How to Grow Indoor Plants in Pots: 9 Important Tips

Indoor plants possess a remarkable ability to purify air, boost up moods, and create a tranquil atmosphere within our indoor setting whether its home, office, or under shade balcony.

The convenience of growing plants in pots offers you extreme flexibility and allows you to explore a diverse range of plant species that can survive and flourish in limited spaces.

It's time to dive into the world of planting mastery as we unveil a collection of simple yet effective techniques that will set the stage for your indoor plants to flourish. While gifting you back with breathtaking greenscapes nestled in exquisite decorative pots and planters.

HOW TO PICK A HOUSEPLANT

When it comes to purchasing plants, it is important to prioritise reliability by selecting vendors you have established trust in. 

You need to have good judgements while acquiring new plants, taking the time to carefully inspect them for indicators of robust health. 

DO’S

Look for signs such as well-proportioned growth, lush foliage or blossoms, sturdy stems firmly anchored in the soil, and an overall vibrant colour and appearance. 

DON'TS

When choosing houseplants, it's important to watch out for certain warning signs that indicate serious problems. 

Stay away from plants that have droopy or wilted leaves, soil that is excessively wet and soggy, stems that feel mushy or weak, or small and shrivelled growth. These signs mean that the plant is or may be carrying diseases. Be cautious if you notice an abundance of brown leaves, leaves that have fallen off or turned yellow, stems that appear stretched out, or visible insect pests. 

By adhering to these practices, you ensure that the plants you bring into your home are of exceptional quality and are ready to thrive in their new environment.

WHERE TO PLACE HOUSEPLANTS

It's important to remember that plants are living beings too and should be positioned in a way that gives them the best conditions for their growth. 

Don’t take them as a decoration piece only, as it will hinder their overall health and development. To ensure optimal growth, consider the specific needs of your plant, such as the amount of light it requires, the temperature it prefers, and the right amount of water and humidity it needs. By carefully considering these factors, you can create an environment that allows your plants to flourish.

HOW TO POT INDOOR HOUSE PLANTS

Explore the vast array of pots and containers available at Willow&Silk, from traditional terracotta to sleek, modern designs. When you're selecting a pot for your plant, it's important to consider a few things: 

• Material: The pot you choose should be made of a material that suits your plant's needs. 
• Size: Pick a pot that is the right size for your plant—just a few inches wider in diameter than your plant's roots. If the plant becomes too big for an existing pot, move it to a larger one. However, starting a plant in a pot that's too big can cause problems. The roots will not soak up water quickly enough as it drains through the soil. 
• Drainage capability: Lastly, make sure your pot has a hole at the bottom for drainage. Plastic pots are light and work well for hanging baskets or shelves. On the other hand, terra cotta pots are heavier and not as good at retaining water as plastic pots.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT POTTING SOIL FOR INDOOR PLANTS

Using good-quality potting soil is extremely important for healthy growth of plant roots. It offers a perfect blend of nutrients, air circulation, and water absorption. 

Potting soil mixes usually contain ingredients like peat moss, shredded pine bark, perlite, and vermiculite. While generic potting soils are available at garden centres. 

Different plants have different soil requirements. For example, orchids and bromeliads thrive in fast-draining soil, while succulents prefer porous, sandy soils. By selecting the right potting soil for your specific plant, you can provide it with the best possible growing conditions.

HOW TO WATER INDOOR PLANTS

Your houseplant needs the right balance of watering and drainage. Overwatering is a common mistake that can easily harm your plants. When you overwater, the roots become soaked in excess water, leading to gradual decay. This decay restricts the plant's ability to absorb nutrients and moisture, ultimately causing its death. 

However, you can avoid the risks of overwatering by providing your plant with good drainage. 

The traditional method involves using pots with holes at the bottom, placed on a saucer to catch the excess water as it drains through the soil. But nowadays, modern decorative pots and planters come in various materials such as ceramic, natural, composite, metal, and fibreglass, but still require extra care in managing watering and potential water accumulation.

PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHT, TEMPERATURE, & HUMIDITY

Majority indoor plants live in temperatures ranging from 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C) during the day, while it's best to keep the temperature around 10 degrees cooler at night. 

Houseplants generally prefer a level of humidity similar to their natural growing conditions. Air plants, known as Tillandsia, get all their water from the air and need regular misting with a spray bottle. 

But for some houseplants, it's important to prevent excessive moisture on their leaves for too long as it can cause harm. That's why ensuring proper airflow is essential for maintaining healthy plants. 

A Quick Tip: Placing a fan near your houseplants helps circulate air, evaporate excess moisture, and prevent dust from building up on the leaves.

FERTILIZE YOUR INDOOR PLANT REGULARLY

To help your indoor plants grow strong and stay healthy, it's vital to provide them with the nutrients they need, on a regular basis. 

Typically, you should fertilise your houseplants once a month while they are actively growing or flowering. However, during the winter months when plants tend to be less active, it's completely alright if you reduce or even pause your fertilising routine. 

Important: Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and different plants may have their own specific fertiliser needs or schedules. It's always a good idea to check the specific requirements for each of your plants or seek advice from a gardening expert to ensure you're using the right fertiliser and following the appropriate schedule for optimal plant growth.

USE PEST SPRAYS FOR INDOOR PLANTS

Unwanted pests like mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites can cause a lot of trouble for your indoor garden. 

Sometimes, even when you bring plants home after careful inspection, some insects may hide and appear later when you least expect them. That's why it's important to regularly check for signs of infestation. 

Every week, take a close look at your plants for any insects, holes in leaves, or sticky substances left behind by pests. If you do find any pests, it's crucial to isolate the affected plant straight away to protect the rest of your plant family from getting infected too. By staying vigilant and taking prompt action, you can keep your indoor garden healthy and pest-free.

GROOM, PRUNE, & REPOTTING

Taking care of your houseplants through grooming and pruning is essential to keep them tidy and visually appealing. Regularly remove any dead leaves and flowers using small scissors or pruning shears. When trimming the tips of leaves, be careful to follow the natural shape of the leaf as you trim. 

Moreover, it's a good idea to check your houseplants yearly to see if they need to be repotted. Signs that it may be time for repotting include slow growth and roots growing out of the drainage holes or above the soil level. 

When repotting, it's best to move up to a slightly larger pot size gradually, rather than going for a much bigger pot right away. 

CONCLUSION

Indoor gardening offers an immersive and satisfying experience that nurtures your love for plants and transforms your living space into a personal sanctuary. 

By implementing these techniques, you will create the perfect environment from the very beginning, guaranteeing a bountiful and serene haven that brings both joy and tranquillity to your sweet home!