Growing Plants Indoors: 7 Useful Tips

With so many vegetables to sow in the spring garden, it's easy to feel spoiled for choice. Today, we present 10 must-have varieties—some are beloved classics that shouldn't be missed, while others offer new tastes and introduce unusual plants to our garden.

It's important to note that planting times can vary—either earlier or later—depending on outdoor temperatures and the type of cultivation. We also need to consider where to store the seedlings once we have sown them. Those that are more cold-tolerant can be sown in the greenhouse, while those requiring warmer temperatures should be grown indoors.

This allows us to start sowing even a month earlier. Once the seedlings have sprouted and temperatures have risen, we can transplant them into the vegetable garden or a larger pot.

Watering Houseplants: The First Rule—There Are No Rules!

Watering plants once a week might seem convenient, but it's not always effective. This one-size-fits-all approach can lead to plant stress caused by our cultivation mistakes rather than pests or diseases.

  • Pot Size and Moisture Retention: Larger pots hold more moisture at the centre than smaller ones. Thus, a weekly watering schedule may be insufficient in summer and excessive in winter.
  • Plant Placement: Consider whether the plant is exposed to sunlight or kept indoors. For example, a small pot of basil in direct sunlight will need more frequent watering.
  • Water Needs: Different plants have varying water requirements. Succulents tolerate drought well, whereas plants like orchids have more specific needs.

How Much Water and When?

  • Amount of Water: The amount of water needed depends on the pot size. Water all the potting soil thoroughly and allow excess water to drain before placing the plant back in its saucer or cachepot. Different growing media have unique moisture retention properties. Superficial watering can lead to quick evaporation, especially in sunny spots.
  • Timing: Watering in the evening gives roots more time to absorb water before the sun can evaporate it. The interval between watering depends on factors like pot size, temperature, sun exposure, and plant type. Smaller pots need more frequent watering, particularly in summer, while in winter, watering should be reduced or even paused.

How to Tell When to Water

The best indicator is the soil's dryness. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Morning or Evening?

Avoid the hottest parts of the day to prevent heat shock to the roots and rapid evaporation. Early morning or evening watering is ideal, as cooler temperatures reduce evaporation.

Better Too Little Than Too Much

  • Underwatering: Plants will yellow and dry out without enough water. Most houseplants recover quickly after watering, but prolonged neglect can cause more serious damage.
  • Overwatering: Excess water is more harmful, promoting fungal diseases that can permanently damage the plant. Never let water sit in saucers for too long.

Choosing the Right Water

  • Water Quality: Avoid tap water high in chlorine for acidophilic plants, orchids, and those needing foliar misting. Rainwater is ideal, but letting tap water sit overnight in a watering can also helps reduce chlorine levels.

Where to Water

  • Direct Watering: When using a watering can, avoid wetting the inflorescences and foliage to prevent damage. Direct the water to the soil to avoid fungal diseases.
  • Bottom Watering: Watering in the saucer allows the soil to absorb what it needs. Empty any excess water after 20-30 minutes to avoid waterlogging.
  • Humidity Needs: Many tropical plants need high ambient humidity, which can be provided by misting the foliage, especially in hot weather or when heating/air conditioning is used indoors.

 

By understanding and adjusting to the specific needs of each plant, you can keep your houseplants healthy and thriving.