Indoor plants are an excellent way to improve your air quality, decorate a room, and create a relaxing atmosphere at home. But unlike working with garden plants, indoor plants have their own set of special needs. If you dream of a lush collection of indoor plants, the guide below discusses several mistakes to avoid when caring for house plants.

What You Shouldn’t Do When Caring for House Plants

1. Not Providing the Right Light

Indoor plants grow best under conditions that mimic their native environment. Before placing your plant, review its care instructions to determine how much light it needs. Plants that are sensitive to the light can burn or severely dry out with too much sun, while sun-loving plants kept in the dark will wilt without proper exposure. If you have a hibiscus, jade plant, or papyrus, make sure to place the planter near a window with plenty of sunlight exposure.

2. Overwatering

Overwatering garden plants is easily avoidable because the surrounding earth will absorb excess water. However, house plants are often prone to suffering from overwatering due to their small container size.

Excess water will flush nutrients from the soil and can compact the growing medium — making it difficult for a plant to get enough oxygen. Regularly overwatering a plant can also rot its roots. Generally, plants with thicker leaves that can store excess water will need less frequent watering than those with thinner leaves that cannot.

3. Treating Every Plant the Same

The biggest mistake most people make with house plants is treating them all the same. After purchasing a new plant, it’s crucial to learn more about its specific needs for optimal care.

Certain plants, like orchids, require more specialized care, such as maintaining their sensitive roots by watering them the right amount. Other potted plants, like ferns, are more low maintenance because they may not require much sunlight or water. The more you know about your plants individually, the better you will care for them long term.

4. Skimping on Soil Nutrients

Houseplants will deplete the nutrients in the soil of their containers over time. To ensure your plants have the nutrients they need to grow and flourish, repotting them into fresh soil or applying a fertilizer to the potting material will keep your plants healthy. With liquid fertilizer, be careful not to add too much, as excessive fertilizer can overwhelm plants, and even cause chemical burns. 

Whether you’re looking for new garden plants to add to your collection or the perfect bouquet, turn to Laurel Grove Florist & Green Houses in Port Jervis, NY. Since 1912, they have offered the finest selection of flower arrangements, floral gifts, and indoor plants in the area with superior customer service. To speak with a knowledgeable staff member today, call (845) 856-3623 or visit their website to browse their selection of stunning floral arrangements, plants, and gifts.