Essential Tools and Supplies for Proper Houseplant Care
Are you considering adopting a more plant-centric lifestyle? Do you find that cultivating and caring for houseplants provides you with a sense of purpose? If you're uncertain about the tools necessary for embarking on this rewarding hobby, continue reading this week’s post, which outlines the essential items for maintaining vibrant houseplants in your home.
Having nurtured houseplants for several years, I've learned that while plants require soil, water, and light to thrive, they also benefit from a bit of extra care. This can manifest in the form of physical supports, appropriate tools, or even a customized soil mix. Understanding the needs of your plants through sensory observation is vital. For instance, check the soil's moisture by touch, examine the undersides of leaves for pests, and be mindful of any unpleasant odors emanating from the soil—such as a musty basement smell, which can be a warning sign. These natural methods can greatly enhance the health of your houseplants.
For physical tools, consider the following items that I utilize to nurture my plants. Many of my houseplants thrive on vining, with some sending tendrils over the pot while others grow upright but can become top-heavy. This is where support becomes essential. Moss poles, trellises, or even simple wooden stakes can help these vines maintain their structure. Most plant stores carry trellises and moss poles, and with some research, you can create your own using sphagnum moss and chicken wire. Alternatively, Brew’s Plants on Tap offers a variety of moss poles for purchase; I have one for my Philodendron Billietiae, which appreciates the opportunity to climb.
If you are a collector of succulents or cacti, I have discovered that small gardening tools significantly simplify their care. These plants are often more delicate than standard houseplants, and using tiny forceps to remove dead leaves is far more effective than attempting to use your fingers. Additionally, a sturdy pair of gardening gloves is essential for handling cacti to avoid painful pricks.
For houseplants with larger leaves, investing in microfiber dusting gloves and a spray bottle filled with water is advisable. Regularly dusting your plants removes the buildup of household particles, ensuring that the leaves can effectively absorb the light necessary for photosynthesis and growth. The picture below features gloves that can be purchased through, We The Wild. You can find microfiber gloves in many different stores, too.
If you’ve encountered pests like thrips, scale, mealybugs, fungus gnats, aphids, whiteflies, or the dreaded spider mites, you understand the damage these creatures can inflict on houseplants. Thankfully, there are effective methods for managing these infestations. Insecticidal soap, neem oil, dish soap, and hydrogen peroxide can help combat these pests. Personally, neem oil has proven invaluable in my pest control efforts. I’ve also concocted a preventive spray using neem oil, dish soap, and water to deter pests from taking residence. Pests are particularly prevalent during the cooler winter months due to decreased humidity, making it essential to monitor your plants closely during this period.
Lastly, your houseplants will thrive if you consider creating your own soil mix rather than relying solely on commercial potting mixes, such as Miracle-Gro. Many of these products do not provide adequate drainage, which can lead to overwatering and root rot. A well-balanced potting mix that includes perlite, orchid bark, and a suitable potting medium will ensure optimal aeration and drainage. To enrich this mix, I often add dried coffee grounds and crushed eggshells for added nutrients. For succulents and cacti, a sandy, well-draining potting mix is ideal. Store your soil mix in an airtight container in a cool location to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.
With these tools and techniques, you can cultivate a flourishing indoor garden that brings joy and vitality to your living space.
