How to Grow Tropical Flowers

Growing tropical flowers in your home is easier than you may think. Although growing requirements do vary from species to species, there are some basic guidelines to get you started that will meet the needs of most tropical plants. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Plant Pots
• Humidity Trays
• Fertilizer
• Water

Instructions

1. Choose a container that will complement the size and appearance of your chosen tropical plant. Plastic is preferable to terra-cotta for tropical plants because it retains moisture better.

2. Maintain a humidity level between 60 and 80 percent. You can elevate the humidity level by using humidity trays filled with pebbles and water. Check the trays often, and keep adequate amounts of fresh water in the tray.

3. Maintain temperatures of 50 to 65 degrees at night and 70 to 80 during the day.

4. Locate your tropical plants in a bright filtered light. Plants that grow in the tropics generally receive high light, but generally do not grow in direct light. East windows that receive light for several hours or western and southern windows that receive filtered light are ideal.

5. Water often to maintain moist soil, but do not allow plants to sit in soggy soil. These plants like plenty of fresh water, but do not like to keep their roots covered in water for long periods.

6. Provide a potting medium in a pot with adequate drainage. Layering broken shards of pottery or pebbles to the bottom of the pot will increase drainage.

7. Fertilize with a water soluble fertilizer mixed to 1/2 strength at 10 to 14 day intervals during growing the growing season and less frequently during the winter.

8. Provide adequate air circulation. The use of a small fan to circulate air will provide fresh air to your plants.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient. They will grow with time.

• Don't care too much or too little for the plants. Everything in moderation!