New Plant Parent? This One Is For You: 5 Simple Tips For New Plant Parents

Becoming a plant parent is incredibly rewarding once you get to know your new plant companion. Here are some helpful suggestions to guide you on your journey to owning a plant:

1. Start by selecting the appropriate plant for your living space. Different types of plants thrive in various environments, such as indoor, outdoor, low light, bright light, and full sun. Conduct research, consult an expert like Pot O’ Greens, or take pictures of your space to help visualize your vision.

2. Don’t take on too much responsibility. Nothing can be more frustrating than investing time and money in showy, lush plants that you don’t know how to care for properly. After 30 days, they won’t look nearly as amazing as when you bought them. As a new plant parent, take it slow and start with one or two plants (or maybe three if you’re confident in your dedication). Once you’ve established a routine and gained more knowledge, you can gradually expand your collection.

3. When you bring your new companion home, you may need to repot it. Don’t let that scare you. Many plants, especially those from big-box or grocery stores, are rooted in peat moss. This media, while intended to keep the roots moist, is not conducive to prolonged healthy root growth. Plants from local shops like Pot O’ Greens are usually already potted in the appropriate growing media.  So, when you choose your plant, be prepared to budget for a pot, potting media (check out our blog on Soil Versus Potting Mix), and possibly fertilizer (if it’s growing season).

4. During the growing seasons (usually spring to fall), proper light and water are crucial for your plant’s health. No plant can survive without them. A general rule of thumb is to provide bright, indirect light or filtered light to avoid leaf burning. Most houseplants thrive in these conditions, and there aren’t many that are adapted to harsh sun rays.Water your plant when the soil is dry and the water drains out, letting it sit in the bottom of the pot, as this can lead to root rot. By taking care of the roots, you’ll ensure the foliage flourishes.

5. Pay attention to your plant’s cues, as they use sign language to communicate their needs. Yellowing or wilting leaves, brown spots, and even stunted growth are all indicators of an issue. Your plant is the best teacher of how to care for it.

   
   

Caring for plants involves trial and error, but ultimately, being a plant parent is a wonderful and rewarding experience. Take your time and be patient with both your plant and yourself. Before you know it, you’ll become an expert, collecting various species, plant tissues and the like.

The fact that you’ve decided to embark on this plant journey is an amazing feat, and the world is a better place with you in it. Happy and healthy planting to you!