Did you know that there are science-backed benefits to keeping houseplants? A study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that the plants in our home make us feel connected to nature, comforted, and soothed. The same study showed that while gardening the participants showed lowered stress levels. Research shows that indoor gardening increases the feeling of well-being among people with mental illnesses. It also improves the quality of air indoors.
So, how does one get started on this journey?
If you don’t have an access to a balcony or porch but would still love to keep plants, then look for plants that can be grown near the window and plants that require low indirect light. To beautify your house, you can invest in hanging pots, wall planters, and even suspended shelves.
Sunlight:
Sunlight plays an important role in the development and growth of a plant. However, plants don’t need to be in the sun all of the time and can suffer a lot of damage if they are exposed to direct sunlight. While purchasing a seedling from a nursery or getting seeds, ask about that particular plant’s sunlight requirement and then choose a spot for it in your apartment. It is very easy to notice the effects of improper sunlight. For instance, too much exposure to direct sunlight can cause premature yellowing of the leaves, burnt edges, and dry leaves.
Get the right soil:
Soil is the life force for plants. They absorb essential nutrients needed for their growth and development from the soil. The pH level of the soil, along with its ability to retain water and how much air passes through it plays a major role in creating a thriving environment for your plants. Generally, most houseplants prefer the same type of well-draining soil, however, if you wish to grow vegetables or grow exotic plants, then research beforehand for the right type of soil.
Watering Schedule and Humidity:
Plants require water and it can become very overwhelming to keep up with the unique watering schedule of each plant. Plants tend to be more resilient than we give them credit for. Make sure to water your plants properly and not overflow their container. However, also make sure that you are giving your plants enough water. Both overwatering and underwatering can lead to stunted growth, loss of flowers and foliage, and damaged food. Maintaining the humidity for indoor plants is also very important as it tends to be less humid indoors than outdoors. Misting or getting a humidifier helps control humidity.
Fertilizer:
Now, that you are planning to keep houseplants, you finally have a sustainable way of dealing with food and other organic waste. Houseplants require nutrients and need to be fed either chemical fertilizers or organic compost regularly during their active growing period. Even if you don’t wish to compost because of the smell, you can still use your organic waste. For instance, tomatoes like acidic soil, therefore, you can feed them coffee grounds. To improve the foliage of plants, feed them coffee grounds and banana peels.
Give your plants the room to grow:
Plants will grow in height as long as there is enough room for their root system to expand. Therefore, repot your plant every year or two right before the active growing period. Also, make sure that your plants are not cramped in a single space and don’t have to fight for sunlight. Without proper space, the plants will fight with each other for nutrients and light.
Protect your pets from your plants:
Some plants can be toxic for our furry friends. Therefore, make sure that the plants you decide to plant are not toxic for your pets or are completely out of their reach. Also, try to keep plants that are resistant to pests and diseases.
