Dear Kitty,
I have a question about plants but it’s about my house plants. Is that okay? Here goes — my many house plants are starting to look sort of… ummm…stringy. I have a few ivy types, some with flowers (no flowers right now), a spider plant, an old African violet from my auntie and a motherin-law’s tongue. Should I try to fix them or just toss and replace? I know they are not food plants but I am hoping you will help me.
Thanks, Blah Plants
Dear Blah Plants,
Thank you for thinking of me with your questions. Yes, my focus is the growing of food, but I have some basics I can share for house plant care.
Be sure your plants are getting the proper amount of light. Without enough light your plants will be spindly, have smaller leaves, and grow slowly. Also new shoots will grow and reach for the light.
The watering of house plants is my easiest to address. Almost all house plants are OVER WATERED!! Overwatering causes leaves to wilt and drop off.
Roots and stems can get weak and/ or drown. Best watering advice — water your plants thoroughly, then allow them to dry out before watering again. House plants also need to be “fed”. Indoor plants need nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. It is okay to make a weak manure tea to feed your plants. If you like, a commercial organic feed works well also. I would use half the amount recommended. A feeding once a season is plenty.
Light, food and water. These are the basics. Do a bit of pruning, removing dead leaves and transplant to a new pot when the roots can no longer bear the pot they are in. These should ensure your indoor house plants thrive under your tender care.
Enjoy and take care of your oxygen-providing house plants.
Happy plants to you! Kitty
