Potted plants are popular for many reasons, be it a welcoming feature at your front door, a way to grow herbs and veggies in a small space, or a way to brighten up your inside space. Potted plants can undoubtedly add a touch of cheer to your home. There's a knack for keeping container plants healthy. Here are our top tips.
Choose the right pot
Apart from choosing an aesthetically pleasing container, there are other important considerations when it comes to choosing a pot. Your choice influences the foundations of your plant's growth. The size of your pot, the material it is made from, and its shape all impact how well your small garden will grow.
Lightweight pots are great for manoeuvrability, especially if you like to chase the sun occasionally. Shallow-rooted species and foliage plants do well in this environment.
Heavyweight pots are sturdy and can withstand all weather conditions. They are great for young plants, small shrubs, cacti and succulents.
A square pot is a good long-term option for sustaining deep-rooted plants like strawberries, tomatoes, and climbing plants.
Buy a good quality soil
A premium potting mix is a good foundation for your plants' future health. Nutrition is key for plants that don't have access to naturally occurring organic matter found in gardens.
Water and fertilise
Potted plants need regular feeding as they have less access to nutrients from the soil. Apply liquid fertiliser monthly.
In summer, container plants are prone to drying out, so water twice a day in hot weather, using trays to catch excess water.
In winter, avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and sick plants. Elevate your pots onto bricks or pot feet and remove the trays and saucers so the water can drain away.
Make sure your indoor plants are suited to the available light
Some plants thrive in lower-light environments, and others need more sunlight. Do your research before choosing an indoor potted plant, and ensure it has access to adequate sunlight if required.
Watch for pests and diseases
Regularly check your plants for pests and disease and take prompt action if you notice issues such as mould, root rot, ants, or other bugs. Treat them immediately.
Give house plants a dust
Indoor plants don't have access to rain showers to clean them. Dust can form on their leaves, reducing the ability for air and sunlight to penetrate. A damp cloth usually does the trick.
Prune
Remove dead or dying leaves to make way for fresh growth and a perky plant.
Re-pot as your plant grows
If you notice roots developing on top of the soil or growing through the drainage holes, the plant becomes rootbound and needs more space. Move your plant into a larger pot and choose a smaller plant suited to your existing pot.
Plateau Landscape Supplies is your landscape and garden superstore. We stock a wide range of pots, potting mix, fertiliser, and pest control products to create a thriving potted garden.