Bringing the Outside In
Whether your space is large or small, there’s no need to forgo the dream of having a flourishing indoor garden – as Mitre 10 MEGA ’s garden experts explain, there is a huge range of indoor plants available.
The first decision to make when investing in an indoor plant is location, and then select a plant to suit, as understanding the level of sunlight it needs will help you on your way to indoor growing success.
Most plants don’t like to be exposed to very harsh light and struggle to thrive when there are big fluctuations in temperatures. Look out for pale growth and weak flowering as this tells you your plant isn’t getting enough light and needs to be moved.
Your plants may also need to be moved as the seasons change. In summer, be careful not to expose your plant to direct harsh sunlight as this can burn the plant, creating scorched brown patches on its leaves.
Too much sunlight can also cause plants to wilt and fade. Positioning the plant further back from the window is a good way to protect it from harsh light, and make sure you rotate the pot if your plant is lopsided from trying to reach the sun.
Keep moisture levels topped up by watering small amounts often, keeping the soil evenly moist. Pots always need more frequent watering than the garden, as they can’t hold their moisture for very long.
Watering frequency will also depend on the room temperature. In summer it could be as often as once a week and in winter down to fortnightly.
The best way to check for moisture is to push your finger down the side of the pot into the mix. If it feels dry, the plant needs watering. Wilting is also a key sign that the plant needs a drink.
If your plant does completely dry out, then fill a container with water and submerge the pot right up to the base of the foliage. Hold it under until bubbles stop coming to the surface, then lift the pot out, letting the excess water drain away. Try to avoid this happening too much.
Some plants need additional humidity, which can be achieved by placing pebbles into a saucer and topping it up with water. The water will slowly evaporate, which the plants love. Alternatively, spray the foliage with warm water regularly.
Whatever space you have, indoor plants will brighten and lighten your home while improving the air quality, by helping filter toxins, and generally make your home more inviting and alive.
For more inspiration and ideas, visit mitre10.co.nz
