A Complete Guide to Caring for Houseplants at Home for Beginners

Starting to care for houseplants at home can be exciting, but also confusing for beginners. Don't worry, this guide will help you understand the basics of care so your plants thrive and thrive.

1. Choosing the Right Plant

Choose plants that suit your home and lifestyle. As a beginner, start with plants that are easy to care for and hardy. Some popular choices include:

Pothos: A climbing plant that is very tolerant of a wide range of light and watering conditions.

Sansevieria: Very hardy and undemanding, it can even survive in conditions of lack of water.

Monstera: A tropical plant with unique, broad leaves, suitable for homes with adequate indirect light.

Spider Plant: Easy to grow and produces small shoots that can spread.

2. Lighting

Light is one of the most important factors. Each plant has different light requirements.

Direct Light: Direct sunlight hitting the leaves. Plants that prefer direct light, such as cacti and succulents, are usually placed near south-facing windows.

Bright Indirect Light: Light filtered by curtains or from a window that isn't in direct sunlight. This is ideal for most houseplants, such as Monstera and Calathea.

Low Light: An area away from a window or that receives little light. Plants like Snake Plants and Pothos thrive here.

Tip: Rotate your plant every few weeks so all sides receive even light.

3. Watering

Improper watering is often the cause of plant death, whether from too much or too little.

The Importance of Checking Soil Moisture: Don't water based solely on a schedule. Always check the soil moisture by inserting your finger about 2-3 cm into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it's still damp, wait.

How to Water Properly: Water the plant until water comes out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures all the roots get water and excess water doesn't pool in the pot.

When to Water?: Watering is best done in the morning. Avoid watering during the day, as water can evaporate too quickly, or at night, as humidity can encourage mold growth.

4. Planting Media and Pots

A good planting medium should have good drainage and provide adequate nutrients. The pot you use should also have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent root rot.

Planting Media: Use a potting medium specifically for houseplants. You can buy ready-made potting medium at a garden store or make your own from a mixture of roasted rice husks, cocopeat, and compost.

Pot: Choose a pot that is the right size for your plant. A pot that is too large will retain too much water, while a pot that is too small will inhibit root growth.

5. Fertilizing and Pruning

Fertilizing: Plants need additional nutrients, especially during the growing season (usually the rainy season). Use a liquid or granular fertilizer specifically designed for houseplants and follow the dosage instructions on the packaging. Avoid fertilizing newly planted or diseased plants.

Pruning: Regularly prune wilted, dry, or yellowing leaves. This not only keeps the plant tidy but also directs its energy toward new growth.

By following these simple guidelines, you'll become more confident in caring for houseplants. Remember, the key is to observe and learn from your own plants.