes to be fertilized every couple months during the growing season, spring and summer.
]]>Light
The Bismarckia Palm can tolerate bright direct or indirect sunlight for about 6 hours a day. Grow lights in the winter are recommended since they are tropical plant and want as much sunlight as possible.
Water
Bismarckia Palms do not want to dry out fully. They prefer to dry out about 50% of the soil before their next watering. Be careful of overwatering in the winter time.
Humidity & Temp
Although Bismarckia Palms are resistant to dry air, if it is too dry or too hot, misting will be necessary. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees but prefer not to drop below 60. As for heat, they can tolerate temperatures up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil
For well-draining, airy soil, we recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest Potting Soil. However, Bismarckia Palms are very sensitive to repotting and do not need it for about 4 years.
Fertilization
During the growing season, spring and summer, fertilize the Bismarckia Palm every two weeks.
FAQ’s
Technically, they are non toxic but be aware of the sharp, pointed leaves that can be harmful to young children or pets.
Because of the fragile roots, this palm is sensitive to repotting. They could take up to 4 years to have to be repotted again.
]]>Light
Being a very tropical Palm, the Adonidia will thrive in full sun, also being able to tolerate bright indirect sun. They love to be outdoors if the weather is permitting.
Water
While the Christmas Palm is young, they like the soil to be kept pretty moist. Develop a consistent watering schedule for your Adonidia and they will show you how they appreciate it. As they mature they are able to tolerate short periods of drought.
Humidity & Temp
Most Palms will thrive in temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the Adonidia can tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees. For the Adonidia to thrive they should be in a climate above 70 degrees.
Soil
The Christmas Palm prefers regular potting soil, well-draining, with a little bit of sand. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest Potting Soil for added nutrients and good drainage. Mix in some sand to give better drainage.
Fertilizer
The Adonidia Palm will be very happy with being fertilized three times a year. Once in the beginning of spring and once in the beginning and end of summer.
]]>Light
Because the Norfolk Pine comes from a very sunny place, they require bright indirect to direct sunlight. They can adjust to medium light but may not look as full. They make for good outdoor plants when the weather permits.
Water
Norfolk Pines only want to dry out 25% of the soil. Be sure to feel with your hands to know if it is dry enough to water. If the tips of the plant start to get brown and crispy, it is due to underwatering.
Humidity & Temp
Higher humidity is important during the winter months due to the drier air. You can increase humidity with pebble trays or a humidifier. These pines thrive in 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to keep away from cold drafts.
Fertilizer
Feeding the Norfolk Pine once a month in the spring and summer months. No need to fertilize in the fall or winter as they are not in their growing season.
FAQ's
Norfolk Pines are mildly toxic to pets and can cause ingestion or vomitting.
]]>The Begonia Angel Wing appreciates bright indirect sunlight but can tolerate direct sunlight in the winter. They can also tolerate a shaded spot but they won’t be able to produce flowers without a lot of sunlight.
All Begonia’s appreciate consistent moisture but not soggy soil. The top inch of the soil should dry out before watering to avoid root rot. Do not let the pot sit in water.
Because the Angel Wings are native to Brazil, keeping the temperature warm is necessary. Temperatures between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit is perfect but do not let it drop below 50 degrees or the plant will mostly die. Begonia’s love humidity so create a pebble tray, use a humidity, or place it in a high humidity room such as a bathroom or kitchen to increase humidity.
The Begonia Angel Wing will do great in regular potting soil. We recommend Fox Farm Potting Soil for added nutrients and drainage! Adding peat moss could be beneficial to retain moisture.
Feed the Begonia Angel Wing with organic fertilizer biweekly in the spring and summer. There is no need to fertilize in the winter, as it is not the growing season.
FAQS
No, this plant is not pet friendly. Keep out of reach of pets and small children.
This could be from underwatering or a lack of humidity. Be sure to have high humidity around this plant and water when the top inch of the soil is dry.
]]>The Aralia Fabian can tolerate most light but will do best in bright indirect light. If this plant is dropping leaves, it is most likely in a spot that is too shaded. If the leaves are burning, it is most likely in a spot that is too bright.
The Aralia Fabian is very sensitive to tap water so setting out a bucket of water overnight to help the chemicals evaporate will be good for this plant. Water when the top two inches of the soil has dried out. Water less in the winter. If your plant is losing leaves or the leaves are curling, it could be a result of underwatering.
Because the Aralia Fabian is a tropical plant, they will appreciate moderate to high humidity. Pebble trays are beneficial. This plant thrives in temperatures between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate temperatures as low at 65.
Using the correct potting mixture is essential for the Aralian Fabian. Acidic potting soil that has good drainage is beneficial. Adding coco coir can help with drainage and good aeration. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest with added coco coir.
The Aralia Fabian will benefit from being fertilized once a month in the spring and summer. When it is dormant in the winter, there is no need to fertilize.
FAQ’s
The trunk of the Aralia Fabian has a toxic substance that can be dangerous if ingested or touches skin. Keep out of reach of young children and pets
]]>To ensure the foliage color is maintained, the Sarian needs to be in bright indirect light. Because the leaves are quite fragile, avoid direct sunlight as it will scorch the leaves.
During the growing season, the Sarian prefers to be consistently moist. They cannot tolerate soggy soil and they are also not drought tolerant. Underwatering can cause leaves to curl and go crispy.
Coming from the tropics of Asia, the Sarian prefers high humidity. Group plants together to increase humidity, add a humidifier to your space, or make pebble trays. Alocasia are sensitive to cold temperatures. They prefer to be kept between 62-72 degrees Fahrenheit. If the plant is showing slow growth, try moving to a warmer spot. If the plant is outside, move indoors when temperatures drop below 60.
Alocasia appreciates light, airy, well-draining soil. Avoid rocky or sandy soil. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest potting soil for added nutrients and good drainage.
Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season, spring and summer. Do not fertilize in the fall or winter.
FAQs
No, Alocasia are toxic when ingested by pets and humans. Keep out of reach of pets and young children.
]]>Bright indirect light is important for the Hilo Beauty to thrive. It can survive in a shadier spot but for the camouflage look to pop more, place it in a bright spot that does not get direct sunlight.
Hilo Beauties need to have their soil kept moist in the growing season. They require less water in the winter when they are dormant. Water when the top inch of the soil is dry during the growing season and when the top two inches are dry in the winter.
The Hilo Beauty grows best in high humidity. To increase humidity, use a humidifier in your home or create a tray of pebbles with water to either place the plant on top of or right next to it. The Hilo Beauty does not do well in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They are happiest at 65-75 degrees.
The Hilo Beauty will do well in any well-draining potting soil. We recommend Fox Farm Ocean Forest for added nutrients and great drainage.
A Hilo Beauty requires feeding with diluted fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. It is not necessary to fertilize in the fall or winter.
FAQ’s
No, the Hilo Beauty is toxic to pets and humans when ingested.
Sometimes, as a result of adjusting to a new environment or not enough sunlight, the Hilo Beauty can drop it’s older leaves. This can also just happen as a part of the life cycle of the plant. If it is still producing new growth, do not worry too much.
]]>The lipstick plant will appreciate bright, filtered light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Too little light will result in leaf drop.
The lipstick plant likes to be kept in consistently moist soil during their growing season. Although, watering too often and over saturating the soil can lead to root rot, leaf drop, and fungal issues. Do not let the soil try out completely. Letting it dry about two inches on the top soil is good for your Lipstick Plant.
The lipstick plant lights a warm, humid environment. Temperatures dropping below 50 degrees Fahrenheit is not ideal. Keep your Lipstick plant in temperatures between 65-75, average room temperature. Avoid placing close to drafty windows, doors, or A/C vents.
The lipstick plant will do great in regular, well aerated, potting soil. We recommend Fox Farm Potting Soil for added nutrients and drainage! Adding sand or sphagnum moss helps add the drainage that your lipstick requires to thrive.
Regularly applying fertilizer, every 2-3 weeks during the growing season will benefit your lipstick plant greatly.
FAQ's
Yes, your lipstick plant is pet friendly but for it to thrive, be sure it is not constantly being munched on by pets.
No, the lipstick plant is it own plant. This plants scientific name is Aeschynanthus Radicans whereas Hoya is it own type of plant. They look very similar when it comes to their foliage but their blooms are quite different.
]]>For abundant growth and flowering, your String of Hearts will appreciate a bright indirect light setting. Filtered light is best for SOH.
Although your SOH can be drought tolerant, they prefer to be watered a bit more frequently than many other succulents. Let them dry out completely and then give your SOH a thorough watering. Overwatering--watering when the soil is not completely dry--can result in swollen foliage, leaf drop, and the growth pattern can become messy. Do not leave the plant sitting in water. Good drainage is vital for SOH.
Too much extra humidity can be harmful to your SOH, so don’t over do it. When it comes to temperature for your SOH, they can tolerate short periods of temperatures as low as 20 degree Fahrenheit but not long durations of that. They do not like long periods of intense heat, either. They do appreciate warm temperatures and good air circulation.
Because SOH are a type of succulent, they do prefer a well draining, cacti potting mix. They do make specific soils for this sold at many plant shops, but it is also very easy to make your own. To make your cacti/succulent mix simply mix equal parts of potting soil, perlite, sand, and pumice together. Those four components will make for a very well draining potting mix that will not be too rich, which SOH does not like.
Your SOH does not like soil that is too rich, meaning they would prefer a fertilizer that is not too high in nitrogen. SOH prefers a fertilizer specifically made for succulents.
FAQ’s
Yes, the SOH is 100% safe for pets and humans. Although the plant may not be happy when being munched on occasionally, so it is recommended to still keep out of reach of pets, especially cats who find the stringy vines irresistible.
]]>The Philodendron Pink Princess grows naturally in the wild under forest trees meaning it never gets direct sunlight. They will thrive in 3-4 hours of indirect sunlight a day. Putting your PPP in a North or East facing window will help it thrive. If they are getting too much light the leaves will burn and produce olive green spots. Too little light will produce only dark brown leaves.
The PPP will appreciate being watered when the top 50% of the soil dries out, just like any other Philodendron. Using a moisture meter or the finger test will help determine whether or not it needs to be watered. Remember, it will need less water in the winter months. If it is being overwatered, the Pink Princess will have yellowing and/or drooping leaves, lack of new growth, and little to no variegation in the leaves.
Being native to the South American forests, the Philodendron Pink Princess can tolerate temperatures between 50-95 degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer/will thrive in temperatures closer to 70-80 degrees with humidity levels at least 50%. A humidifier can increase humidity in a home.
The Philodendron Pink Princess will thrive in well-draining potting soil. We recommend Fox Farm Potting Soil for added drainage and nutrients. Good drainage is important for the PPP to avoid root rot.
Another good soil mixture can be made to use. Mixing together 40% peat moss or coco choir, 30% orchid bark, 20% perlite, and 10% worm castings can be a very beneficial soil mixture. This is both good for allowing good aeration and moisture retention.
Fertilizing during the growing season, spring and summer, is very important for all plants to thrive. The Philodendron Pink Princess will thrive when being fertilized at half strength every 2 weeks or full strength once a month.
FAQ's
No, all philodendrons contain a sap that can be toxic to pets and humans if consumed in large quantities.
]]>
The Gloriosum will thrive best in bright indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight will result in yellowing leaves and could damage your plant so be aware of how much direct light it receives throughout each day. Long leggy leaves and slow growth may indicate it is not receiving enough light.
The Gloriosum appreciates moist soil but not soggy. Drooping leaves can indicate over watering. When you are thinking about watering this plant, be sure the top 2 inches of the soil is dried out before you water.
This plant requires higher humidity. In your home, using a humidifier or a pebble tray to increase humidity. When using a pebble tray, you can fill a tray with rocks or pebbles, fill the water just below the rock line and either place the plant on top of or beside the tray. This will increase humidity. A humidifier is recommended to keep the environment consistently humid.
The Philodendron Gloriosum will do great in regular potting soil. We recommend Fox Farm Potting Soil for added nutrients and drainage! Adding peat moss or pertile will also help add aeration and retain the moisture enough for this plant.
Fertilizing your plants is important for added nutrients and growth. During the growing season, spring and summer, the Gloriosum needs to be fertilized once a month. Slow growth and small leaves may indicate a lack of fertilization.
FAQ's
The Phildendron Micans will appreciate a bright, indirect lighting space. Although Philodendrons can tolerate low light, they won’t necessarily thrive. So if you are looking for your Micans to grow nice and long, they will appreciate a bright spot. Avoid direct sunlight as that will burn the leaves. Yellowing older leaves in common but if several leaves are yellowing at a time, that could be the result of too much sunlight.
Let the top couple inches of the soil dry out before watering the spring and summer. In the winter time they are not actively growing so they would prefer to dry out before their next water.
Keeping a humidifier close by or using a pebble tray to increase humidity will be helpful as they grow naturally in a very humid forest.
The Philodendron Micans will do great in regular potting soil. We recommend Fox Farm Potting Soil for added nutrients and drainage! Adding peat moss could be beneficial to retain moisture.
During the growing season, summer and spring, fertilize your Micans monthly. Paler leaves can be a result of too little fertilization.
FAQ's
Philodendrons are toxic to pets and humans. Keep out of reach of animals and young children.
The Anthurium will thrive in bright, indirect light. The more light exposure it is getting, the more blooms you will see.
Let the soil of your Anthurium dry out about 50-75% of the way. Allow the water to drain out of the drainage holes and discard any water left in the tray. Do not let your plant sit in water.
The Anthurium loves a humid environment. To increase humidity mist daily, run a humidifier, or create a pebble tray. Don't allow temperatures to drop below 65 or go above 85. Avoid placing near an air vent.
Almost any well-draining potting mix will be sufficient for your Anthurium. Our go-to recommendation for a high-quality soil that’s fast draining is Fox Farms Ocean Forest.
The Anthurium will appreciate being fed once a month in the spring and summer months.
FAQ's
No, this plant is technically toxic to animals and humans. Keep out of reach of young children and pets.
The String of Pearls will love to grow indoor in a bright indirect spot. Outdoor, they love to be placed in a shaded area with a little bit of morning sun. Direct sun is too harsh for the pearls or bananas so avoid too much of that. If grown under a fluorescent light, they would need 12-16 hours of light.
The String of Pearls or Bananas are very sensitive to overwatering so make sure to let the soil dry out before giving it a drink. String of Bananas tend to dry out slower than String of Pearls.
The String of Pearls do not need any extra humidity, they store it in their pearls or bananas. As for temperature, they prefer to be in an environment that is between 70 and 80 degrees F.
For the String of Pearls or Bananas, they prefer to be in a succulent soil mix that is well-draining. Add regular potting soil, perlite, and sand into a pot and mix it up. Use that for to String of Pearls or Bananas.
String of Pearls do not require too much fertilizer. In fact, over fertilizing can harm the plant. Fertilize only once a month during the spring and summer. No need to fertilize in the fall and winter.
FAQ's
This succulent is not pet friendly so if you have pets or small children around, make sure there are no loose pearls or bananas.
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Ficus love to be in bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as that will scorch the leaves and make the plant wilts.
The Ficus likes to dry out about 50% of the way before getting another watering. They are also prone to root rot so make sure to discard the water that drains out of the pot.
The Ficus will appreciate higher humidity levels in the winter months. Average household humidity in the summer (in Chicago) will be okay for it but giving it a boost from a humidifier or pebble tray wouldn’t hurt. They prefer temperatures from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Almost any well-draining potting mix will be sufficient for a Ficus. Our go-to recommendation for a high-quality soil that’s fast draining is Fox Farms Ocean Forest.
Fertilizing regularly in the spring and summer is important to encourage growth during its growing season. No need to fertilize in fall and winter.
FAQ's
The Pilea will prefer a bright indirect spot in your home. Avoid direct sunlight as it will cause leaves to drop. For a Pilea to grow evenly, rotate every 2-3 weeks.
The Pilea likes for the soil to dry out about 75% of the way. Overwatering will cause yellowing leaves and leaf loss.
The Pilea does well in a drier environment so adding humidity isn’t necessary. Their ideal temperatures range from 65 to 75 degrees. Keep them away from heating vents in the winter to avoid an unhappy plant.
Almost any well-draining potting mix will be sufficient for your Pilea. Our go-to recommendation for a high-quality soil that’s fast draining is Fox Farms Ocean Forest.
The Pilea will benefit from fertilizer once a month during the growing season, spring and summer. No need to fertilize in the fall or winter.
FAQ's