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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 4 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 And so, the so, ideaAnd for the Houseplant Care born. was 101 book but with plants, the and knowledge to careLeafy select for them properly. it one step by further empowering not with just people our vibrant, healthy and shipping nationwide to keep up with demand. But we wanted to take We abrick as started and store, mortar then expanded into online ordering help discover people the joy the of more plants, we want people to help! and athrill it’s to on the be frontlines of the houseplant revival. more The we At Leafy, San we’ve Francisco been Bay Area’s indoor plant for years, experts popularity. their which explains homes, why houseplants have gained such tremendous Humans have always sought beautiful, calming, vibrant especially in spaces, inside, and express their personality. have ofand people them lots aspace, to bring used beautify alittle nature Houseplants have of décor, apart been for along time, and wellness, lifestyle home décor,wellness, collide. and lifestyle That feeling of admiration and calm you experience what is happens when unique and unlike personal, any place you’ve before. been furnitureThe might all from be Ikea, but something about the room so feels life, vitality, and energy, but with an unmistakable aura of calm and relaxation. green in plants the joyfully bask sun’s warm glow. room The abounds with airThe sunlight fresh, is trickles in through awindow, and bunches of leafy Have you into stepped felt ahome, just “right”? and everything INTRODUCTION

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 6 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 This book is for is you.This book about how to care for them before you expand your plant family. happily watering afew plants for awhile, but have questions some Maybe you already have plant on order aLeafy or two or have been window and want one for your own. are in love with that gigantic exotic plant in your neighbor’s front Maybe you’ve admiring been Plants everyone’s ZZ on Instagram or tiny and cacti succulents and are looking to take it to the level. next inherited aSpider Plant from your or have Mom, acute collection of Maybe you’re consideringfriend. buying Leafy your first very You’ve houseplants. Houseplant Care 101 are who for is people new to caring for unique variety, that’s not what this about. is book about the finerpoints and details caringof for each individual and We love While houseplants. we’d happy be to go on (and and on, on) 101! Care Welcome to Houseplant This Houseplant is Care 101. grabSo acup of tea, get comfortable, and let’s get started. happiness. and what they can do for the you,worth your effort, home, and your plant parenthood with one simple question -why? Why plants are Before we get our hands dirty, though, we’ll the journey kick off into of aplant that not is thriving and what to do to help it. care how faux-pas, to avoid them. You’ll learn how to recognize the signs We’ll give you the common low down on the plant most problems and that make for happy plants. the of sunlight, basics water, humidity, and other environmental factors to aplant choose and and what pot, to plants We’ll need survive. cover Instead, we’ll keep it simple and cover of how basics the need-to-know requirements or complicated soil balances. pH care requirements, and to we won’t boggle you try with humidity strict We won’t with go crazy exotic, hard-to-care-for plants with exacting

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 8 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 hs hpe wl hglgt h bnft o keig os plants, house it for what’s in why you, keeping and they’re it. worth of benefits the highlight will chapter This there moreBut so, to is that. somuch than them make anycan room amazing. look brightens or beautifies thehome, whichis totally fair becauseplants the aestheticonly theyconsider function that solelyrelates tohow it houseplants, of benefits the about think people some When they take it for work. -what’s in you? So However, they take do attention, time, short, commitment. In and Welittlea be houseplants are we might great.but think biased, OF HOUSEPLANTS THE BENEFITS

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 10 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 Many therapists agreethat Emotional Well-Being Boost Mentaland get enoughofthem. houseplants justcan’tseemto many peoplewhostartkeeping need houseplants.Thisiswhyso make thespacecomealive,you something tothedécorthatwill in yourhomeorneedtoadd If youfeelsomethingislacking thentic, andnecessarywithinus. into somethingveryprimal,au- feeling” that,ashumans,taps Plants exudea“closetonature let itstillaboundwithlifeenergy. feeling ofcozypeacefulness,but can imbueanyspacewitha Even afewsmallhouseplants comfortable, beautiful,andalive. looking roomcanbecome With houseplants,anordinary -and Feel-Stunning Make YourHomeLook responsibility forsomething Anytime someonetakes A SenseofAccomplishment emotional well-being. aids withmentaland the ambiancetheyprovide nurturing them,andenjoying Taking careofplantsindoors, relaxation. them attainhigherheightsof uplifting activitiesthathelp still beneficialtoengagein emotional well-being,it’s gle withmaintaininggood Even ifyoudon’tstrug- people’s lives. fulfillment andsatisfactionto ness, andaddsafeelingof stress, encouragesmindful- because itreducestheir patients tonurtureplants conditions. Manyencourage anxiety, andotherpsychiatric to helptreatdepression, gardening canbeagreatway healthy and well. healthy and well. attention tomakeitgrow and givingityourtime pet -beingresponsiblefor it the feelingoftakingcare ofa caring forplantsissimilar to Many plantparentsreportthat houseplants tocarefor. meaningful whenyouhave Every daybecomesevenmore conscious ofhowtheygrow. nurturing them,andbeing on yourplants,wateringthem, looking forwardtocheckingin after alongday’sworkand Imagine comingbackhome sense ofaccomplishment. beautiful givesatremendous and bloomintosomething it’s smallandwatchingitgrow Getting ahouseplantwhen comes in. sense ofaccomplishment thrives, andthatiswherethe will takeprideinensuringit else andenjoysdoingit,they

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 12 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 simply being presentinthe stresses andintowhatmatters - take youawayfromyour growing, andlivingthing can appreciate thisincredible, Simply takingthetime to tremendously mindfulexercise. Tending toplantsisalsoa of thestressesday. and thenaturalworldletgo you canspendtimewithyourself becomes your“alonetime”when spent takingcareoftheplant You mayfindthatthetime to yourdécor. you mightwanttoaddaplant life, andothercommitments), of dailyliving(work,family,social If youalwaysfeelthepressure Mindfulness. Minimize Stress.Maximize may bebest toavoidflowersor if yousufferfromallergies, it who sufferfromallergies, but Leafy plantsaregreatfor those particles. catch allergensandairborne serve asnaturalfiltersthatcan leaves andotherplantparts than roomswithoutplants.The prone tohavingmoldanddust rooms withplantsareless Research hasshownthatsome Dust AllergyRelief of yourhomewithhouseplants! same benefitsinthecomfort hiking. Youcanenjoythese walks, enjoynature,andgo are encouragedtotakeshort people, andthisiswhypeople has acalmingeffecton moment. Beingaroundplants for you. exactly tofindthebest plant Next, let’stakealookat how for you. wellness therapy,plants are beauty oralittlemental Whether you’reafterdecor have aplant. plant foryouandareasonto or arebarelyhome,there’sa Whether youworkfromhome can bring joy to your life. there’s aplant out there that your space with kids or pets, or spare or you rooms, share Whether you have roommates houseplants. lifestyle, youcanbenefitfrom allergies. Regardlessofyour which canaggravateyour plants withpollenandspores,

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 14Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 choosing your first houseplant. choosing Here are afew considerations when that you consider should looks than alone. choice good of benefit massive aconsideration, certainly there’splants and abit more a to making a are aesthetics While alone. looks on based choose to tempting be can it houseplant, first your choosing When PLANT THE RIGHTHOUSE HOW TO CHOOSE

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 16 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 Condition For Growth?Condition picking aplant. can provide important is before things your desired location beingso aware of each of these levels from their environment, temperature, and humidity Plants sunlight, need airflow, suited for your space. determine which plant well is living conditionsthese will kind of life it will have, and about the everything almost A plant’s location determines where you want to put it. aplant,buy this: it’s decide absolutely do before must you If there one is thing you Location Location, Location, into consideration when Here are afew things to take the it? space you can offer choice” butwill “first thrive in aplantchoose that your isn’t plant to adifferent location or willing to perhaps move the current space? are If not, you given the conditions in your Can you take care of the plant great “new home” for the plant. consider if your home will a be When deciding on aplant, plant you want to put there. of on the type growth, based to have the right conditions for want to put the plant in needs should know that the space you chapter but for now, 4, you for growth in more detail in We will the discuss elements sider. But it not is the only one. to con important factors most locationproposed one is of the your plant will get in it’s Knowing how much sunlight either. bedroom aplant, can’t support or dark-ishoffice corner of your but that mean doesn’t that your adequate houseplants, for most Bright indirect sunlight may be invigorate others. the wrongdry plants but will Too much sunlight will burn and placing and picking your plants. concern when it comes to to live, sunlight so aprimary is Plants rely on photosynthesis plant: choosing where to put your - very cold wintersvery or wild the country that experiences especially if you live of in apart Temperature humidity. traypebble to increase the prop plants up in awater-filled regular daily hand misting or to humidifier,commit You may to need install a considerations to healthy. be mayneeds require extra plantssome with high humidity but homes, common in most humidity level 30-60% houseplants can do well in the Fortunately, common most happy. for tropicaltoo dry plants to be radiators or heaters may be locations like areas near consideration and for plants, Humidity is an is essential is also abig also is deal, what kind of life your new plant and know location chosen Now that you’ve got the water during this time. plants will likely abit less need the colder months means that temperatures lower and during combination sunlight of less mindful be Just tions. that the tolerate winter indoor condi drop overnight, and many can mind aminor temperature Like in the wild, plants don’t 75 degrees F. plants can do well in about 60- room temperature, but many naturally appreciate awarmer willfrom They the tropics. varieties of houseplants hail (although certainly not all) Bear in mind that many hardcan be plants. on some temperature these as swings, - healthylong, life. lighting, which will help it live a airgood circulation and proper ensures that the plant can get for example. Enough space choice if you want plant, afloor theyso aren’t usually agood theirsend tendrils somewhere, Trailing plants will to need front window in afew years. nowdesk may awhole need Monstera thatThe on your fits your love and attention. it will grow afew after years of when you but how it, big buy consider how big the plant is space in your just home. Don’t plantThe will require adequate Plant Growth and Size about. smaller considerations to think will have, there are afew other

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 18 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 the plantand potthatyouget. shopping, asitwillinfluence go houseplantandaccessory amount inmindbefore you price, thenhaveabudget factor, butifyouthinkabout don’t havetoconsiderthis approach tothispurchase,you If youhavea“nobudget” to propagate. and howrareitisordifficult young ones),thetypeofplant, tend tocostmorethansmall bigger, moreestablishedplants its sizeandmaturitylevel(older, influence aplant’scost,suchas Several differentfactors your budget. sure thatyourplantchoicesuits affordable, youwanttomake While houseplantsarerelatively Price of theplant’s life.Doyouwant today, butfor(ideally)the rest you comfortablewith?Not just What typeofcommitment are choosing artificialplants. it, there’snothingwrongwith want towaterorworryabout that lookscoolbutdon’tever or reallyjustwantsomething no onetowatchyourplants away forweeksatatimewith can orwanttodo.Ifyou’re assessment ofhowmuchyou answer, justanhonest There’s no“rightorwrong” plants. willing andabletogiveyour time andattentionyouare is you.Specifically,howmuch consider whengettingaplant The mostimportantfactorto You before you bring them home. you are willing to give you plants sider how much time and effort important it’s so to constress, should add joy to your life, not the Plants plants themselves. requirements are diverse as as houseplants isthatthecare the manygreatthingsabout some levelofcare,butone Every livingthingrequires committing toit. that you’recomfortablewith to choosefrom),butthefact varieties ofplantsyou’llbeable give yourplants,themore time andcareyou’rewillingto matters (althoughthemore It’s notthelevelofeffortthat remember? That’sgreat,too! weeks, orwheneveryou only havetowatereveryfew Do youwantsomething almost likeapet?That’sgreat! humidity levels,andfeels specific temperatureand attention, frequentwatering, a plantthatrequireslotof - RIGHT PLANTER CHOOSING THE far concerned). your is as plant theaspectsright of planter (atchoosing least as First,let’s at look the two most important your budget. to you,the up is taste, equation your decor and that matter:things size The drainage. rest and of there As far are concerned, your is as 2 plant of pot -it’s your home planter. or new plant’s theyou restoffer about let’s can your think plant, Now that you know of what living sort conditions

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 20 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 cause itshealthtodecline. pulling much-needednutrientsoutofatoo-largepot,whichwill the chancetodrinkitsfill.Asmallplantmayalsohavetrouble will drainawayfromthesmallrootsystembeforeplanthashad a tinyplantingiantpotlookodd,toomuchsoilmeansthatwater However, apotthatistoobigcanbealmostasbad.Notonlydoes grow andultimatelychoketheplant. unbalanced or,muchworse,todieastherootsrunoutofspace planter fortoolongcancauseittofallasbecomestop-heavyand to allowforcontinuingrootgrowth.Keepingaplantintoo-small time, oftentimesplantsneedtobeupgradedintoalargercontainer While anewplanthaslivedquitehappilyinthisnurserypotforsome Size

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 22 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 is 1-2is inches larger in diameter than pot. the last For smaller plants (4” that or apot less), choose larger indiameterthan theexistingone. choose anewnurserypot thatis2-4inches time togoupasize.When goingupapotsize, Keep anewplantinits nursery potuntilitis drainage. and repottingmucheasierensuresgood a decorativeplanter.Thiswillmakewatering nursery potandplacetheinside It isrecommendedtokeepyourplantina not usuallyveryattractive. supremely functionalbut,unfortunately, drainage holesatthebottom.Theyare than decorativeplantersandhaveample Nursery potsaremadeofthinnerplastic aptly-named pot. and mosthouseplantsstarttheirlifeinthis Your plantwillcomeinaplasticnurserypot, Nursery Pots spread out. than itscurrenthomeso itsrootshavespaceto sure tochooseapotthat is2-4inchesbigger home. Ifyourplantiscontinuing togrow,make at leastonedrainagehole foramorepermanent nursery potanditdirectly intoaplanterwith Alternatively, youcantakeyourplantoutofits of re-pottingwheneveryouwantanewplanter. worry aboutsubjectingyourplanttothestresses whenever youfeellikeit,insteadofhavingto potters, whichhelpsyouupdateyourdecor well drained.It’salsomucheasiertochange decorative planterhelpsensurethattheplant is very well.Placingthenurserypotinside minute, butthegististhis:nurserypotsdrain drainage. We’llgetintothisinmoredetaila the plant’sperspective,anyway)iswateringand plant inanurserypot,butthemainone(from There areafewadvantagestokeepingyour ensuring thatthepotisnottoobig. time. Thiswillgivetheplantroomtogrowwhile go up in plants, by diameter onlyFor 2” 6”-8” at a If you want to that apot buy have doesn’t drains out of the bottom. othersome means of containing the water that want to keep this potter in adrip tray, saucer, or ample drainage on holes the You’ll bottom. thing with apot best The you can select do is yourpot plant directly into adecor potter. the drainage of other planters if to you choose are plenty of things that you can do to improve have drainage, pots good Nursery but there plant that likes continuously soil. moist to overwater, or if you’re growing thirsty avery even more dangerous if you have atendency of problems like root rot and This is fungus. up below the creating soil’s surface, all sorts thatPots don’t drain allow moisture to build drainage apot, selecting critical. is While size important is when it comes to Drainage First, abit about materials…First, shopping! drainage -are out of the way, let’s go planter Now that the main two concerns -size and drainage. improve of apoorly-draining another is pot great way to even of pieces broken plant at the pots bottom Adding substrates like large or rocks, pebbles, drilled,be you can still create soil some drainage. withoutFor drainage pots that or holes pots can’t for plastic pots). (perfect holes of you the can pot, drill in your own drainage on your handy skill person level and the material you have is, news good afew Depending options. drainage you’ll holes, to need create The some.

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 24Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 grades in the sun. Most plastics also are also grades in plastics the not sun. Most long. Plasticvery breaks easily and photode even thick don’tPlastic usually pots, ones, last materials. to come, you may want to at look sturdier looking for something that will for years last agreat is plastic pot option. But if you’re If you like “cheap and cheerful,” acolorful patterns and designs. and readily available in tons of different colors, option. are Plastic pots lightweight, low cost, arePlastic pots apopular and commonly used Pots Plastic - the nursery pot inside pot the nursery adecorative planter. you’llly-sized pot, nursery probably want to put idea togood keep your plant in an appropriate attractive or suitable While for decor use. a it’s dark green, However, or black. they’re not very are pots nearlyor repot. Nursery always green, to when buy you want to propagate your plants which makes them lightweight and inexpensive are pots always almost made Nursery of plastic, you’d expect. which can make your plant warmer roots than plastic can and attract trap the sun’s heat, aware Be biodegradable that plastics. black conscious manufacturers are coming out with environmentally friendly, although many - hung on awall. havepots aflat side and are designed be to the name implies, As these unexpected look. arewall pots becoming popular for their A relative newcomer to the world of plant pots, Pots Wall plant in aceramic pot. careful extra dropped, be so if you’re moving a you live in achilly area. They crack also easily if leaving them or near outside acold window if can crack in freezing temperatures, avoid so However, one thing to aware be of, that is they and along can time. last other options, but they are agreat investment They are usually abit more expensive than popularthe material most for indoor planters. versatile planter material. Ceramic arguably is range of different making colors, ceramic a attractive. Glazingvery applied can be in awide Ceramic are pots heavy, sturdy but very and CeramicGlazed Pots your plant decor. expressing your creative side or personalizing cal to and easy paint for or decorate -perfect terracotta planters are quite often economi- Depending on the design and manufacturer, handle constant moisture around their roots. beneficial to drought-tolerant species thatcan’t from the soilout quickly, and dry which can be many gardeners appreciate: they absorb water nature give does them one advantage that compared but their to porous plastic pots, Terracotta tend pots to abit heavy be easily if dropped. once the clay has hardened, but breaks also terracotta clay, aporous material that strong is classic darkThese are orange pots made from thinkpeople of when they think “plant pot”. Terracotta are pots probably what most Terracotta Pots moving or rotating the plant abreeze! basket have also pots built in handles that make for medium to larger plants well, as many as surprisingly practical potter option. They’re good Basket make Pots aunique, beautiful, and leaking through and damaging the or table. floor inner saucer to prevent excess water from topot protect the basket from rotting or aplastic You’ll want to make sure you aplastic inner use tightly-woven baskets that hold also plants. arepots exactly what they sound like -sturdy, and updated. transporting just plants, Basket This new trend atraditional is means of storing Pots Basket to leak through the planter’s drainage hole. overwatering as below it, can excess cause water hanging, mindful very be of anything placed toIf you water do try the plant while it’s plant back up dry. when it’s any excess water to drain and out, then hang the watering. Water the plant usual, as and wait for basket to is take the whole plant down before to watering. ideal The way to water ahanging Hanging plants require care extra when it comes create and maximize vertical space. your plants get enough sunlight, and can help are agreat and decorative way to help make sure a window to keep your hanging plants, baskets If you don’t have awindowsill or sunny place near purposes. for decorative and and Pothos, are perfect Ivy Hanging baskets are great for trailing plants like Baskets Hanging

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 26 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 Colors: yellow navy and Colorway pots different in sizes naturally blend into your home décor. and hardwarelocal craft stores: will these make out your stand and pots You cancreative find very items personalizeto your containers in your or other shells, glass tiles, materialspebbles, to create aunique planter. You with aplain can start plastic or terracotta and pot decorate it with do-it-yourself, to unexpected express pots or otherwise your signature style. eye-catching, unique arrangement in your home. You creative, can use containers such abeautiful as or ametal glass bowl box to provide amore of plant beauty The that is other pots you kinds can select of material or Do-it-Yourself Options we generally recommend going up by no more than in diameter. 2” to grow and expand For smaller root its system. plants (4” in diameter), -8” one that’s about inches 2-4 larger in diameter to give your plant more space If your plant outgrows and pot you its have to transplant it to alarger get pot, pot. diameter For example, aplant that listed is 6” not as is 6” high, but planted is in a6” diameter of the that pot the plant in, potted is not the size of the plant. Carnosa Hoya ‘Compacta’a short size 4”? both The be actually refers to the Ever wondered how plants are sized? How can atall skinny Ficus Lyrata and YourKnowing Size HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT POT

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 28 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 GROWTH HOUSEPLANT ELEMENTS OF Here we go: alittlebut more detail necessary. is the right plant, talked choosing about we these 2when Chapter on abit in aliveplant thriving. and We touched your keeping when consider should aspects youthe most important Thisyou help chapter will highlight now what? planter - abeautiful designer and Okay, you’ve got ahealthy Leafy plant

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 30 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 Ceramic Cylinder Planter of bright, intense sunlight. sunlight. intense bright, of andCacti succulents love this type near large South facing windows. environmentshade-free indoors or this level of light outdoors in a that plants can tolerate. You’ll find This the is highest level of sunlight Sunlight Direct Bright, 1. of sunlighttypes five The are: why in aminute. better You’llOr yet, grab abook. see of lightingwhat type the space has. times of the day to for get asense like to keep your plant at different Takelevels. at alook the place you’d Sunlight divided into can be five species. a plant on depends the plant needs the exact amount of sunlight that Your houseplant light, needs but LIGHT LOCATION AND

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 32 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 enjoy bright, indirect sunlight. sunlight. indirect bright, enjoy Plants like palm Monsteraand ficuses, trees, or West facing windows on asunny day. this in South spaces with unobstructed East, theis ideal light for reading You’ll abook. find intenseLess than bright, direct sunlight, this Light Indirect Bright 2. and Philodendrons. medium light are Peperomia, Pothos, Examples of plants that do well in absorb all the sunlight it can. ing plant to closer the window to help it opposite approach: put amedium light-lov in front facing window, of aNorth take the get too sun-soaked. If you’re placing plants feet away from the window, they so don’t window, situate medium-light plants afew In of the abright case South or West facing a large facing window. North or windows or West, that South, East, face the day. room The may have medium sized comfortably read of for at part abook least A room with medium light will allow you to Light Medium 3. - to flower butwill still be able to survive. and plants like the Peace Lily may able not be likely restricted be due to the lack of sunlight, tolerate low light. aware Be that growth will hardybut some plants like Pothos can Low light for growing the isn’t best plants, buildings, or trees outside. sunlight may by awnings, obstructed be and or West, North Windows may East, face space. middle of the day, consider this alow light have to turn on alight to read in the abook but you’ll probably strain your If you eyes. You might able be to read in low abook light, Light Low 4. windowsill every day. every windowsill low-light location plants afew hours on a plants throughout your home and give your artificial light bulbwith a grow light, or rotate chance Alternatively, at survival. replace your like Plant ZZ or Sansevieria will have the best lighting conditions, alow-light tolerant species If you’re looking at aspace with less-than-ideal the plant’s health may decline. growthas will certainly almost stunted, be and avoid to trying grow aplant low in light, very or artificialno windows, light only. to best It’s spaces mayroom. These have small, few, or difficult to very It’s readlow in a lightvery Very Light Low 5.

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 34 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 Ceramic PlanterCeramic with Tray Drip ROOM TEMPERATURE little Leafy friend.little Leafy changes which harmful can be to your temperature extreme produce can and air conditioning all as units, of these (depending on where you live), drafts, radiators, fireplaces, wintercold weather should keep them away from heaters, temperature changes You with plants. More there so, shouldn’t sudden be they may suffer. temperatures or degrees, below 50-55 houseplantsexposing to most prolonged to drop it as naturally would, but avoid At night, the temperature allowed can be range and still fine. be the 60-degree plants can tolerate also temperatures in degrees during the day, although many temperatures and 75 65 between You will want your plants to experience tropical. your living room windowsill less-than- is are hardy pretty also and forgiving if that popular houseplant most varieties said than done, is but news the good tropical conditions. This alot is easier environment will ideally similar be to which means that your indoor Many houseplants are tropical plants, HUMIDITY can aggravate asthma symptoms. spaces with too high and too low humidity respiratory infections or cough Both alot. Insteadnose. of mould, you may notice especially around and lips, your eyes, face, humidity) dry. feels You may notice skin, dry A space with low humidity (under 40% indicative of high humidity. Windows that over fog quickly are also things like mould, bacteria mites. or dust damp, and you may have problems with Ahumidit. space (over humidity) 60% feels extremely high humidity, you’ll probably feel If your home has extremely low or options available well. as humidity, but there are afew low tech reliable way to determine your home’s A digital and thermostat most the is best level probably is within this range. insulated and ventilated, your humidity -if your home properly is 40-60% is idealThe humidity range for inside ahome the indoor air dry. is especially important during winter when love humidity. is Humidity levels are ofOne the things that houseplants most

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 36 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 philodendrons. and pothos, sansevierias, plants, ZZ normal humidity notably level, most Many houseplants do well with this sparingly. either aren’t turned on or run only Air conditioning heating or systems “regular” or -not too too damp. dry with medium humidity feels cohabitatecomfortably room A in. plants and to people most This an is ideal humidity range for (30-60%) Medium 2. well in environments. these Plants like Ficus and Monstera do or dew on the windows. hot shower. You may even notice fog a greenhouse or abathroom a after indicates, like what you would in feel much warmer than the temperature tropical This room plants. will feel A high humidity space ideal is for (60-100%) High 1. They moved can be back to their regular location in the spring. provided there enough is light, to help winter. the them dry survive You may want to group the plants in ahumid bathroom or kitchen, During winter, humidity levels usually drop, especially in cold climates. If you think that the room’s humidity too is low, you can increase it by: humidity in the room or the area around just the plants themselves. humidity, don’t despair! You can do plenty of things to increase the houseplants will have ahard time thriving here. If your space has low are notorious for thriving in low humidity conditions, but more lush sucking moisture out of the air. Plant options like and cacti succulents water. air Indoors, conditioners, or heating may run systems frequently, level of humidity or arid common is locations to away far deserts from This space dry, feels cooler than often the temperature This suggests. Humidity (0-30%) Low 3. helping to counteract the heater’s effect. drying in the dish and heats evaporates, it will increase the humidity, Place asmall dish of water on or near aradiator. the water As humidity around the plants. the waterAs from the tray pebble evaporates, it creates extra the soil too become soaked with water, which will root cause rot. Propit. the plant or small on pebbles pots to rocks avoid letting Putting the plants on tray, apebble ashallow tray with water in microclimate humid Grouping the plants together to help them create their own Using ahumidifier to regulate the humidity Misting the plants with water afew times aday

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 38 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 SOIL what nutrient it’s mix like, is if it has been quickly. You have also no way of knowing likely and to compact too too be heavy your too. Unknown houseplants, is dirt digging up from dirt to in outside use Avoid the urge and to save try money by growth. tablish resulting themselves, in stunted can make also it difficult for es to roots and watersoils flow Heavy to the roots. compacted, it becomes can stifle oxygen soil If the for plants. potted heavy heavy commercialMost garden soils are too sential, too so drainage. is While nutrient and balances pH are es nutrient mix. houseplantaged mix to ensure the right major, idea to apack agood it’s choose to thrive. Even if you were aChemistry adequatelybe maintained for your plants nutrientas and drainage levels to need soil both is and an ascience, art perfect nutrient-rich soil to thrive. Mixing the well-drainingHouseplants need and healthplants and happiness. your determining in factor important the quality of your soil will the be next light,After temperature, and humidity, - - - organic material to promote plant growth. better drainage but still contains necessary additional sand and lava rock to encourage contain likely will which succulents, specially formulated and cactus for hold much as doesn’t moisture. for Opt asoil a slightly different soil that drains well and conditionsfor desert means they will prefer aware that their drought tolerance and love If you’re growing or succulents, cacti be compacted, and encourage proper drainage. aerate, prevent soil from becoming Organic additives like perlite help soil guano, feather meal and kelp meal. material, earthworm bat peat castings, moss, fertilizers like bark aged and organic forLook potting soils that contain organic grow. getroots enough water, oxygen, and room to drainage and aeration, which ensures plant soils areThese designed to facilitate good specially formulated houseplants. indoor for available organic potting soil that is stick with results, acommerciallyFor best houseplants not it. is worth riskThe to unknown your poses dirt new you don’t want growing in your home. if it contains of other which the plants, seeds treated with harmful toxins or or pesticides,

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 40 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 of the Fern family. include Peace Lilies members and most Examples of high water plants need waterings.soil out to between dry Only allow out. drying the top ½inch of regularly to make sure they’re not andtimes check week, the per soil level, to expect water plants these 1-2 Depending and on the humidity season butkept not soggy. moist, Plants with high water like needs to be 1.High can be divided intocan be three different levels: Generally speaking, plant water needs before taking it home. the watering of the needs plant you get for to you growth so need understand However, water element acompulsory is season. every change needs otherSome plants have their water others are sensitive to very wet foliage. more water, others require while less, for each plant. While plants some require watering rules and application methods different are there dynamic: quite Your houseplant’s watering is aspect WATER Philodendrons, Peperomia and Calatheas. Popular medium water plants include Pothos, watered.be Check the soil to determine when the plant to needs and water frequently less during cooler months. during hot weather when water evaporates faster, You will likely to need water them more frequently wait untilsmaller pots, only the top inch of soil dry. is top 2-3 inches of soil waterings. in to between dry In Waterneeds. plants these weekly, and allow the common houseplantsMost have medium water Medium 2. species of plant:species schedule, there are afew basic provisions that apply every to most In additionCacti. to making sure your plants are on the proper watering Examples of popular low water plants are Plants, Sansevierias ZZ and watering if the temperature hot or kept very is direct in sunlight. very plantsthese do not enjoy they staying will additional moist, need succulents should allowed be completely to dry before watering. While waterings, out between dry but plantsmostly like and cacti Low water plants Allow should watered the be soil to weeks. 2-4 every Low 3. keeping up with simple some housekeeping. keepingout, your indoor jungle alive and thriving amatter just is of basic elements of houseplant care. Once you have figured basics these Light, temperature, humidity, soil and water are important the most high temperature shock. room temperature water this as the protects plant from low or compensate for decreased sunlight and lower temperature. Use humidity. During winter, you may to need reduce watering to thingsing system, like lower room temperature and decreased in mindful seasonality,Be of shifts and if you run acentral heat leaves, this could asign be of overwatering. which root causes rot. If you notice stunted growth or yellowing Overwatered plantsplants. from usually alack suffer of oxygen, let theDon’t plants sit in water, even if they’re high very water leaves. they really the soil need around the to roots not wet, their be can help increase humidity for humidity-loving tropical plants, through their leaves, but through the soil. While misting leaves not waterDo the foliage (leaves). Plants do not absorb water begins to run out of the bottom of the into pot the drainage tray. by adding water alittle bit at atime. Stop when the water If watering from the top, carefully do so and avoid overwatering excess drainage. ensures that you don’t overwater, and by caused reduces mess when the top Watering of the moist. soil just is from the bottom the size of but the you’ll pot, know the plant has drunk fill its exact The amountof pot. the nursery of time will depend on the water through it needs the drainage at holes the bottom into pot nursery ashallow tray of water. plant The will absorb all out pot of thenursery decorative planter and place the the plant When time it’s pot. in anursery to water, take the A great way to water a plant from is the Ideally, bottom. leave -

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 42Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 YOUR HOUSEPLANT HOW TO CARE FOR getting care: good Here are afew to you to help mind your is things ensure keep plant in towards your Leafy keeping friends healthy thrivingand for years to come. blooms), way along health go for of will ill or disease signs inspecting and pests, dusting leaves, (removing occasional or deadheading pruning spent for alittle to and housekeeping check regular toof access sunlight, plant, plants have pretty watering, the Regular on modest type based care needs. humidity, ofsunlight, amount temperature, -you’ll soil good and most find elements the of basic care plant haveOnce -the right established been

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 44 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 unable to water your plants regularly. options if you’re going away on vacation or absorb much as water they as need), are great and have awicking that system allows plants to watering (which pots hold water in areservoir help your plants to water and self themselves, Using awatering stick or watering globe can your few plants weeks. every can areminder set on your calendar to water forgetting to water them occasionally. you Or drought tolerant plants that won’t mind you Youheart! have afew options: You can opt for If you tend to forget to water your take plants, bad!). as just be due to dehydration (although overwatering can all will to watered. need be sick plants die Most While more need some water water, or less they repeating -no plant without can survive water. This sounds like ano-brainer, but worth it’s Provide Consistent Water tion to out look for when caring for your plants: Here are the signs of overwatering and dehydra to dehydration. underwater which people plants, leads cases, keep them healthier or better In “fed”. other overwaterpeople their plants thinking it will In abid to great be at houseplant care, some Underwater Overwater Or Don’t room temperature water for your plants. to stick to best it’s plain, sip oflast cold coffee, of the soil. While tempting it’s to of the dispose like and the balance milk pH caffeine can affect honey or other things sweeteners in Also, it. especially if you drink or tea with coffee sugar, tea may flies attract thatwill irritate the plant, several andThis can problems pose -coffee plants. especially office houseplants, pour unfinished people Some in tea or coffee Pour Tea Your In Don’t Coffee Plant Or - in its newin place. its the lookout for signs that the plant not is thriving gradually and mindfully and on be possible, as plants from one extreme to another, as do so you it regularly. mist If you absolutely move must radiator dry a hot, in front of awindow, even if window may experience if placed on difficulty say,and has been, living in abathroom with a Likewise, aplant that alot of humidity needs in outside direct sunleft for aprolonged period. A plant that well does in low-light if will suffer another damaging can be to their health. However, moving plants from one extreme to day to soak up sun. some front of awell-lit window for afew hours each kitchen or bathroom can thrive placed if it’s in a low-light space, like adark corner, bedroom, aplantconsiderations. living In cases, some in surroundings, but they some do need Plants easily acclimatize themselves to their Mindfully Move moist, or too dry,moist, and water accordingly. ground to determine whether or not still it’s by sticking your finger a few inches into the you purchase. When in doubt, check the soil stick to the watering guidelines of the plants To avoid either of problems, you these should symptoms: show the Plants followingOverwaterd symptoms: Dehydrated show the Plants following Roots feel mushy feel Roots Young and old leaves falling off Fungus or on molds the soil surfaces edges Yellowing Leaves with dark brown patches Soil to will the dry be touch Wilted look leaf growth Slow Brown and crispy leaf edges Prematurely dropping flowers or leaves Translucent leaves The best way to make best The sure your plants are well come home to wilted weak, or dead plants. watering and sunlight rotation will mean you houseplants when you travel, of regular the loss houseplants? If you don’t take care of your behind), right? why So not do the same for care of your (if to you pets choose leave them When you travel, you make sure takes someone You When For Plants Care Consider Travel gently, around the roots. and grow. Instead, pat the soil down firmly, but makingroots, it harder for the to roots expand andoxygen compressing the around dirt the can actually harm the by roots squeezing out aware be newin pot, its that excessive pressure important to make sure the plant well is seated to the press soil down around the plant. While it’s When repotting, many have people atendency to help it in. settle repotted, it should watered be again thoroughly strange surroundings. the plant After has been water before possible as being placed into This allowsit. the to roots absorb much as water the plant thoroughly very before repotting To avoid transplant important also it’s to shock, this why is using consistent important. soil so is the plantnot all, will cases, recover in time. But condition that into it goes “shock.” In many, but conditions are unlike so the plant’s existing Transplant shock happens when the new topossible avoid transplant shock. to soil that use try in close as is composition as plant’s existing If the same pot. soil available, isn’t fillwith it partway (ideally) samesoilthe in the bigger in diameter than the existing and pot, When repotting, that apot choose inches 2-4 is to allow the to roots continue to grow. means they will abigger need and pot more soil you will eventually have to repot them, which If your plants grow the way they’re to, expected Properly Plants Repot

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT Page 46 Page HOUSEPLANT CARE 101 more comfortable. But if you have the space, ultimately your entire plant parent journey, this will make your maintenance and process, should opt for plants that are to easy care for: the time to care for the plants rigorously, you even more important YOU. is If you don’t have important your as As plant what’s choice is, (they are addictive!). pretty jungle even bigger and purchase more plants decisions when you decide to grow your indoor inform your plant care choices and help guide Knowing what your plant will needs help versa. a Peace Lily thrive could kill and aPothos, vice to maintained be in what the same way; makes care” means to your plant. Not all plants need getting care good to is understand what “good way to make best The sure your plants are YourKnow Yourself Know Plants, that couldor infect pests your plants. the plant sitters plants do not have any diseases conditions in their and home, that temporary to ensuretry that your plants will have similar them in the care of acapable plant parent, but find anyone visit to your home, canyou leave temperature and sunlight If you levels. can’t home to avoid disturbing their humidity, Ideally, leave the plants where they are in your trays. pebble maintenance, such turning as them or refilling waterelse the plants and do any other regular cared for when you’re away to is have someone So comeSo and grow alittle joy! your here is space, for you. Leafy decor, want or just to introduce alittle life into for, aunique addition to your home or office Whether you’re looking for anew friend to care Blvd. Creek Stevens 2960 Palo Hamilton Alto at 482 Ave and at San Jose love to meet you in one of our locations; two in If you’re in the San Francisco Bay area, we would ease. with packed by plant to handle experts shipping local shipping center, where they’re carefully planters all over the continental from USA our We ship plants our and lush gorgeous Leafy and style. has something to add to room, budget every collection of designer planters and accessories are grown organically, and our carefully curated ofOur healthy, wide selection thriving plants journey. jungle, would love Leafy of to your part be If you’re ready or expand to start your indoor health. mental valuable additions to your home, decor, and Houseplants are genuinely impactful and Well Done! plants with more specific maintenance needs. conditions, time and interest, free feel to go for

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101 HOUSEPLANT CARE HOUSEPLANT