How do I take care of my houseplant?

Caring for a houseplant may seem complex, but with the right advice, it's child's play even for a novice gardener. Here are a few key steps to ensure your plant stays in tip-top shape:

1. Appropriate light Most houseplants prefer indirect light. Place them near a window where they will receive plenty of light, but no direct sunlight. For plants requiring less light, a location away from windows may be suitable.

2. Appropriate watering Each plant has specific watering requirements. In general, allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid excess moisture, which can cause root rot. Use water at room temperature and make sure your pot has good drainage.

3. Temperature and humidity Maintain a stable temperature between 15-28°C. Tropical plants appreciate higher humidity. Spray foliage regularly or use a nearby humidifier to increase ambient humidity.

4. Fertilizing Fertilize your plants every three to six weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer according to package instructions.

5. Resurfacing and repotting

• Resurfacing: Before considering repotting, and especially for large plants or those difficult to repot, resurface every 6 months to 1 year. Remove the top 2-5 cm of old potting soil and replace it with fresh, nutrient-rich potting soil. This provides the necessary nutrients and renews weakened soil without stressing the plant.
• Repotting: Repot your plants every 1-2 years to give them more room to grow and renew the soil. Choose a slightly larger pot and use a potting soil suited to your type of plant.

6. General care

• Pruning: Remove dead or yellowed leaves to encourage healthy growth.
• Clean and Dust: Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
• Monitoring: Inspect your plants regularly for signs of disease or pests.

7. Advice specific to each plant Each species has its own particularities. Once you've welcomed your new plant, take a look at the detailed care instructions included in your parcel to find out about its light, watering and nutrition requirements.

Not sure what "semi-shaded" or "moderate watering" means? Don't panic! Our [Gardening Tips for Plant Care] section (https://blog.leonandgeorge.fr/docteur-plante) is here to enlighten you with practical guides and foolproof tips.

Still looking for information? Our Docteur Plante Service experts are on hand to answer any botanical questions you may have. Log straight into your account, select the plant and ask us your question. We're here to guide you through the garden of your imagination!