Spring Houseplant Care – Part 2 The Basics

Spring is here!  Last month, we told you this is an excellent time to re-pot any plants that need it. Here are a few other things to keep in mind this spring.

This is one of the best times to fertilize your plants. Did your plants fade in color over the winter? Many fertilizers will help this. The more consistent sunny weather will also help. The best fertilizers to use are mild ones, such as Miracle-Gro. It is possible to over-fertilize, so something like this is your safest option. This type of fertilizer can be used every time you water. If you’re looking for something to really boost the growth, try SuperThrive. This works very well, but is a bit strong, and shouldn’t be used more than once a month. If Miracle-Gro isn’t helping to green up your plants, try a fertilizer that contains Iron, such as Ironite. Again, this is a stronger fertilizer, and shouldn’t be used as often. Be sure to follow instructions carefully with any fertilizer you choose.

Another thing you may notice is bugs in your plants, particularly gnats. Spring and summer is when gnats thrive most. Gnats do not usually harm your plants, but are very irritating. There are many products to help get rid of gnats, but we like to use the good old home remedy of rubbing alcohol mixed with water (50/50). Just spray this on the soil often. As long as you don’t have a severe infestation, this should do the trick.  Gnats are attracted to the moisture in the soil. Let the soil dry out a little more in between watering, if possible.  Mealy bugs and spider mites are also likely to show up at this time. You can use the same home remedy, but these bugs live in the plant. Spray the entire plant thoroughly. Don’t forget underneath the leaves.

Due to the more rapid growth rate and warmer weather, you may need to water a little more often. Be sure to check the soil each time you go to water, to avoid over-watering. We usually need to water more heavily every time the season changes. Eventually the plants should acclimate though, and you may not need to water as often down the road.