Why You Should Focus On Improving Common Houseplants

· 6 min read
Why You Should Focus On Improving Common Houseplants

Common Houseplants For Warm Climates

Many plants that thrive in warmer climates can be grown indoors. Indoors, several palms thrive, including the robustly tolerant parlour and the elegant paradise palm.

Pothos and certain types (such as the variegated Crotons) are easy to cultivate and have attractive foliage. Orchids require bright lighting and constant moisture, but allow the soil to dry little between irrigations.

Aroids

The aroid family is vast and includes many of the most loved houseplants of the present. They are monocotyledonous and many species are prized for their foliage rather than their flowers. They are available in a variety of shapes sizes, shapes, and growth habits. They also come in a variety of colors. Monstera, philodendrons and anthuriums and colocasia are among the most common of these plants.

These understory plants typically receive the sun's rays in a diffused manner, which is why they thrive in bright indirect light in the home. They can tolerate less lighting conditions, like windows that face north (just make sure that the sun doesn't directly shine on the leaves).

Most of these plants thrive in humid, warm climates. Make sure to use a potting mix that has good drainage and aeration in the container. Aroids are susceptible to overwatering, so be sure to check the top two inches of soil frequently. They can lose their shape, wilt or develop dark brown, mushily-colored spots if overwatered.

Bromeliads

Bromeliad plants have a special feature that lets them to store water in their leaves or a cup at the base of the plant. They also release water when required through trichomes. They are one of the most drought-resistant houseplants. However, they still benefit from misting periodically.

Certain varieties, such as the Guzmania or neoregelia, are cultivated primarily for their vibrant leaves, which could include spots, stripes or bands of color. Some species, like Tillandsia or Vriesea produce spikes that are vibrantly colored flowers.

Some bromeliads are kept in the indoors all year long While others are moved outdoors in the warmer months (where temperatures are above freezing). At the Safari Park, we can see bromeliads thriving in our Hidden Jungle garden. The genus Guzmania includes a wide variety of tropical plants, including the pineapple (Ananas Comosus) which was introduced to Europe in 1493 following Columbus' second voyage to the New World.

Cacti

Many people enjoy bringing the beauty of cacti into their home. These special plants are adapted to desert conditions and a majority have spiny stems.  tall house plants  of them produce flowers and fruit. The spines have a purpose they are able to stop herbivores from eating the fruits and leaves.

Cacti, like other desert-adapted species, can store water in the roots and stems of their plants for periods of drought. They can also store carbon dioxide in their stomata at the time of the day and release it when photosynthesis happens.

Certain cacti, like the prickly pear (Opuntia) and the cholla, are used as living fences in Central and South America. Certain cacti, like Lophophora Williamsii (cactus Peyote), are used for their hallucinogenic effects.

Ferns

Ferns are among the most common indoor plants, despite the absence of flowers and fruit. Despite their absence of fruit and flowers, they are easy to grow. The most important factor to success is an environment that replicates the forest floor. It should be abundant in organic matter, but also include perlite or coarse gravel, for proper drainage.

A fern needs to be misted frequently based on its needs. They love the humidity of living spaces and family rooms, however when you notice the fronds turning brown or dropping leaves, this could be an indication of low humidity.

To prevent water logging or root rot, the soil should be evenly moist but not soaking wet. Simply stick your finger into the soil to test for moisture. It should feel moist to the touch, but not wet. Avoid overwatering as this can cause a yellowing of the fronds. Keep it away from radiators and direct sunlight, as these can dry the plant out too quickly.

Begonias

If you're displaying them in a decorative pot, on a macrame hanging container or in a garden, begonias provide vibrant color to indoor spaces. They thrive when given an indirect, bright light source but require plenty of humidity.

Fibrous-rooted begonias, which are typically classified as bedding plants, are low-maintenance and easy to grow. The 'Dragon Wing' series is the most well-known and has blooms in scarlet, pink and yellow, all on dark-bronze to green foliage. For a compact version, consider the 'Babywing' series that grows from 12 to 15 inches tall.

Polka dot begonias are usually sold as taller than 4 feet floor plants, and they have beautiful leaves with polka-dot patterns on both sides. They need regular watering, and a monthly application of liquid fertilizer. Be sure to check the moisture levels of the soil frequently because they are susceptible to wilt when the soil is too dried out. The begonias aren't fussy about the kind of soil they prefer, but they will benefit from a lightweight, fast-draining mixture like African violet potting soil or one specifically designed for house plants.

Palms

Palms bring a tropical vibe to the home, and they are often used in indoor gardens. They are easy to care for and can be a focal point in any room. They are durable, but they can be destroyed by cold temperatures. They should be kept in a garage during winter or protected inside the house.



Palm leaves are also known as pinnate or palmate, and they are generally V-shaped in cross section. The leaflets are joined or overlapped for a portion or all of their length and are attached along a costa that is an extension of the petiole into leaf blade.

Many species of palms are harvested for their fruits and timber. Palms are used as shade trees in warmer climates as well as indoor plants to provide an exotic feel. For instance, the peach palm (Brassica pendula) is grown for its edible fruit as well as an ornamental crop for coffee, whereas the tagua, also known as ivory palm (Phytelephas aequatorialis) is used to produce Rattan and vegetable ivory.

Schefflera

Scheffleras are also known as umbrella plants or octopus plant. They are among the most popular types of houseplants. They are easy to grow and don't require much or any kind of coddling.

While they can thrive in light conditions, scheffleras do best with bright indirect light. Overexposure to direct sun can burn the leaves. Insufficient light can make the plant leggy and floppy.

Regular watering is important, but do not overwater. Overwatering can cause root rot. Use a container that is just a little larger than the original pot when repotting. An oversize pot will result in soil remaining moist for a long time.

Keep on the lookout for pests such as aphids, scale insects and spider mites. If you spot pests remove them by pinching them or treat the plants with a natural insecticide such as neem oil. If the leaves start to lose their color, it's most likely due to a lack of moisture or the result of a temperature shock.

Polyscias

Polyscias literally translates to 'lots of shade', which fits the plant perfectly that was bred from subtropical islands in the Pacific. It is a stunning plant with a twisting stem and beautiful leaves. It's a wonderful plant for a home that can create a peaceful atmosphere. The leaves are used for their medicinal properties which include diuretic, antitoxin and to treat fever, colds, and coughs.  potted house plants  have anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties.  best houseplants  have also found that they contain eight novel saponins derived from oleanolic acid (polysciosides) and three known ones (polyacetylenes).

Place your Polyscias in a sunny spot that does not reflect direct sunlight onto the leaves, as this may cause them to burn. Water the soil as it is dry, but do not overwater. This could cause root rot and even leaf dropping. Fertilise your houseplants with an item that says "feed" every four waterings in the summer. Reduce feeding to six waterings during winter and in the autumn.

Philodendrons

Philodendrons are among the easiest houseplants to grow and are a popular choice for new or beginner gardeners. The classic trailing philodendron hederaceum5 is quick-growing and tolerant of different lighting conditions, flourishing in hanging baskets or climbing up a trellis outdoors in frost-free zones and happily spreading its heart-shaped leaves over the window of a bedroom or desk sill inside.

For a striking room statement look at the cultivar 'Congo Rojo with elliptical leaves in a dark shade of brown purple. The unique color of the plant highlights its sculptural shape and is ideal for modern spaces with sleek furnishings or those decorated with black. Avoid overwatering philodendrons, and place them in a sunny area with indirect sunlight. Overwatering can result in the edges of the leaves to yellow and cause slowing down growth. Use diluted, lukewarm water to feed the plant instead of directly putting it into the soil. Directly watering into the soil could shock the philodendron and cause an increase in health.