It’s no secret that Lockdown has brought us it’s fair share of challenges. But in many cases, it has been a place for evolution, growth and discovering new hobbies.
Take myself, pre-Lockdown, I was someone who bought a cactus and subsequently killed it before it had a chance to thrive. I even had a succulent at my desk in the Tank and murdered the poor love within about a month of having her. Albeit, through well-intentioned love I might add – I mean who knew over-watering was a thing? I was just trying to be attentive…
But somehow, during this lockdown season I have become quite the slightly-better-than-mediocre horticulturist. So much so, that I gave the other Squids a lunch and learn the other week on how to take care of plants! Who would’ve thought? Me, the Monstera Murderer, was now a certified Cacti Connoisseur.
Yes, I am a proud plant parent of 16 beautiful babies all in one bedroom. You see, when Furlough happened, I had to find a way to bide my time, and before I knew it, I was Googling gardening and pruning and propagating to my heart’s content.
But fear not, I’m going to share my plant knowledge with you too, because we all deserve to be able to grow and keep a succulent alive.
Plant Dos and Don’ts
- OVERWATERING – As previously mentioned, this is the number one killer of plants. To determine if your plant needs a shower, put your finger in the soil up to your knuckle. Completely dry? You’re good to go. Moist? Don’t water and wait a day or two. Also, always let water drain from the pot.
- Don’t do things by the book all the time – Don’t just assume because it’s a certain plant it shouldn’t be happening. Every plant is an individual. Look at your plant if the leaves look brown or are droopy, check the soil and check for infestation.
- Do move them around – Are they growing in one direction? Do they need more light in the winter? It might be time for them to have a new home.
- Don’t be afraid of repotting – No matter how much you water them it doesn’t seem to be enough? Probably time for a new home. Just remember to fully water them once you transfer them over.
- Dust your leaves! – Your plant can’t get the nutrients it needs if its leaves are dusty.
- Do talk to them or sing whichever you prefer – Studies have shown that talking to plants really does help them grow, and you know all this working from home can be lonely.
Finally, don’t give up – If a leaf looks a little lacklustre, it’s often not the end of the world. Persevere! Your plant will reward you for it.
Plants that are good for your health – and pretty easy to look after too!
- Spider Plants – targets formaldehyde and carbon monoxide in the home and is a low maintenance air purifying babe.
- Aloe Vera – this plant’s gel is a natural remedy for skin conditions.
- Lavender – with its soothing aroma, lavender is great for a restful sleep or anxiety.
- English Ivy – purifies up to 94 percent of airborne mold particles that can trigger allergies.
- Snake Plant – converts co2 in oxygen whilst you sleep.
Boston Fern – a natural humidifier and can combat formaldehyde, xylene and other unwanted toxins.
