Spring Maintenance For Plants
Topdressing and Repotting Plants, Adding Fertilizer and More
Spring is coming and houseplants are starting to awaken from their winter's nap. Here's a guide to getting them ready to take full advantage of the growing season!
Spring is here and houseplants know it! The longer days and warmer temps will awaken them, letting them know the new growing season is here. There are a few simple things you can do to help.
Repot. Are there roots poking out of the drainage holes? That's a sign it's time to repot. Tip them out of their pots and examine the soil. Are there more roots than dirt? Are the roots wound around the soil tightly? This is a sign of a root-bound plant. While some houseplants actually prefer being a little root bound, most appreciate being repotted so they can stretch their roots out. Use a good quality potting mix such as Miracle-Gro or Schultz.
Many nurseries and garden centers offer their own mixes which are also very good. (Avoid the cheap/generic brands as most of them will turn to mud when wet and then harden when dry. Neither is good for plants! Never ever use garden soil from outdoors either as there is a risk of bringing in insects and diseases with it.)You'll also need a pot no more than one size bigger than the one the plant is in now. Make sure it has good drainage.
Remove the plant from it's old pot and shake off as much of the old soil as possible, and if badly root bound, tease the roots apart as much as you can. Place in the new pot, add soil and lightly pat down, then water. When repotting a cactus, use heavy gloves or a ring made of several layers of heavy newspaper to protect yourself from the spines.
Topdressing. For large plants or those that don't show signs of being root bound, simply remove the first few inches of soil around the plant and replace with fresh soil.
Fertilizer. If you've recently repotted using a potting soil such as Miracle-Gro, the plants will be all set for a few months as the soil has plant food in it. For other plants, look for a fertilizer specially formulated for houseplants. Some plants, such as African Violets have formulations specially made just for them.
Spring Cleaning. For large plants or those with large leaves, wipe them down with a soft, slightly damp cloth. For other plants, give them a gentle misting under the tap or in the shower. Plants with fuzzy leaves, such as African Violets, don't like getting wet, so leave them be. If you have any plants such as Pothos or Ivy that tend to grow long vines, don't be afraid to cut them back a few inches or more. This will encourage new growth, and you can stick the cuttings in water to root!
Hopefully this will help you prepare your plants for a season of happy, healthy growth!
