When to water your plants?

You’ll often hear advice about following a fixed watering schedule for your plants, such as watering them weekly or monthly. Yet, this advice doesn't always apply, as sellers may not be aware of your specific living conditions. We strongly recommend keeping a close watch on your plants and paying attention to their behavior. Houseplants usually display clear signs when they need water:

  • Drooping leaves

    This is a common sign of dehydration, as the plant loses turgor pressure (the internal water pressure in cells that helps maintain structure). When the soil is too dry, the plant can’t absorb enough water, causing the leaves and stems to droop or sag. However, it’s important to check the soil moisture before watering, as overwatering can also cause drooping leaves.

  • Curling leaves

    When a plant's leaves curl inward, it can be a sign of needing water, but it depends on the specific plant and the environmental conditions. Leaf curling due to dehydration is a defense mechanism some plants use to reduce the surface area exposed to the air, conserving water to avoid further loss.

  • Soft or Wrinkled leaves

    When succulent-type plants are dehydrated, their leaves often become softer and wrinkled. Unlike other plants, succulents store water in their leaves, so when they're lacking moisture, the leaves lose firmness and may appear shriveled or wrinkled. This is a clear sign that the plant needs water, as healthy succulent leaves are typically plump and firm to the touch.

How should you water your plants?

Watering your plants can be done in several ways. Instead of just pouring water into the pot, think about giving them a shower. You can shower smaller plants in the kitchen sink and larger ones in the backyard or a shower room. Showering your plants not only provides them with hydration but also cleans off dust and helps eliminate most pests that may reside on the leaves, ensuring your plants remain clean and healthy.

When you water your plants, it's important to ensure that the soil is uniformly moist. Allowing the water to flow through the pot for a few minutes can be helpful. Dry soil tends to have difficulty absorbing water effectively, often resulting in the water running through cracks in the soil.

How to deal with pests

Among the most common pests found in houseplants are spider mites, aphids (often in the form of mealy bugs), thrips, and scales. Spider mites extract chlorophyll from leaves, while mealy bugs feed on plant saps.

The key to keeping your plants healthy is regular check-ins and cleaning. By routinely showering your plants or wiping down their leaves, you can effectively manage pests and maintain their overall well-being.

If you spot harmful bugs on your houseplants, follow these steps:

1. Isolate the affected plants from the healthy ones.

2. Remove the pests by gently wiping them off with a paper towel or Q-tips dipped in 70% rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, you can wash away the bugs by rinsing the infested areas with a garden hose or shower head.

3. To prevent bugs from returning, use insecticides like neem oil for a gentle, organic option or a chemical-based spray for stronger protection, ensuring careful handling.

Suggested Products for Routine Plant Care

  • Systemic Granules

    To treat fungus gnats, mealy bugs.

    Bonide Systemic Granules are used for houseplants as an effective pest control method. These granules are designed to be mixed into the soil, where they release insecticide that is absorbed by the plant’s roots. Because the product is systemic, it kills pests as they feed on the plant, rather than requiring direct contact.

    Get it from Amazon.com 

  • Microbe-Lift BMC

    To treat fungus gnats.

    Microbe-Lift BMC is an effective product for controlling fungus gnats in houseplants. This biological control uses beneficial microorganisms to target and kill the larvae of fungus gnats in the soil. It’s a safe and eco-friendly option.

    Get it from Petco 

  • Predatory Mite

    To treat spider mites.

    Using predatory mites is an effective and natural method to treat spider mites on houseplants. These beneficial mites feed on spider mites and can help control their population without the use of chemical pesticides.

    Get it from Nature's Good Guys 

  • Neem oil

    Neem oil is an organic solution commonly used to prevent and control pests on plants. It works as a natural insecticide, repelling and disrupting the life cycle of bugs like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies without harming beneficial insects. It's a safe and eco-friendly option for keeping plants healthy and bug-free.

  • 70% Rubbing Alcohol

    Rubbing alcohol can eliminate insects like mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites.

  • BioAdvanced Insect, Disease & Mite Control

    BioAdvanced Insect, Disease & Mite Control is a broad-spectrum pesticide that can be used on houseplants to protect them from various pests, diseases, and mites. This product is designed to provide both immediate and long-term protection for plants.