Things You'll Need:
- Gravel
- Spray Bottles
- Gravel
- Fertilizers
- Houseplants
- Liquid Fertilizers
- Slow-release Fertilizer
-
Step 1
Protect newly purchased plants from cold weather during transport. Even a few degrees' drop in temperature will throw delicate tropicals into shock. If you live in a cold climate, wrap your new plant in a dry cleaner's bag before leaving the nursery. Drive home with the car heater on high.
-
Step 2
Isolate new plants for at least two weeks. The isolation period will provide ample time for any problems, such as insects or disease, to appear. (If this does occur, return the plant for refund or replacement.)
-
Step 3
Place plants in areas free from drafts. Select a location away from opening doors or heater vents.
-
Step 4
Provide the correct light conditions for your new plant. Like people, plants have different requirements. Some prefer bright light, and some demand filtered sun. Do your homework before selecting the perfect site for your new plant.
-
Step 5
Mist new plants daily. The added humidity will prevent leaf drop resulting from the change in environment from greenhouse to dry indoor air.
-
Step 6
Provide additional humidity by making a humidity tray. Fill the saucer under the plant with gravel. This way, when you water, the runoff will collect in the gravel but the plant will not sit in standing water - the most common cause of root rot. The water will evaporate from the gravel and provide additional humidity to the plant.
-
Step 7
Avoid placing plants on top of heat-generating appliances such as televisions or stereos.
