You’ve done it. You’ve decided to become a plant parent. Now what?! Don’t worry, we have all the info you need to keep that new baby alive and thriving!

Learn the lingo

There are terms that plant people use when talking about plant care. It can be overwhelming if you aren’t familiar with the lingo. Here are a few to get you started.

Lighting

When it comes to lighting there are 3 basic types: low, medium and high. Most plants that tolerate low light, do well in medium and high light as well. But plants that like high light, need it to thrive, and will not do well in lower lighting conditions, so it’s important to know what that means.

Low Light: This is an area or room with minimal to no natural lighting, such as offices, bathrooms, and hallways. These areas have deep shadows.

Medium Light: This is an area of a room where the windows are between 3 to 5 feet away. Usually, rooms with East or West facing windows will get medium natural light. These areas have light shadows.

Bright Light: This is an area near windows where natural light shines through the majority of the day. Usually, rooms with North or South-facing windows will get bright light. These areas have no shadows

Direct Light: When sunlight shines directly on the plants.

Indirect Light: When there are blinds, curtains, or space between the direct path of the sun and the plant.

Watering

You would think watering your plants is easy enough, but there are a few terms that you need to understand so you don’t over or underwater your plant.

Water Thoroughly: Watering your plant until the water runs out the bottom of the pot is the best water to ensure it is getting the proper amount of water.

Standing Water: Is when water accumulates in the saucer below the pot. Standing water can damage the roots, and your plants will not thrive. Be sure to empty the saucer of excess water the day after you water.

Finger Test: The best way to test if your plant needs watering is with the finger test. Push your index finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil is moist, your plant doesn’t need watering today; if the soil is dry, water your plant thoroughly.

Watch our video: House Plant Watering Tips

For more care terms read our blog Glossary of Plant Care Terms

Success is in the details

Feed it: Plants need food too, not just water. Using a water-soluble fertilizer every few months will help your plant stay healthy.

Dress it up: Choosing a decorative pot is a great way to match your décor. Your pot should have drainage holes in the bottom since plants do not like to sit in water.  Drop-in pots or pot covers (when you keep the plant in the original container and drop it in its new pot) are great decorative options. New plants shouldn’t be repotted until they outgrow their current pot. When roots start growing through the bottom of the original container it’s time to repot.

Keep it safe: Keep your plant away from drafty windows or heat vents. Extreme temperatures can prevent them from thriving, and can also affect how much water they need.

Spoil it: Plants love humidity. Using a humidifier or pebble tray (placing a bowl of pebbles filled with water) near your plants can make a huge difference in their success.

Well-rounded plants are happy plants: Rotating your plant a quarter turn every week will help it grow more evenly.

Watch our video: House Plant Care Made Easy

Get more Advice to New Plant Parents on our blog.

For more information on plant care visit any English Gardens location and talk with an expert.