Tips to Grow Potted Plants

Tap to Read ➤ Kashmira Lad

There are many factors you need to consider when you wish to grow plants in the pots. Here are a few tips that would help you to grow healthy potted plants.

Who wouldn't love waking up amidst the greens before the daily routine of rushing to work! Not everybody is lucky enough to be working in a city that has a beautiful canopy of green. This is the reason many people spend hours meticulously preening their beautiful gardens.

The effort is worth when you see the beautiful flowers. But, some people have restrictions of space, and they have to plan differently to have greenery in their house. Potted plants are ideal for those who live in compact apartments and wish to be close to nature.

They require special care as they completely rely on you for their daily needs. If you have a liking for potted plants and are seeking for ways to care for them, then here are some tips and methods that will help you to grow them.

Select the Correct Pot

When you buy pots, do not get floored by the design. Ensure if there are any holes at the bottom, to help the water flow out freely. Plants need a sufficient drainage system to be able to grow properly. You don't always need fancy pots for plants.

Any container can be a pot as per your convenience and budget. Those living on rent and need to shift often, can use light weight containers. Even plastic containers would work well for them.

The Importance of Soil

There is a major difference between the plants that are grown in the ground and those grown in the pots. The soil and the conditions for the ones grown in natural surrounding differ from those grown indoors. Potted plants may tend to dry out more frequently than those grown outdoors.

The soil should allow proper drainage of water because excess water can cause roots to get damaged. Always get a good quality soil, as this is the base for healthy plants. Sometimes, one can even add polymer granules to the soil. These granules are very effective, as they tend to absorb moisture from the soil and release it back when needed.

For potted plants, avoid using soil from any garden. This is bound to introduce more problems due to the presence of weeds and insects. A safer option would be to go to a reputed outlet, which can give you the right kind of soil required.

Maintaining and Cleaning

These plants also tend to collect a lot of dust and grime. This gives them a very dull look. You must always remember that the plant should have clean leaves so that it looks healthy and refreshing. Use a soft damp cloth to wipe the leaves. You can even get a small spray bottle to sprinkle some water over it.

Requirement of Light

Providing the right kind of environment is very essential as these plants need a good source of natural light for their growth. The amount of light to be given also depends upon the kind of plant. There are specific indoor plants that require less amount of light and there are certain plants that require more sunlight.

Always keep it at such a spot, which gives it a moderate amount of light. If your apartment does not have any such source, then artificial light is advisable.

Method of Planting

If you have purchased a plant from a nursery, you would need to ensure it is watered in the original container an hour before you transfer it into your pot. Hold all the roots carefully while transferring it. Gently disperse some of the roots, if they are too tangled into each other.

Place the plant on the top of the soil mix in the new pot and keep filling small amounts of soil. Pat gently. The stem should be above the surface of the soil. Do not fill it completely with soil; leave at least an inch at the top. Once the plant is firmly set into the pot, water the container. This process will help you settle the roots into the soil.