Plant Care

Find Your Favorite Plant by Variety & Learn How to Care for It!

Pothos

  • Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) are incredibly resilient, which is why they’re such a popular choice for both beginners and experienced plant lovers. Their ability to thrive in a wide range of light conditions—from bright, indirect light to low light—makes them adaptable to many environments..

    Even in low light, they may grow a bit slower and their variegation (the white or yellow markings on the leaves) could become less pronounced, but they can still survive. If you're aiming for the best growth and vibrant color, providing them with bright, indirect light will be ideal.

  • Pothos plants are fairly drought-tolerant, so it's important not to overwater them. Letting the soil dry out between waterings helps prevent root rot, which is one of the most common issues with pothos care.

    Check the soil by sticking your finger about 1–2 inches deep. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it still feels moist, wait a few more days.

    When you water, make sure to water thoroughly so that the excess drains out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures the roots get a good drink.

  • Pothos prefer a light, well-draining soil. A standard houseplant mix works well, but adding a little perlite or orchid bark for extra aeration can be helpful.

    During the growing season (typically spring and summer), you can fertilize your pothos about once a month. In fall and winter, when the plant is generally in a dormant phase, it’s best to reduce fertilizing or stop altogether.

    Occasionally fertilizing and repotting, you’ll encourage steady growth and keep your pothos looking lush and vibrant. Plus, pothos are quite forgiving, so even if you miss a fertilizing session or repot a little later than ideal, they’ll usually bounce back with no issue.

Coffee Plant

  • Coffee plant (Coffea arabica) thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so it's best to keep them in a spot where they get plenty of light but without the harsh direct rays.

    By placing your coffee plant in a warm, bright spot with filtered light, you’ll help it thrive and promote healthy growth. Just keep it out of direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes

  • Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This helps prevent overwatering while ensuring the plant still gets enough moisture. It’s important not to let the soil stay too dry for extended periods, as coffee plants prefer slightly moist conditions.

    The key to watering your coffee plant is to water regularly but allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Proper drainage is essential, and by avoiding waterlogged soil, you’ll help your coffee plant stay healthy and vibrant!

  • Coffee plants prefer soil that retains some moisture but isn't too heavy or compacted. The soil should be rich in organic matter, which provides nutrients to support healthy growth.

    pH Level: Coffee plants thrive in slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 4.9 and 5.6. This is more acidic than typical houseplant soil, so it's important to make sure your mix is suited to this preference.

    By ensuring your coffee plant has access to rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic soil, you’ll set it up for success and promote vibrant leaves. 🌿

Maranta “Prayer Plant”

  • Maranta plants prefer bright, indirect light. They do well in spots where they receive filtered light, such as near an east- or west-facing window, or a window with sheer curtains.

    Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves, causing them to become brown or faded, especially around the edges. It’s important to place them in a spot with lots of natural light but not direct exposure to the sun's rays.

    While Marantas can tolerate lower light conditions, their growth may slow down, and they may not display their vibrant colors as vividly in dimmer environments. It’s best to keep them in bright light for optimal health.

  • Water your Maranta when the top 25% of the soil feels dry. You can check this by sticking your finger into the soil about 1-2 inches deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.

    Use filtered, distilled water, or even rainwater for the best results. If you do use tap water, consider letting it sit out for 24 hours to allow some of the chemicals to dissipate.

    Adjust watering frequency based on the light conditions, and maintain a slightly higher humidity to keep your plant happy! 🌿

  • Fertilizing is an important part of keeping your Maranta healthy and vibrant.

    Feed your Maranta once a month during the growing season with half-strength, all-purpose fertilizer, and remember to stop feeding in the winter months when the plant is less active. This helps ensure your plant gets the nutrients it needs without overdoing it! 🌿

Calathea

  • Calatheas are tropical plants, so they thrive in bright, indirect light and warm temperatures, so place them in a spot that mimics their natural tropical environment. They’re not fond of direct sunlight or cold drafts, so finding the right balance of light and warmth is key to keeping your Calathea happy and healthy! 🌿

    While Calatheas can survive in lower light conditions, their growth may slow down, and the leaves may lose some of their vibrant colors. Ideally, they should be kept in a well-lit space for the best results.

  • Water your Calathea when the top inch of soil feels dry, keeping the soil evenly moist but never soggy. Using the right type of water and adjusting your watering frequency based on humidity and temperature will help ensure a healthy, thriving plant! 🌱

    High humidity is crucial; mist leaves regularly or use a humidifier.

  • Calatheas don’t like their roots sitting in waterlogged soil. Use a well-draining potting mix that allows for proper water movement. This will help prevent root rot, which is a common issue for Calatheas.

    Adding peat moss or coco coir to your soil mix helps improve moisture retention while still allowing excess water to drain away. These organic materials create a slightly acidic environment, which is ideal for Calatheas.

Sansevieria “Snake Plant”

  • Sansevieria (Snake Plant) is incredibly versatile when it comes to light, which makes it a great choice for different indoor environments.

    This beautiful strong plant can tolerate low light, making it perfect for rooms that don't receive much natural sunlight.

    While Sansevieria can handle lower light, it thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing it near a window with sheer curtains or in a well-lit room with filtered light will encourage optimal growth and help it maintain its bold, upright structure.

    Sansevieria can handle some direct sunlight, but it’s best to avoid harsh, direct sun, especially in very hot climates. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause brown spots or fading of the colors. If your plant is exposed to direct sunlight, try to limit it to morning or evening light rather than the harsh midday sun.

  • Sansevieria is a low-maintenance plant that thrives on minimal watering.

    One of the most important things to remember with Sansevieria is that they are drought-tolerant plants. Overwatering is a common mistake, as they prefer to dry out between waterings. Check the soil by sticking your finger into the top 2 inches. If it feels dry, it's time to water.

  • Sansevieria doesn’t need frequent fertilizing. You can feed them once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during the winter when the plant is resting.

    Use a well-draining potting mix for Sansevieria. A cactus or succulent mix works well because it allows excess water to drain quickly, preventing the roots from sitting in moisture for too long.

Peperomia

  • Peperomia plants do best when placed in a spot with bright, indirect light. A window with sheer curtains or a spot a few feet away from a bright window works well. Avoid placing your Peperomia in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its delicate leaves.

    Peperomias are adaptable and can tolerate lower light conditions, but they won’t grow as quickly or produce their best foliage. The plant may become leggy, and its leaves might lose some of their vibrancy.

    If your Peperomia isn't getting enough light, the leaves may start to yellow, and the plant might stop growing. If you notice this, consider moving it to a brighter spot.

  • Like many houseplants, Peperomias prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. Stick your finger into the top inch of soil, and when it feels dry, it’s time to water.

    Avoid Overwatering: Peperomias are susceptible to root rot if left in waterlogged soil, so make sure the pot has good drainage and never let the plant sit in standing water.

    Peperomias appreciate moderate to high humidity, though they can adapt to the average indoor humidity level. If you live in a dry area, consider increasing humidity with a humidifier or misting the leaves occasionally.

  • Use a well-draining potting mix, like one made for succulents or cacti, as Peperomias don’t like to sit in overly moist soil. A mix that includes some perlite or sand for aeration will work well.

    Fertilize During the Growing Season. You can feed your Peperomia once a month during the spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant months (fall and winter).

Dracaena

  • Dracaenas thrive best in bright, indirect light. While they can tolerate lower light conditions, their growth may slow down and the leaves might lose some of their vibrancy. Direct sunlight can be too harsh for them, often leading to sunburned or scorched leaves—so it's best to keep them out of direct sun.

    If you're unsure about the light in your space, a good rule of thumb is to place your Dracaena near a window with sheer curtains or in a room where it gets plenty of natural light but no direct rays. That way, your plant can stay happy and healthy!

  • Dracaenas prefer to dry out a little between waterings, so err on the side of underwatering rather than overwatering. Keeping the soil well-drained is just as important, and they’ll thrive with a consistent, moderate watering schedule.

    Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This ensures the plant isn’t sitting in waterlogged soil, but also that it’s not allowed to dry out completely.

  • Dracaenas, like many houseplants, prefer a well-draining potting mix to ensure that their roots stay healthy and don't sit in stagnant water, which can lead to root rot.

    A general-purpose houseplant potting mix usually works well, as long as it drains adequately. You can also improve drainage by mixing in perlite, sand, or coconut coir to lighten the texture.

    When repotting your Dracaena, choose a pot with good drainage holes at the bottom. This ensures that excess water can escape and prevents water from pooling at the bottom of the pot.

Philodendron

  • For a healthy philodendron, provide bright, indirect sunlight. This mimics their natural habitat where they receive filtered light.

    Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves and cause brown or yellow patches. Place the plant a few feet away from a sunny window or use a sheer curtain.

    While the plant can survive in low light, it won't thrive. Growth will slow, and the plant may become "leggy" as it stretches for more light.

    Signs of improper light: Too much light leads to burnt leaves, while too little light results in slow, leggy growth. An east-facing window is a great spot, as it provides gentle morning sun.

  • For a healthy philodendron, proper watering is crucial, as they are susceptible to both overwatering and underwatering. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

    Here's a breakdown of the key water requirements:

    Check the soil first: The most important rule is to water only when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. You can check this by sticking your finger into the soil. Don't water on a fixed schedule, as the frequency will depend on factors like light, humidity, and the time of year.

    Water thoroughly: When you do water, do so generously until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system gets a good drink. Always empty any excess water from the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in soggy soil, which can lead to root rot.

    Signs of overwatering: This is the most common mistake with philodendrons. Signs include yellowing leaves, especially the younger ones, and the plant looking droopy or limp even though the soil is wet. The soil may also develop a foul smell.

    Signs of underwatering: If a philodendron is thirsty, its leaves will often start to droop or wilt, and the soil will be completely dry. The leaves may also become crispy or turn brown at the tips.

    Adjust for the season: Philodendrons have a growth spurt in the spring and summer and require more frequent watering during these months. Their growth slows down in the fall and winter, so you should reduce the watering frequency accordingly.

  • For a healthy philodendron, the soil is a critical factor. The best soil will be airy, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. This is key to preventing root rot while providing the nutrients they need to thrive.

    Excellent drainage is the most important requirement, as philodendrons hate having "wet feet." The soil should also be able to retain some moisture to keep roots hydrated. It needs to be rich in nutrients and have a slightly acidic pH, typically ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.

    Many people create their own mix using a base of potting soil. Key additions like perlite, pumice, or orchid bark are essential to create air pockets and improve drainage. Ingredients like coco coir or sphagnum moss help retain moisture while providing nutrients. A simple but effective mix can be a ratio of one part each of potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite.

    If you prefer a pre-made solution, look for commercial "Aroid mixes" designed for plants like philodendrons and monstera.

Hoya

  • For a healthy Hoya plant, the most important light requirement is bright, indirect sunlight. This mimics their natural environment as tropical epiphytes, where they grow on other plants and receive dappled light through a dense canopy.

    Ideal Light Conditions: Hoyas thrive with several hours of bright, indirect light per day. Placing them a few feet away from a south or west-facing window, or directly in an east-facing window, is often perfect. This type of light promotes vigorous growth and is essential for them to produce their beautiful, star-shaped flowers.

    Avoid Direct Sun: While some Hoya species can be acclimated to tolerate more direct sunlight, especially morning sun, most varieties will get sunburned by harsh, direct afternoon sun. The leaves may turn a yellow, bleached, or even crispy color.

    "Sun-Stressing" vs. Sunburn: Some Hoya varieties, particularly those with a waxy or succulent-like texture, will develop beautiful reddish or pinkish coloration when exposed to high light. This is called "sun-stressing" and is generally not harmful, though it's a sign they are receiving a lot of light. It's different from a pale, bleached-out look, which indicates sunburn.

    Low Light is Not Ideal: Hoyas are often mistakenly thought of as low-light plants. While they can survive in low light, their growth will be slow, their leaves may lose their vibrant color, and they are very unlikely to bloom. If your plant is "leggy" (long stems with few leaves), it's a sign it needs more light.

    Supplementing with Grow Lights: If you don't have enough natural light, Hoyas respond very well to full-spectrum grow lights. Many enthusiasts use these to ensure their plants get the consistent light needed to grow and flower, especially during shorter winter days.

  • For a healthy Hoya plant, proper watering is about balancing their succulent-like nature with their tropical origins. They are highly susceptible to overwatering, so a "less is more" approach is key.

    Here are the essential watering requirements for a healthy Hoya:

    Check the soil first: The most important rule is to water only when the top 1-2 inches of soil are completely dry. Because their leaves can store water, they are more forgiving of being a little too dry than a little too wet. You can check the soil with your finger or by using a wooden skewer.

    Water thoroughly: When it's time to water, give the plant a deep, thorough soak. Water until you see it draining from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system gets a drink. Always empty any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot.

    Adjust for the season: During the spring and summer (their active growing season), you will need to water more frequently. In the fall and winter, when the plant's growth slows, reduce the watering frequency significantly. It's not uncommon for a Hoya to go for a month or more without water during its dormant period.

    Signs of overwatering: This is the most common cause of problems for Hoyas. Signs include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or the leaves becoming soft and limp.

    Signs of underwatering: While they are drought-tolerant, prolonged underwatering can still cause issues. Signs include wrinkled or shriveled leaves and a general limp or droopy appearance. The leaves may feel soft or flexible, rather than firm.

    In general, it is always better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering, as Hoyas can recover from a period of dryness but root rot from overwatering is often irreversible.

  • For a healthy Hoya plant, the soil is a critical factor. As epiphytes in their native habitat, their roots are adapted to an airy, fast-draining environment. The ideal soil must be airy, well-draining, and chunky.

    This is because Hoyas are extremely prone to root rot if their roots sit in soggy soil. A chunky mix creates air pockets that allow the roots to breathe, which is essential for their health. The soil should also have minimal moisture retention and a slightly acidic pH, typically between 5.5 and 6.5. Avoid using standard, dense potting mixes, as they will likely suffocate the roots.

    Many people create their own mix using a small amount of potting soil or coco coir as a base. Essential additions include orchid bark and perlite for drainage and aeration. A simple, widely-used ratio is equal parts potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite. Alternatively, pre-made "Aroid mixes" or "Orchid mixes" can be a good starting point.

Alocasia

  • For a healthy Alocasia plant, the primary light requirement is bright, indirect sunlight. This mimics their natural environment as understory plants in tropical rainforests, where they receive filtered light through a dense canopy.

    Bright, Indirect Light is Ideal: Alocasia plants need a significant amount of light to thrive and maintain their striking foliage. Placing them near a south-facing window with a sheer curtain to diffuse the light, or a few feet away from an unobstructed east or west-facing window, is often a perfect setup.

    Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct, harsh sun, especially the hot afternoon sun, can easily scorch an Alocasia's delicate leaves. This can lead to brown or yellow burnt patches and can be irreversible.

    Low Light Is Not Optimal: While Alocasias can tolerate lower light, it is not ideal. In low light conditions, their growth will slow down dramatically, and they may not produce new leaves. The plant may also become "leggy," with long stems and smaller leaves as it stretches to find more light.

    Signs of Improper Light:

    Too much light: Leaves turning yellow, crispy, or developing brown, burnt spots. The vibrant colors and patterns may also fade.

    Too little light: Slowed growth, smaller new leaves, and the plant becoming leggy. The leaves may also droop or become limp.

  • For a healthy Alocasia, the key to watering is to keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. They are highly sensitive to both overwatering and underwatering, so finding the right balance is crucial.

    The most important rule is to water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry to the touch. When you do water, do so until water begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Always empty any excess water from the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in stagnant water, which can lead to root rot.

    Alocasias need more frequent watering in the spring and summer during their active growth. In the fall and winter, their growth slows, so reduce watering significantly. Drooping or yellowing leaves can signal overwatering, while wilted leaves with crispy edges are a sign of underwatering. As tropical plants, Alocasias also require high humidity, so a humidifier or a pebble tray is more effective than misting.

  • For a healthy Alocasia plant, the soil is a critical component. The ideal soil will be light, airy, and well-draining, while still retaining some moisture. This is essential to prevent root rot and mimic its native rainforest floor environment.

    The most crucial factor is excellent drainage; the mix must allow excess water to flow out quickly. A good soil also has plenty of aeration to let roots "breathe," retains some moisture to keep roots hydrated, and is rich in organic matter to support their fast growth. Alocasias also prefer a slightly acidic pH, typically between 5.5 and 6.5.

    Because standard potting mix is often too dense, many growers create their own custom blend. Essential components include a potting soil base with perlite or orchid bark for drainage and aeration, and coco coir or sphagnum moss for moisture and nutrients. A simple and effective ratio is one part each of potting soil, perlite, and coco coir or orchid bark. Alternatively, you can find commercial "Aroid mixes" designed for plants like Alocasia.

Begonia

  • For a healthy Begonia, the primary light requirement is bright, indirect sunlight. This mimics their natural environment as understory plants, where they receive filtered light.

    Bright, indirect light promotes healthy, vigorous growth and is essential for most Begonias to produce flowers. An east-facing window is an excellent choice as it provides gentle morning sun. A south or west-facing window works if the light is diffused by a sheer curtain.

    Direct sun can easily scorch a Begonia's leaves, leading to brown, crispy patches or a bleached-out appearance. Leaves of some varieties, like Rex Begonias, are particularly sensitive to sunburn.

    While some Begonias can tolerate low-light, it is not ideal for their health. Growth will slow down, and they are unlikely to produce blooms. Stems may also become "leggy," stretching out with fewer leaves.

    Too much light leads to burnt or washed-out leaves. Too little light results in slowed growth, leggy stems, and a lack of blooms. The light needs vary by type; Rex Begonias generally prefer slightly lower light but still need bright, indirect light to maintain their colorful foliage.

  • For a healthy Begonia, the key to watering is a delicate balance. They need to be kept consistently moist but are extremely sensitive to being waterlogged, which can quickly lead to root rot.

    The most important rule is to water only when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Avoid a strict watering schedule, as their needs change with the season, light, and temperature. When watering, do so thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Always empty any excess water from the saucer to prevent the plant from sitting in soggy conditions.

    Avoid getting the leaves wet, as Begonias are susceptible to powdery mildew. Water the soil directly at the base of the plant. Begonias require more water during their active growing season; in the fall and winter, reduce the watering frequency significantly to prevent rot.

    Signs of overwatering include drooping or yellowing leaves and mushy stems. Underwatering causes leaves to wilt and turn brown and crispy at the edges. It is always safer underwater, as a thirsty Begonia is much easier to save than one with root rot.

  • For a healthy Begonia, the soil is a critical factor, as they are very sensitive to improper moisture levels. The best soil will be light, well-draining, and rich in organic matter, with a balance between retaining some moisture and allowing roots to breathe.

    The most important requirement is excellent drainage; the mix must allow excess water to flow out quickly to prevent root rot. While it needs to drain well, the soil should also hold enough moisture to keep the roots hydrated. Begonias are heavy feeders, so the soil should be rich in nutrients and have a slightly acidic pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.

    Because standard potting mix is often too dense, many growers create their own custom blends. An effective DIY mix includes a base of high-quality, peat-based potting mix, with additions like perlite or coarse sand for aeration and drainage. Ingredients like peat moss or compost help retain moisture while providing nutrients. A simple and effective ratio is two parts potting soil, one part perlite, and one part peat moss. You can also find commercial "Begonia mixes" that are formulated to have the right balance of these properties.

Fern

Caladium

Cordatum

  • For a healthy Cordatum plant (Philodendron hederaceum), the primary light requirement is bright, indirect sunlight. This is crucial for its health and is essential for maintaining vibrant foliage and promoting growth.

    Ideal Placement: A few feet back from a south or west-facing window works well, especially if the light is diffused by a sheer curtain. An east-facing window is also an excellent spot as it provides gentle morning sun.

    Avoid Direct Sun: Direct, intense sunlight will easily scorch the leaves, leading to brown, crispy patches.

    Low Light Issues: While the Cordatum can survive in low light, it won't thrive. Its growth will slow significantly, and the stems may become "leggy," with long gaps between leaves as the plant stretches to find more light.

    Signs of Improper Light: Burnt spots on the leaves indicate too much direct sun. Slowed growth and leggy stems are signs of insufficient light.

  • For a healthy Cordatum plant, the key is to avoid overwatering. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again. This prevents the root rot that can easily occur if the soil stays soggy.

    When it's time to water, give the plant a deep, thorough drink until water flows from the drainage holes. Be sure to empty any standing water from the saucer afterward.

    Watering frequency should be reduced in the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows. During the active growing months of spring and summer, it will need more frequent watering.

    Drooping or yellowing leaves and mushy stems are classic signs of overwatering. Conversely, underwatering will cause the leaves to wilt and curl, but a good soak usually revives the plant quickly.

  • For a healthy Cordatum plant, the soil is a key factor. It must be airy, well-draining, and rich in organic matter to mimic its native tropical environment.

    This is crucial for preventing root rot, which occurs when roots sit in dense, soggy soil. A good mix allows excess water to flow out quickly while still retaining enough moisture to keep the plant consistently hydrated.

    Because standard potting mixes are often too heavy, many growers create their own blend. A simple and effective DIY mix can be made with equal parts of high-quality potting soil, perlite for aeration, and orchid bark for drainage. The chunky mix allows roots to breathe and thrive. Alternatively, you can use a commercial "Aroid mix," which is designed to have the ideal balance of these properties.

Monstera Swiss Cheese

  • For a happy and healthy Monstera Swiss Cheese plant (Monstera adansonii), it needs bright, indirect sunlight. This mimics its native environment in the tropical rainforest, where it receives filtered light through the tree canopy.

    Ideal Placement: A few feet back from a south-facing window, or in a spot with an east-facing window, provides the perfect amount of gentle light. You can also use a sheer curtain to diffuse intense sun from a west-facing window.

    Avoid Direct Sun: Direct, harsh sunlight can easily scorch the delicate leaves, leading to brown, crispy patches. The leaves may also look pale or bleached out.

    Low Light Issues: While they can survive in low light, they will not thrive. Insufficient light will lead to slow growth and the plant becoming "leggy," with long stems and fewer, smaller leaves as it stretches to find light.

    Signs of Trouble: Burnt spots or a pale appearance indicate too much sun. Slowed growth and a leggy form are signs of insufficient light.

  • For a healthy Monstera Swiss Cheese plant (Monstera adansonii), the key is to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. This is crucial for preventing root rot, a common issue for this plant.

    Check the soil first: Water when the top 1-2 inches of the soil are completely dry to the touch. The plant's watering needs will change with the seasons and light conditions, so avoid a strict schedule.

    Water thoroughly: When it's time, give the plant a deep, thorough watering until you see it draining from the bottom of the pot. Always empty any excess water from the saucer.

    Signs of overwatering: The most common sign is yellowing leaves, especially the lower ones, and a drooping or limp appearance even though the soil is wet.

    Signs of underwatering: The leaves will start to droop or wilt, and the soil will be bone dry. The plant will usually perk up quickly after a good watering.

    Adjust for the season: Water more frequently during the active growing season (spring and summer) and reduce frequency in fall and winter.

  • For your Monstera Swiss Cheese plant to be happy, the right soil is so important. The perfect soil is airy, well-draining, and rich in nutrients.

    This special combination helps prevent the most common problem: root rot. A good soil will allow extra water to drain away quickly, but still hold onto enough moisture to keep the roots hydrated.

    Since regular potting soil can be too dense, many plant lovers create their own mix. A popular and simple recipe is to blend one part potting soil, one part perlite for great drainage, and one part orchid bark for aeration. This helps keep the roots healthy and happy. If you prefer, a pre-made "Aroid mix" works perfectly too!

Fittonia

  • For your Fittonia, also known as a Nerve Plant, the light needs are very specific. They absolutely love low to medium, indirect sunlight. This is because they grow on the rainforest floor, where they're protected by a dense canopy.

    Think of an east-facing window with gentle morning sun, or a spot a few feet away from a brighter window. The key is to avoid any direct sun! Direct light will quickly burn their delicate leaves, leaving them crispy and brown.

    While they can tolerate low light, they won't thrive in a dark corner. Their growth will slow, and those beautiful, vibrant leaf patterns might start to fade.

  • A happy Fittonia is all about staying consistently hydrated! These plants are dramatic and will let you know immediately if they're thirsty by completely collapsing. Don't worry, they usually perk right back up after a good drink.

    The best way to water is to wait until the top inch of soil feels dry. Then, water thoroughly until you see it draining from the bottom of the pot. Be sure to empty any excess water from the saucer so their roots don't get soggy.

    Since they come from tropical rainforests, Fittonias also love humidity. If your plant's leaves start to get crispy, try placing it near a humidifier or on a pebble tray filled with water to give it a little spa treatment!

  • Fittonia plants need a mix that is well-draining yet able to retain moisture. This balance is key to keeping their roots from getting too soggy, which can lead to root rot.

    The goal is to prevent the plant's "feet" from sitting in water, while still keeping the soil consistently damp, as Fittonias don't like to dry out. A good, light potting mix is perfect.

    You can create a simple blend by mixing a high-quality potting mix with some perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage and aeration. This gives their roots a lovely, airy home. A little bit of peat moss or coco coir also helps the soil hold on to just enough moisture to keep your plant healthy and hydrated.

Geogenanthus

  • Your Geogenanthus plant, with its gorgeous, unique foliage, loves a cozy spot with low to medium, indirect light. Think of it like its natural home on the rainforest floor, where the sun's rays are softly filtered through a dense canopy of trees.

    An east-facing window is a perfect choice, as it provides gentle morning sun. You can also place it in a shady corner of a well-lit room or a few feet away from a brighter window.

    It's important to keep your Geo plant away from direct sunlight, especially the harsh afternoon sun. Too much direct light can easily scorch its leaves, causing them to turn crispy and brown. While it can survive in low light, its beautiful colors may start to fade if it doesn't get enough gentle light.

  • Your Geogenanthus plant loves consistent moisture! Think of its native home in the jungle—it enjoys soil that's always a little damp, but never soaked.

    The best way to water is to check the soil every few days. When the top inch feels just slightly dry, it's time for a drink. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then make sure to empty any excess water from the saucer. This is a key step to prevent root rot.

    These plants are also humidity lovers. If you notice the leaf edges turning crispy, it's a sign the air is too dry. Placing your plant near a humidifier or on a pebble tray is a great way to keep it happy and healthy!

  • Getting the soil right for your Geogenanthus is one of the best ways to keep it thriving! Since these plants are from the rainforest floor, they need a mix that is both rich in organic matter and excellent at draining water. This balanced approach ensures the soil stays consistently moist without ever becoming soggy, which is vital for preventing root rot.

    Regular potting soil is often too heavy. To create the perfect blend, try adding chunky amendments like perlite, pumice, or even orchid bark to a quality potting mix. This makes the soil light and airy, allowing your plant's roots to breathe and stay happy.