1. Know your home’s environmental conditions
Once that is understood, you can either match your plants to the conditions or change the conditions in your home to match your plants’ needs.
2. Figure out your light direction and intensity
South or east-facing windows will often provide the most abundant light but that’s not what every plant needs. Knowing what you’re working with can help determine which plants to put where and if you'll need supplemental lighting.
3. Pick a plant with paws in mind
Some trendy houseplants are toxic and can make your pets sick if ingested.
4. Put down the gardening soil in favor of a mixed-component potting soil
It will include components that help balance water, air and nutrients differently than regular field or garden soil, which is often too compacted in a pot to drain well.
5. Always, always, always make sure your plants have a drainage hole
It’s essential to avoid root rot.
6. Avoid temperature extremes
Plants can handle a range of temperatures. As a general rule, if you’re comfortable, your plants will be, too. But a big swing in temperatures can lead to yellowing, browning, wilting or leaf drop.
7. Finger your soil to know when to water
Following a weekly watering schedule can often lead to overwatering. Instead, check the moisture level of your plants weekly by sticking a finger in the soil.
8. Don’t fertilize during the winter
It’s best to start in the spring when your plants' active growing season has begun.
9. There isn’t conclusive evidence that talking to your houseplants will help them grow
10. Embrace failure
Sometimes plants are finicky, and while they may look great at the nursery, they might not survive the transition to your home — especially in the winter. That’s not your fault! Try starting off with some hardy, beginner-friendly plants before going for a challenge. If all else fails, you can always turn to Legos.
