I have always found keeping houseplants alive a difficult task - as my family would testify!
This is something I’ve worked on over the years and finally, my plants have started to flourish, looking luscious and full of life. I’m no expert, but here are my top tips for keeping them alive:
- A big hurdle that most people struggle with, including myself, is watering your plant too little or too much. Most plants come with instructions for watering, however, I often find it is a matter of watching your plant and seeing how it reacts to truly learn what the right amount is.
- Shade or sun - labels help determine which your plant prefers and it is essential to keep them alive. A lot of plants need some sun, so I like to keep them in open and bright spaces. However, plants (such as ferns) prefer shade so rooms such as the snug or living room are an ideal home for these.
- Finding the right pot is important to allow the plant space to grow, and proper drainage. When your plant looks like it has outgrown its pot, it’s time to repot. I often use old jugs, vintage clay pots, and my Sharland England Pinet pots are a favourite.
- Look for the warning signs - brown leaves, and leaves dropping or drooping. Adjust your plant care routine accordingly.
- To add that glossy finish, gently polishing a plant’s leaves with a damp cloth helps to create a lovely shine. Fertilisers also provide the proper nutrients a plant needs, to keep it looking fresh and full! Oh and…if all else fails, faux plants have come a long way since the ’90s and are a great option for those of us who aren’t green-fingered!
