Do an April Audit of Your Houseplants
April is when I like to do an April Audit of my Houseplants.
Why? It's when the days are starting to get longer, there's more light and your houseplants start putting on new growth. So as they get ready for this, I like to make sure they have everything they need to thrive. Instead of a spring clean, its a happy houseplant health check.
Here's what we do at The Green East:
Pest patrol
First and foremost, we need to check for any unwelcome guests. Pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can quickly wreak havoc on your plants, sucking the life out of them and spreading disease. Take a close look at the undersides of leaves, along stems, and in the soil. Use a magnifying glass if you have one, to spot any tiny critters.
Look for tell-tale signs like webbing, sticky residue, white cottony masses, or discoloured spots. Early detection is key. If you find any pests, isolate the affected plant immediately and treat it with an appropriate insecticide or natural remedy. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so regular inspections are crucial.
Watering check
Watering is arguably the trickiest part of houseplant care. Overwatering is usually the reason why you're houseplant has died. It's not that you have black fingers...its just that you've loved your plant so much you've given it a bit too much.
My top tip is to always used your finger. It's your best tool. Just stick your finger in about an inch depth. If its dry then its time to water. If its wet and the compost clings to your finger then the plant is wet enough.
Each plant will have different demands. So even though you may want to do all your watering on a Friday, for example, some plants may not be ready for it.
Always better to underwater than overwater.
Soil refreshing
Our houseplants are combined to their pot, which means that they cannot access extra nutrients they need. That means they are totally reliant on you.
I always like to check the soil on my houseplants thoroughly.
If it's hard, there may be a problem with compaction. I would then lift the plant out of its pot and gently lose with my fingers or a chopstick. I'd then repot it into fresh compost mix.
For really large houseplants, I'd check with a finger, and if the soil had white deposits, I might scrape off the top inch and replace with fresh compost. But even better get it out the pot, give it a rinse and repot.
Pruning
I know people are scared to cut off leaves from their houseplant, but for some this might be the best thing you can do. By pruning you can help promote healthy growth and encourage new shoots.
Pruning can also help to improve air circulation and prevent disease. For flowering plants, deadheading spent blooms can encourage more flowers. Don’t be afraid to be a little ruthless; your plants will thank you for it.
Give your leaves some love
Dust and dirt can block the pores of your plant’s leaves, hindering photosynthesis and making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. Gently wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth or sponge. For plants with larger leaves, a gentle shower can work wonders.
A leaf shine product can add a glossy finish, but avoid using them on plants with delicate leaves or those prone to fungal diseases. A simple wipe with water is often all that’s needed.
At The Green East we have some fluffy gloves that we put on and gently wipe down large leaved plants.
The rewards of a plant audit
I think that having an annual audit, you become much more in tune to what your plants need and can spot early problems.
You’ll be rewarded with lush, vibrant growth, and a thriving indoor jungle that brings joy and tranquillity to your home.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any help or have any questions. Happy indoor gardening!