What To Do When Your Houseplants Aren’t Thriving

Posted By Allen's Flower Market On Tuesday, 23 May 2023 Back

What To Do When Your Houseplants Aren’t Thriving

What To Do When Your Houseplants Aren’t Thriving

Description:

Are Your Houseplants Crying for Help?

Are you gearing up for a bit of spring cleaning? Consider giving your houseplants some extra TLC to help them adjust to the changing seasons. Just as the seasons affect plants’ health in nature, indoor plants can also be affected by changing temperatures and amounts of sunlight. In general, plants respond beautifully to spring weather. Houseplants that have looked droopy or wilted during the winter months can enjoy more sunshine, warmer temperatures, and a bit of extra humidity.

 

That said, if your plants are looking a bit worse for wear, here are some ways you can help them: 

  • Make sure their soil is moist but not soggy. You should be able to stick a finger deep into the soil to feel around where the plant’s roots are. If the soil is dry, give the plant some water. If it is waterlogged, let it dry out before watering again. If it is too packed to be able to feel around, it has likely dried and caked over time and should be replenished.
  • Move your plants to more or less lit parts of your home. Some plants need more light than others. Plants that lean one way, have slow growth or are sprouting unusually small leaves are probably not getting enough light and should be moved to a brighter spot. If it gets too much light, it will commonly appear yellow or brownish, as if it has been burnt in places. If this happens, move it to a shadier spot.
  • Ensure that your plants are pest-free. Common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can damage plants. Check the leaves and stems for speckles, spots, distorted leaves, webbing, or other pests. Many natural insecticides will take care of pests, and in some cases, a simple spritz of water on the leaves and wiping them clean with a cloth will eliminate pests.
  • Give your plants nutrients. A plant may need fertilizer or other plant foods if it is not growing well. Choose a fertilizer that is designed for houseplants and follow the instructions carefully.
  • Re-pot overgrowing plants. As plants grown in containers mature, their roots eventually will run out of space, and they will become root-bound. In other words, the plant’s roots will try to escape out any drain holes in the pots or slip out of the soil and over the lip of the pot. If your plant is root-bound or the soil is depleted, it may need to be re-potted. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and use fresh potting soil.
  • Remove dead and dying foliage. If a plant is overgrown or has damaged leaves or stems, prune it back. This will encourage new growth and help the plant to look healthier.
  • Give your houseplants extra water. By giving plants a little more to drink than they’re used to, you’re helping your houseplants adjust to more sunshine and warmth. If you are looking for ways to help plants retain their moisture, consider adding a layer of rocks to the top of the soil. 
  • Rotate plants if they lean toward a light source. Spring is when you’re most likely to notice your plants stretching out in the sun’s direction. When you see this happening, gently rotate your plant once a week to encourage direct light on all parts of the plant and prevent it from bending. 

Replenish Your Houseplants at Allen’s Flower Market

 

Allen’s Flower Market has your houseplant needs covered. Our selection of green plants comes in stylish, well-designed pots and will freshen any room in your home. We also carry an assortment of flowering plants to add a burst of color and a promise of lasting beauty. 

 

At Allen’s Flower Market, we are proud to be a family-owned business. We offer fast, easy delivery to accommodate your busy schedule. Visit our floral design stores throughout Southern California or explore our plants online. https://www.allensflowermarket.com.