HOW TO CARE FOR

HOUSEPLANTS

Planting Series EarthCare Services

Natalie KingPeriod: 8

Date: 4-23-10EXER 2r1-houseplants

GROWING BASICS

Bright light, but NOT direct sunlight 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit with relative

humidity Spray with water several times a day Keep pot in a tray or damp pebbles

Do not overwater Soil should be a mixture of dirt, peat, sand, and

vermiculite Good drainage Air can circulate to roots

Feed plants with fertilizer

TYPES OF FERTILIZER

Granulated Economical Reapply every few

weeks Slow-release

Relatively expensive Lasts several months Rarely burns plants

Water soluble Takes effect quickly Must be applied on a

regular basis Organic

Slow releasing Very safe for plants Expensive

WATERING TIPS

Use warm water Water before plant wilts Know your plant, and water from above

or below as necessary Soil should be thoroughly soaked,

without overwatering

FEATURED PLANT-THE ORCHID

Thousands of orchid species

Phalaenopsis is the best indoor orchid

The Pot Should be free-draining Water cannot

accumulate around roots Light

Moderate light Not direct sunlight, but

not dark

Temperature 75 degrees

Fahrenheit during the day

55-60 degrees Fahrenheit at night

Humidity at 50% Water

Depends on plant species

Depends on light