How To Get the Best Lifespan Out of Your Plants

We’ve all been through it. We’ve bought a healthy-looking plant, placed it in what we thought was the perfect location, given it water and even had a few conversations with it – and what happens? It wilts, goes yellow or brown, the leaves drop off and it looks like a very sorry version of its former self. 

But don’t worry, it’s possible to develop ‘green fingers’ – you just need to understand what your plants need. So read on to find out more. 

Where and How to Buy Plants

Many of us pick up plants while we’re doing our food shop. They look so appealing on the supermarket shelves that we can’t resist. But generally, this isn’t the best place to buy plants. If you’re an inexperienced plant owner, it’s best to buy your plant from a supplier that can give you advice on how to look after it. If you choose to buy from an online plant company, make sure that they’re well established, have good reviews and takes care to make sure they arrive as healthy as they were when they left their premises.

Consider Space and Time 

You may love the idea of a large plant, but do you have a space where it will thrive, or will it be relegated to a dark corner? Equally, if you don’t have a lot of time to spare, choosing plants that need a lot of attention is doomed for disaster. You’ll need to assess access to light, the temperature and humidity in your property and how much time you can dedicate to caring for your plants. 

Choose a Healthy Plant

As a beginner, you should only ever buy plants that look vibrant and healthy with new growth. If a leaf is simply damaged due to humidity or because it’s been knocked or bent, that’s fine but if there are any signs of infestations or fungus, leave it on the shelf. 

Caring for Your Plant Home

So, you’ve chosen your plant, picked up some plant food and of course, you couldn’t resist that pretty planter, so what next? We look at the most important things to consider. 

Light

Plants need light so if you’re not sure where to put it, put it in the window. Light is a plant’s food, so they need as much as possible. Not giving them light, is like putting them on a diet! However, plants do have different light requirements. For example, begonias, succulents, and cacti like lots of direct sun so they will do well in the sunniest window while plants from more shaded regions, such as Boston ferns or Bird’s Nest ferns will prefer a shadier spot. Plus, remember that the bigger the plant is, the more light it will need. 

Water

The simple rule is water when the soil is dry. However, it’s important to not over or under-water your plant. Rather than counting days to establish a watering schedule, feel the soil every couple of days. If it’s dry, give it some water. You’ll need to check to a depth of one or two inches rather than just the surface. If the soil is moist and smells, your plant will rot. 

Always use warm water for your plant as it absorbs faster and aim the stream of water towards the base of the plant rather than the leaves. Water gradually, waiting for the water to be absorbed before you add more. When water starts to run through to the saucer - stop. 

We Help You to Take Care of Your Plants

At Jacob & Roy, we not only provide you with beautiful and healthy plants, but each plant comes with a comprehensive set of care instructions too. We also offer a wide range of chic planters and accessories to display your chosen plants to their best advantage.