Reader Questions Answered
Fertilizer, Philodendrons, Putting Houseplants Outdoors and More
Apr 19, 2009
Q: Are potash and potassium the same thing?
A: Yes. Potash the common name for potassium. The name comes from the old way of making potassium carbonate, which involved leaching wood ashes and evaporating the resulting solution, leaving behind a layer called “pot ash.” In addition to agriculture, where it’s prized for adding water retention, nutrients and disease prevention, it’s also used in the making of soap and glass.
Q: My philodendrons are getting huge! Roots are springing up out of the soil! The problem is, I have them in the largest container I can deal with in my home--10 gallon size ceramic pot, weighs around 75lbs with plant and soil. Will my plant die if I don't upsize the container? I'm afraid that is its fate, unless it will be ok and will adjust to the container size
A: It does sound as if your beautiful philo is rootbound. Since a larger pot is out of the question here are a few other solutions. You can divide the plant up into several smaller ones, prune it back and root the cuttings, or you can unpot the, prune back any side roots and shoots, and then repot in the same container with fresh soil. This is the perfect time of year to do so as well!
Q: Chemical pest control or natural pest control, which is better?
A: When it comes to indoor gardening, organic or natural pest control is better because it tends to be safer for pets and children. My article on insect control has some tips and tricks. A great homemade pesticide can be made by filling a spray bottle with water and adding a tablespoon of dish soap and a teaspoon of vegetable oil. Shake well, then spray. For a homemade fungicide, replace the soap and oil with a tablespoon of baking soda and teaspoon of rubbing alcohol.
Q: When is it safe to bring houseplants outdoors, meaning the low temperature? I live in Cary, NC and in April the temperatures are fluctuating alot.
A: A good general rule of thumb is to wait until the last frost has passed in your area, which is generally anytime from mid April to late May depending on your zone. To get the exact last frost date for your area, check with your local County Extension office.
Q: I have a sulfur heart persian ivy and am in Florence, CO. Would like to know how to plant this now?
A: This type of ivy is generally used in beds as a groundcover and does well in sun or light shade.
Q: I bought a Gerbera Daisy from a local nursery about a month ago to have as an indoor houseplant. The leaves look droopy and now that the original blooms drooped and died, I cut them off because there were new ones emerging. Now the new buds at the base of the plant & the base of all the stems/leaves are engulfed in this white fuzz. There is also white powdery looking fuzz on top of most of the soil. The whole plant is droopy and dying. Is there anything I can do to save it?
A: Unfortunately, despite their popularity, Gerbera Daisies do not make good houseplants. They are very thirsty plants and highly vulnerable to mildew (which is what seems to be ailing your plant.) They do best outdoors in full sun.
That's all for now. If you have a houseplant question, leave a comment or email me and I'll be glad to help.
 |
