Humidity: The Destroyer Of Household Plants

Photo: Pixabay

Though humidity is rarely found in the house, it is always good to keep an eye out for a plant that is being affected by humidity. If you notice rot, mildew or mold, it is time to get some ventilation in the area or else lose your precious indoor plants.

Contrary to high humidity low humidity could also adversely affect the plants by sapping them of their water content faster than they can replenish it.

Some of the signs of low humidity are brown leaves, wilting, buds dropping, and low humidity which is especially prevalent during the winter months, especially if it is too cold and you use heaters in the house.

If you follow the few ways to regulate the humidity at proper levels you will have a beautiful and healthy indoor collection of plants.

* Do not keep to a schedule to water plants. Check the soil in the pot before adding water. Water when you feel it is necessary not because it is time to water

the plants.

* Use a mixture of soil and fertilizer that will hold water for longer periods. A sandy mixture will allow water to drain out easily.

* For low humidity, install an electric humidifier to raise the humidity level and a dehumidifier if the humidity level is too high.

* Keep plants in a place that is free from a draft. Such a location is bound to dry the plant.

* If you have many small pots of plants or flowers, make a large tray and fill it with marbles or pebbles. This will keep the pot above the water and the evaporating water will rise and wet the plants.

In the end, you will notice by regulating humidity levels you will have healthier plants.

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Household Plants And Pests

Houseplants in a room - Photo: Wikimedia

Household plants are used to add beauty to the indoor environment. The term "household plants" does not mean that the plants have to be in a home, they could be used to decorate a hotel, lobby or an office as well.

A lot of care needs to be taken of these plants and prevent pests from infecting the plants.

Plants are usually infected with pests when they are put outdoors for sunlight or they may come infected with mites, insects or their eggs.

Many pests are easy to get rid of with non-chemical means, however, if you are having a problem with your household plants being attacked by pests you could get an insecticide spray that is quite easy to use and rids the plant of the pests in a couple of days.

It is always better to prevent infection rather than let it happen and then look for a cure. It is always better to inspect plants before you purchase them.

Even after you examine the plants it is possible for you to get a plant with a disease or pest infestation. So when you get a plant to the house or office, keep it isolated for a couple of weeks to observe any infection. This will prevent the pest from infecting the other plants as well.

To prevent pests from infecting your plants it is best to insect them periodically and sprays the plants with fresh clean water regularly. Never use a feather duster to clean the plants; this is a sure way of

transferring insects to the plant. Spray your plants at least once every two months.

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