Water, lighting keys to plant's health

While we've spilled quite a bit of ink on the benefits of houseplants, from their air-purifying power to the wonders they can do for your mental health, something we haven't touched on quite as often is how to ensure your plants live a long and healthy life.

To prevent the unintentional overwatering of yet another fiddle leaf fig tree, we asked Greg Salmeri, co-founder of Los Angeles based Rolling Greens Nursery, all about proper houseplant care. From how to select the right plant given your home's lighting to how to tell if your plant is getting enough water, we're covering all the basics. Trust us, after reading through this Q-and-A, you'll be able to walk into your local nursery with confidence.

Ahead, Salmeri weighs in on the best houseplants and shares his foolproof watering hack. If you're a self-professed "black thumb," you're going to want to keep reading.

How do I know which plants will thrive in my home's lighting?

"Definitely consider your home's lighting (and where you plan to put your plant) before deciding which type of plant to invest in. North and west corners tend to get more indirect light, while south and east corners usually receive direct light.

"For spaces with bright light, the fiddle leaf fig, weeping fig, and rubber tree really thrive. If the area receives indirect light, try an elephant's ear, kentia palm, or money tree. And if it's a low-light spot, a Madagascar dragon tree (Dracaena), snake plant, Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema), or pothos plant is the way to go."

How do I determine the right size plant for my home? (I love greenery, but I want to avoid a Jumanji situation)

"You should look at the mature height and width of the plant and consider that a plant will only grow as big as the container it is in. Just because an immature plant is small and upright does not mean that it won't spread out later in its life. Trailing plants will continue to trail and get longer.

How often should I be watering my houseplants?

"Watering your plant just the right amount is like feeding a pet or a new baby -- it's so hard to tell exactly how much they need. But like pets and babies, if you're patient and pay attention, they will often let you know when they are getting too much (or not enough).

"When you go to water your plant, soak it thoroughly, and then wait until the soil is dry to the touch to water again. Feel the soil with your finger (the best moisture meter around) at least three times a week to familiarize yourself with wet versus dry soil. Sticking your finger about two inches below the soil surface suffices.

"Another technique is to lift the container to see if it feels heavy (if it does, it probably doesn't need water right now) or light (probably needs water). Be extra careful with containers that do not drain."

What's a common houseplant care mistake you wish people would stop making?

"The biggest faux pas we see customers make is the general tendency to overwater -- see above.

Any other tips to share?

"You don't need to repot a plant right away. They are usually good in their grow pots for up to a year. When roots start to grow up above the soil surface or through the drainage holes, it is an indicator it is time to transplant (and an excuse to shop for a beautiful new vessel to house your plant)."

HomeStyle on 01/13/2018

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