Indoor plants and succulents are so popular now, with gardeners and non-gardeners alike – so as Kelowna’s garden experts, we naturally get lots of questions!
They are popular because they have so many benefits – they can bring life and style to any room, remove toxins in the air and pump oxygen into any space.
We want you set up for success with your indoor plant, so we are sharing some important rules of green thumb on how to take care of it!
There are three major things to do in order to keep your indoor plant happy and healthy:
Most indoor plants prefer regular watering, but there are exceptions. Sticking to an exact, precise watering schedule can actually do more harm than good.
What's the rule of green thumb? For most plants, just water when the soil is dry. Use your fingers to determine the soil moisture levels and water if the soil is dry 2 inches deep (not just on the surface). Consider investing in a moisture meter - these are very helpful with house plants, especially the larger ones.
Another tip: the best time to water is in the morning! Watering before the sun shines in full force allows the plant to absorb more water.
Additional nutrients from fertilizer is critical for the vitality of your plant. Think about it as a vitamin or mineral supplement for your plant! Select a fertilizer suitable for your plant and follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
Another thing to remember - recently potted plants and low-light plants will require less fertilizer!
Plants are generally happy where you are – in warm, consistent temperatures, in the sunlight.
Generally, the more sunlight the better. Some plants tolerate light away from windows, but as a rule, no plant should be farther away than six feet from a window. Another way to think about this is to try to create a plant’s natural environment.
Succulents and cactus live in the desert, so they prefer to be in direct sunlight. Ferns come from the forest, so they need high humidity and less light. Our staff can find you the right plant for the location you have in mind.
At Bylands we have Kelowna's best selection of indoor plants and succulents, and experts to help guide you with caring for them! Come see us at 1600 Byland Rd, West Kelowna – just 5 minutes over the bridge!
A note from Bylands: In February all tropical and houseplants are 15% off (and 20% off if you are a Club Card member.) Keep succulents in mind for a thoughtful and unique Valentine's Day gift!
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