Polk County Master Gardeners
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House Plant Care
Spring is a busy time of year for gardeners. With so many outdoor projects
demanding time it would be easy to forget indoor plants. They too need proper
care throughout the year. Healthy house plants enhance a home immeasurably. They
add color, texture and interest to any interior.
Consequently, it's important to maintain them in excellent condition. This
is not an easy task in most homes. Nonetheless, you may succeed by understanding
some basics about plant care.
First, don't over water! This damages more house plants than diseases. Too
much water cuts off the supply of oxygen to the roots, causing root rot. Of
course, letting plants dry out is also harmful but drooping leaves are an
early warning plants need attention. Experts recommend less frequent but
thorough watering to leach salt buildups into the catch basin. Always pour off
any excess water. To minimize the guessing about watering, have you ever
considered using a moisture tester? This helpful device lets you know when to
water each plant by providing moisture readings at the root level. It instantly
indicates on a scale of dry to wet, whether or not to water. In addition, most
testers come with watering instructions for a variety of plants.
Paul J. Mitchell, professor and extension horticulturist at Oklahoma State
University is an expert on house plants. He points out that success with them is
governed, not only by water, but also by light, temperature, nutrients,
humidity, and proper soil. Few plants do well in dark corners. Consequently,
plants may need to be moved around to find optimum locations. If light is
needed, move plants closer to windows or artificial light sources. Remember to
avoid drafts of any kind since most plants prefer even temperatures of 60 to 70
degrees.
Although difficult to achieve in the average home, 50-60 percent humidity is
also beneficial. A more humid environment for special plants can be achieved by
setting their pots on oversized trays filled with damp gravel.
When potting, it is not necessary to add gravel inside the bottom of pots.
Simply put a broken piece of a flower pot over the bottom hole to retain the
soil and still allow good drainage. Over time, roots coming out the bottom hole
may indicate a plant has become "pot bound" and needs re-potting. Eventually,
most plants need to be moved into larger containers. When old pots are reused,
it is wise to scrub off all signs of salt buildups and then wash them with a
solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water for sterilization.
Dust and pests may be removed from house plants with a tepid shower inside or
a gentle hosing off outside. Always protect the dirt by covering the pot with a
plastic bag. Washing tender houseplants outside in heat and bright sunlight may
cause damage. Therefore, pick a shady spot and don't take too long.
Water alone will wash off most pests but you may also use a mild solution of
soap and water for a more thorough cleaning if you quickly rinse off all soap
residue.
A simple method for occasionally cleaning plants inside without water is to
gently use a feather duster. Don't use this method if there is any danger of
transferring spider mites, aphids or mealy bugs from plant to plant.
By Gerald L. Wood
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