Spring Houseplant Care Checklist

Growing Joy with Plants is the top Home & Garden podcast on iTunes about houseplants, gardening and nature inspired wellness. Plant killer turned Happy Plant Lady (me) Maria Failla , interviews experts of how to successfully care for plants and cultivate joy and calm through doing so.?

Each week this newsletter will share nature inspired insights, tips and actionable steps drawn from the conversations.?

Still a plant killer? No worries! We’ve all? been there - all plant killers, plant enthusiasts and plant impartial are welcome. All you need to start is your curiosity. I’ve got your back for the rest.

Here’s why creating a checklist for your Spring Houseplant Care will help you grow joy, cultivate calm, and weed anxiety...

Weed out anxiety by reveling in spring houseplant care.?

If you’ve ever lost yourself in a few hours of spring cleaning, you’ll know the euphoria that comes with sucking up the dust bunnies that have been growing under your couch or scrubbing your windows clean.?

Did you know that you could tap into that euphoric state with your houseplants??

Like our homes, houseplants accumulate dust, need a refresh, and frankly...a little love and TLC after a long, dry winter. This week, I break down everything you need to know about what’s happening to your plants as we move out of winter and into spring.?

Yes, I give you a practical checklist of duties to cross off to feel accomplished, but more importantly, I let you know what is physically happening to the sun, the air, and the watering needs of your plants so you can empower yourself to care for your plants (and yourself) confidently this spring.

Daylight Changes ???

When daylight increases, so do your plants' needs! With more sunlight comes an increase in photosynthesis, leading to faster growth and greater water requirements. To help your plants thrive, you should:

• Fine-tune your watering schedule ??: Every plant species has unique water needs. Keep a watchful eye on them, and water only when the soil feels dry. This helps prevent over-watering and gives you a chance to admire their progress.
• Sparkling windows ??: Dust and grime can hinder sunlight from reaching your plants. Make a habit of cleaning your windows from the inside to ensure your plants bask in the maximum light possible!
• Sunburn alert ??: As the sun's intensity rises in spring, be careful not to place your plants too close to windows. Excessive sunlight could cause sunburn on sensitive plants.

Managing Spring Temperatures ????

As temperatures climb, it's important to shield your plants from sudden changes. Keep these friendly tips in mind:

• AC awareness ??: Cold air from your air conditioner might harm your plants. Pay attention to their proximity to air vents and adjust their location if needed.
• Weather watch ?: Spring weather can be unpredictable. Keep an eye on the temperature and make sure your plants enjoy a cozy environment tailored to their specific needs.
• Window wonders ??: Fresh air is good for you and your plants. Open your windows on beautiful days to increase humidity and help your plants flourish.

Houseplant Spring Cleaning ???

It's normal for plants to develop yellow or brown leaves during winter dormancy. As spring arrives, seize the opportunity to give your plant collection a thorough check-up:

• Snip away brown or yellow leaves ??: Once the plant reabsorbs the green chlorophyll, these leaves are no longer needed. Prune them to help your plants start fresh.
• Prune leggy plants ??: If a plant has grown tall and spindly, give it a trim to encourage new growth and a fuller, healthier appearance!
• Wipe those leaves clean ??: Dust tends to settle on plant leaves. Use a microfiber cloth or give your plants a gentle shower to remove dust and boost their ability to photosynthesize.

Revitalize Your Plant's Soil ???

In nature, plants have access to a never-ending supply of nutrients. Houseplants, however, rely on fresh soil to obtain essential nutrients. Watch for these signs that it's time to rejuvenate your plant's soil:

1. Roots on the run ??: If roots are poking out of the pot's bottom, they're seeking more nutrients and space. Time for a change!
2. A bursting plant ??: If your plant seems to be pushed out of its container due to excessive root growth, it needs repotting.
3. Quick-draining water ??: If water drains rapidly through the pot, try soaking or bottom watering your plant to remedy hydrophobic soil.
4. Potbound roots ??: If roots grow in the shape of the pot, gently remove old soil and repot the plant in a slightly larger container with fresh potting mix.

Fertilizing Finesse for Spring ???

Although fertilizing plants in spring and summer is generally recommended, remember that growing plants need nutrients. If your plant is growing during winter, don't hesitate to fertilize it. Here are some tips for effective fertilization:

• Liquid houseplant fertilizer ??: Using a liquid houseplant fertilizer like Espoma is a simple way to nourish your plants. Mix it with water and water your plants as usual.
• Dilute outdoor plant fertilizers ??: When using fertilizers meant for outdoor plants, dilute them by half. Houseplants are more sensitive and need a lower concentration of nutrients.
• Keep an eye on growth ??: Monitor your plants' growth patterns and adjust the fertilization schedule as needed. Some plants may need more frequent feeding, while others may require less.

Pros and Cons of Moving Plants Outside in the Spring ??

If you're thinking about moving your plants outside, here are some points to think about before taking the plunge:

• Wait for warmer nights ???: Wait for cozy nights above 65 degrees Fahrenheit to move your plants outside, avoiding shock from low temperatures.
• Harden off your plants if needed ??:? Help indoor plants adjust by gently hardening them off. Start in shade, then introduce more sunlight if needed. Houseplants love shade, but some, like fiddle leaf figs or citrus trees, desire more sun.
• Keep pests at bay before coming back indoors ??: Tackle pests before returning plants inside. Spray with horticultural or insecticidal soap, and quarantine for two weeks to protect your indoor plants.

Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to lovingly assess your plant collection. Bid farewell to plants that no longer spark joy, and make room for new, exciting additions. Get inspired and start planning for upcoming houseplant adventures! ????

Were you already aware of the entire checklist? Did you learn something new?

What activities will you be participating in this weekend to set your plants and yourself up for success?

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