Indoor plants not only add aesthetics to the interior, but also have a positive effect on health, purifying the air and increasing humidity in the room.
However, in order for them to grow and develop well, it is necessary to provide them with ideal conditions. Creating the right microclimate for indoor plants is a key factor in their health and beauty.
1. Lighting: natural and artificial light
Lighting is one of the most important components for plant growth. Each plant has its own requirements for the amount of light, so it is important to know what level of lighting is necessary for your green pets.
- Sun-loving plants : Cacti, aloe vera and ficus need bright light. Place them on southern or eastern window sills, where there is a lot of light.
- Shade-loving plants : Dracaena, fern or sansevieria feel good in the shade or in diffused light, so they can be placed in rooms with north windows.
- Artificial lighting : If there is little natural light in the room, use special lamps for plants. They imitate sunlight and help plants get the necessary amount of light energy.
2. Temperature mode
Air temperature is also of great importance for plant health. Most indoor plants feel comfortable at temperatures from +18°C to +25°C.
- Consistency of temperature : Avoid sudden changes in temperature and drafts, as this can cause disease or stop the growth of plants.
- Winter care : In winter, some plants may need a cooler climate. For example, it is advisable to keep cacti and succulents in rooms with a temperature of about +10°C, as this contributes to their winter rest.
3. Air humidity
Indoor humidity is another important factor that is often underestimated. Especially in winter, when heating significantly reduces humidity, indoor plants may lack moisture.
- Moisture-loving plants : Plants of tropical origin, such as orchids, calathea and spathiphyllum, need high humidity (about 60-80%). They can be periodically sprayed with water or use a humidifier.
- Humidifiers and trays with water : To maintain humidity, you can place plants on trays with wet expanded clay or special stones.
- Reduce humidity : If you have plants that don’t like high humidity (such as succulents), avoid placing them near humidifiers or in humid areas.
4. Watering: the golden mean
Watering is probably the most common cause of problems with indoor plants. It is worth knowing the individual water needs of each plant.
- Moisture-loving plants : For example, ferns or azaleas need regular watering, but it is important that the water does not stagnate in the pot to avoid rotting of the roots.
- Succulents and cacti : These plants require minimal watering. In winter, watering should be limited or stopped altogether for several weeks.
- Watering rules : Check soil moisture before watering. If the top layer of the soil is dry to a depth of 2-3 cm, this is a signal for watering most plants. Use settled or filtered water at room temperature.
5. Ventilation and fresh air
Plants need fresh air for normal gas exchange and healthy growth. However, you need to be careful with drafts.
- Regular ventilation : Ventilate the room often, but do not allow the plants to be in the direct path of the air flow. Drafts can adversely affect tender plants.
- Avoid air conditioners : Do not place plants under air conditioners or near heaters, as they dry out the air and can stress the plants.
6. Fertilizers and feeding
Indoor plants, like any other, need nutrients to grow and bloom.
- Frequency of feeding : In the autumn-winter period, feed the plants less often, approximately once every 1-2 months. In the spring-summer period, when growth is activated, top dressing should be carried out monthly or according to the needs of the plants.
- Selection of fertilizers : Use special fertilizers for indoor plants. For flowering plants, choose top dressing with a high content of phosphorus, for decorative and leafy plants – nitrogen.
7. Transplantation and soil care
Regular transplanting and soil renewal help maintain plant health.
- Frequency of transplanting : Young plants need to be transplanted every year, and adults – every 2-3 years. Choose pots that are slightly larger than the previous ones so that the roots have room to develop.
- Selection of soil : Use special soil mixtures for different types of plants (for cacti, for orchids, etc.). This will help ensure proper drainage and soil nutrition.
To create the ideal microclimate for houseplants, several key factors must be considered: lighting, temperature, humidity, ventilation and regular care. By following these simple tips, you can provide your plants with comfortable growing conditions and enjoy their health and beauty throughout the year.
