How to Care for a Tropical Plant

A hanging zebra plant.

Tropical plants are native to warm, tropical areas. In the northern hemisphere (especially in North America), tropical plants are often kept as houseplants. Popular tropical plants include the peace lily, dieffenbachia and all varieties of dracaena. If you follow a few simple rules, it is easy to care for a tropical plant.

Instructions

1. Keep your tropical plant in a proper-sized container. Pots that are too small can cause the plant to become root-bound, which can affect the plant's health and growth. A pot that is too large can result in root rot. For best results, plant your tropical plant in the same size (diameter) pot as the disposable pot that your plant arrived in from the nursery.

2. Water your tropical plant with rain water. If you prefer not to collect rain water, or you live in an area where it rarely rains, use tap water. Pour the tap water into a pitcher or watering can, and allow it to set out over night so chlorine and other potentially-harmful gases can evaporate.

3. Water only when needed. Over watering is the leading cause of death in houseplants. Water your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. If the surface of the soil feels cool, there is sufficient moisture and the plant does not need to be watered.

4. Keep your tropical plant in an area with 50-to-70 percent relative humidity. Tropical plants are used to humid, tropical conditions. Air conditioners remove humidity from the air. If your home is too dry, place a bowl of water within two feet of your plant.

5. Mist the plant regularly. Use a plant mister every two or three days to keep the plant's leaves hydrated.

References

• List of Tropical Houseplants
• Tropical Plant Info

Resources

• 1001 Houseplant Secrets
• Plant Mister