Photo: AnemoneProjectors (talk) (CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Peachyeung316 (CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Jamo Photography (CC0, Wikimedia Commons) Mint (Mentha) is one of the easiest herbs to grow — often too easy, since its notorious spreading habit has ruined many an open garden bed. Grown correctly, though, whether in a pot or…
It’s tempting to think bigger is always better when choosing a pot for a new plant, but pot size has a real and sometimes surprising effect on plant health. Too large a pot can be just as harmful as too small, and understanding why will save you from some of the most common houseplant mistakes….
Waterlogging is the most common reason for wilting leaves and dying potted plants — more so than drought or pests. The problem is that roots need not just water but also oxygen. When the root ball sits permanently wet, the fine roots rot and the plant can no longer absorb nutrients. Proper drainage in a…
Photo: Jsch623 (CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Tony Atkin (CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Nigel Jones (CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons) What Does NPK Mean? Every fertilizer bottle carries three mysterious numbers: NPK. Behind them lies the foundation of plant nutrition. In this article, we’ll explain what nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium do for…
Beyond classic potting soil, a growing range of mineral and semi-hydroponic growing media are changing the way people grow houseplants. Seramis, Pon, Lechuza, expanded clay, the choices can be confusing. Here’s how the major modern substrates compare, and which plants they suit best. What Are Mineral Substrates? Mineral substrates are made from inorganic materials like…
Photo: Wildfeuer (CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Felloni claire (CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Mk2010 (CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons) African violets (Saintpaulia, now often classified under Streptocarpus) are among the most rewarding flowering houseplants, producing clusters of velvety purple, pink, or white blooms above fuzzy, rounded leaves. With the right light and…
Bagged all-purpose potting soil works fine for many houseplants, but different species have different root structures and moisture needs, and a single generic mix rarely suits them all equally well. Blending your own substrate lets you tailor drainage, aeration, and water retention to the specific plants you’re growing, often at a lower cost than buying…
Choosing the right potting soil is one of the biggest factors in healthy plant growth, yet garden centers stock a bewildering range: all-purpose mix, cactus soil, orchid substrate, seed compost, and more. This guide breaks down what actually matters when picking a growing medium. The Basics: What Makes a Good Potting Mix Good potting soil…
Photo: Jon Sullivan (Public domain, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Chris Woodrich (CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons) Pot size and drainage are two of the most important — and most underestimated — factors in keeping houseplants healthy. This guide covers exactly what to look for when choosing planters and how to avoid waterlogged, soggy roots. Choosing the…
Photo: Steffen Mokosch (CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Paul Cézanne (Public domain, Wikimedia Commons) Photo: Aniello Ascione (Public domain, Wikimedia Commons) Choosing a flower pot isn’t just a matter of taste. The material, size, and even the shape of a planter directly affect how well your houseplants thrive. Here’s how the three most popular…
