 Moisture control and drainage Take your time when checking your plants' soil for moisture. Use a moisture meter, dip stick or poke a finger an inch into the soil then rub the soil between your fingers to test for moisture content. If the soil has compacted and moved away from the sides of the pot, water slowly or the water will run down the insides of the pot into the saucer. Remember potted plants dry out much faster than in-ground plants. Too much watering can rot the plants' roots. Be sure the water runs out the bottom of the pot. If watering from the bottom, check soil for moisture content often. Do not allow pots to stand in water-filled saucers indefinitely. When days are short, humid or cloudy use less water. Clay pots usually require more water than plastic pots. If a plant has dried out completely, place into a tub of water up to the pot rim and allow soil to soak up the moisture. I place my potted house plants in the tub once a month and allow the shower to thoroughly mist them with a fine spray. The quality of your water is also important. Water softeners can damage your plants. Use only clear room temperature water that has been standing for 24 hours. Most importantly check the requirements for each plant. Different plants have varied soil moisture requirements. Cacti and succulents require the least moisture. Orchids which need 60 to 80% humidity, require daily misting. Last but not least, check the bottom of your pots often and clear any holes that are clogged. And now to the rescue - a Plant Sitter |
||
|
Advertise Here AD RATES |
Top of Page
A Magick Garden™ © All Rights Reserved