Let's first start by saying there is no such thing as a ‘black’ thumb. Anyone can grow successful houseplants; they just need to learn one simple skill: LOOK.
The key to achieving flora-nirvana is to be observant. Every day, take a quick glance and look for leaf drop, browning leaves, the texture of the leaves, and overall happiness.
To start with your houseplant journey, here are three simple tips.
(Sorry...first segue, once you bring your first plant home, you become a "plant mom" or "plant dad" according to the plant community. It's like being a part of an exclusive club. I don't make the rules, I just follow them. Find some cute plant mom swag below, just click on the image).
Now onto the tips:
Water: This is less of a look and more of a feel. Place your finger on the soil and dip it down about half an inch. If the soil feels dry, then your plant needs a little drink. (Here is a great video, on exactly HOW to water your plants. I love her vibe, love that she spends 11 minutes being thorough).
FERTILIZER: To easily remember when and how to fertilize your house plants, think of them as if they were outside plants with a growth season and a rest season. During the growth season (Spring and Summer), your plant will require more fertilization. Conversely, during the rest season (Fall and Winter), they will need less fertilizer. To maintain my plants, I usually fertilize them every two to three weeks from March through September. Confused about which to buy and why? Here is a great article of Houseplant Fertilizer Suggestions to get you started).
Clip, Prune, Pinch, Propagate...but wait: It is recommended to wait until fall to prune and transplant your indoor plants. Just like with outdoor plants, fall is the best time for these activities because the plants are not in a heightened growing-state and will experience less stress. Give your indoor plants a good hair-cut this autumn. See video below, it's 5 minutes of your time and he does a great job explaining WHY and HOW.
Now, if you're in need of some good literature on the topic, look no further. I have this book and it is not only an excellent resource but it is SO beautiful set out on a coffee table. Simply click the image for the link.
Join this conversation on instagram and if you have any advice to share, please drop it below! You never know who you might help; me included!
And as always, plant what you love. Find hobbies that bring you joy, whatever they might be. Share what you know. Join others in their love for gardening or planting. When you propagate your first Pothos, give it to a friend and become bonded forever; or at least until one of you accidentally off's your plant because the above advice wasn't taken.
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