Plant Care Guide
Everything you need to cultivate thriving plants with confidence
Light
Understanding light requirements for optimal growth
Water
Proper hydration techniques and schedules
Climate
Temperature and humidity management
Nutrients
Feeding plants for healthy development
Care
Maintenance and problem-solving tips
Light Requirements
Full Sun
6+ hours of direct sunlight daily. Ideal for south-facing windows and outdoor sunny locations.
Lantana, Indian Hawthorne, Muhly Grass
Bright Indirect
Bright room without direct sun rays. Near east or west windows, 3-5 feet from south-facing windows.
Confederate Jasmine, Blue Daze
Low to Medium
Tolerates dimmer conditions. North-facing windows or corners with ambient light.
Mondo Grass, Dwarf Mondo Grass, Podocarpus
Watering Guidelines
The Finger Test
Insert your finger 1-2 inches into the soil. If dry, water thoroughly. If moist, wait. This simple method prevents both over and under-watering.
Watering Technique
Water until it drains from the bottom. Ensure the entire root system receives moisture, then empty the saucer to prevent root rot.
Key principle: Less is more. Overwatering causes more plant deaths than underwatering. When in doubt, wait another day.
High
Every 2-3 days during active growth
Moderate
Every 4-7 days, adjust seasonally
Low
Every 10-14 days, allow soil to dry
Climate Control
Temperature
Most plants thrive between 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Avoid heating/AC vents
- Keep from drafts and hot windows
- Maintain consistency
- Tolerate 55-80°F range
Humidity
Optimal range 40-60% humidity
- Group plants together
- Use pebble trays with water
- Install room humidifier
- Mist leaves in morning
Fertilizing
Think of fertilizer as vitamins—essential nutrients for healthy growth.
When to Feed
- Spring-Summer: Every 2-4 weeks
- Fall-Winter: Monthly or pause
- New plants: Wait 4-6 weeks
How to Apply
- Use balanced liquid fertilizer
- Dilute to half strength
- Water first, then fertilize
- Never apply to dry soil
Important: Over-fertilizing causes brown tips and salt buildup. Less is always more.
Troubleshooting
Yellow Leaves
Overwatering / Nutrients
Check soil moisture. If soggy, allow to dry. If dry, increase watering. Remove affected leaves and consider fertilizing during growth season.
Brown Tips
Low Humidity / Salts
Increase humidity, use filtered water, reduce fertilizer. Trim brown tips with clean scissors at an angle.
Drooping
Water Issues
Check soil immediately. Water if dry, allow to dry if wet. Ensure proper drainage. May need repotting if root-bound.
Pests
Insects / Mites
Isolate plant immediately. Spray with water, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. For fungus gnats, reduce watering frequency.
Leggy Growth
Insufficient Light
Move to brighter location. Rotate weekly for even growth. Prune leggy stems to encourage bushier form.
Seasonal Care
Spring
- Resume fertilizing
- Repot if needed
- Increase watering
- Brighter locations
Summer
- Water frequently
- Shade from intense sun
- Boost humidity
- Monitor pests
Fall
- Reduce fertilizer
- Decrease watering
- Bring plants in
- Check for pests
Winter
- Minimal watering
- Stop fertilizing
- Avoid drafts
- Maximize light
Care by Plant Type
Groundcovers & Vines
Confederate Jasmine, Jasmine Minima, Perennial Peanut
Trim regularly to control growth. Provide support for vines. Water consistently during establishment. Tolerate neglect once mature.
Grasses
Mondo Grass, Dwarf Mondo Grass, Pink Muhly, White Fountain
Cut back foliage late winter. Divide clumps every 3-4 years. Prefer well-drained soil. Water regularly first season.
Shrubs & Hedges
Podocarpus, Indian Hawthorne, Japanese Privet
Prune for shape. Mulch base for moisture. Feed early spring. Water deeply but infrequently once established.
Flowering Plants
Lantana, Blue Daze
Deadhead spent blooms. Feed during blooming season. Provide ample light. Water consistently, allow slight drying between.
Need More Guidance?
Browse our collection for plant-specific care instructions or contact our team for personalized support.