Monday, January 14, 2008

Indoor Plants

Many houseplants slow down in winter, and it's easy to overwater them. Indeed, we see far more plants killed with kindness than neglect. Instead of watering on a set schedule, always check the soil for moisture, and water only when the top inch is dry to the touch.

Hold off on the fertilizer, too. A few Orchids, Cyclamens, and citrus need feeding now (see our cultural instructions for specifics) but wait until late winter or early spring to resume feeding most plants.

The dry air indoors unfortunately encourages some plant pests. It's a good idea to give your plants a shower once in a while, which will make them perkier and often keeps pests in check. We move houseplants to a bathtub to give them a hosing and then let them drain before returning them to their windowsills.

Check frequently for insects such as aphids, whitefly, and spider mites. Regular sprays of insecticidal soap can keep these little villains in check, but infestations are much easier to nip early than after the plants are covered and weakened.

- White Flower Farm (link here)

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