Houseplant Care 101 

Powell Gardens, Kansas City’s botanical garden, wants to share the importance of plants with you. While most of our collection can be seen outdoors, we fully appreciate the joys of growing plants indoors.  

Did you know houseplants do more than just beautify your home? They also offer a variety of health benefits. Studies show that indoor plants can improve air quality by filtering out pollutants and releasing oxygen, making the air in your home cleaner and fresher. They also help boost mood, reduce stress, and enhance concentration, making them ideal additions to our workspaces and living areas. The act of caring for plants can be therapeutic, offering a calming routine that promotes mental well-being. Whether it’s adding greenery to your office or creating a relaxing home environment, houseplants contribute positively to both your physical and emotional health. 

Houseplants require care and attention to thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting out, knowing how to properly care for indoor plants and selecting the right ones for your space is key. Here’s a comprehensive guide on houseplant care, including essential tips and which plants work best in various light conditions. 

Essential Houseplant Care Tips 

Water Wisely 

One of the biggest mistakes people make when caring for houseplants is overwatering or watering on a strict schedule. So, how often should you water your houseplants? The simple answer: Whenever they need to be watered. Check your plants regularly and only water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Succulents and cacti, for example, need their soil to dry out completely between waterings, while other plants prefer a bit more consistent moisture.  

To prevent overwatering, it’s crucial to choose the right pot size for your plants. A pot that is too large holds excess soil, which retains more moisture than the plant can absorb, leading to root rot. Conversely, a pot that is too small can restrict growth and dry out quickly.     

Learn what your plant needs! Remember, it’s easier for plants to bounce back from under-watering than from root rot caused by too much water. 

Check for Pests 

When you’re checking your plant’s moisture levels, it’s good to inspect your houseplants for pests or diseases. If you spot pests like spider mites or aphids, you can often treat them with horticultural oil or neem oil, which suffocates the insects. Use any pesticides indoors with care and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Bring Houseplants Outside in Summer  

Many houseplants benefit from spending time outdoors in warmer months. Once temperatures rise above 50°F consistently (usually around mid-May in the Kansas City area), you can move them outside. However, avoid placing them in direct sunlight—most houseplants prefer shade or a bit of early morning sun. For plants like cacti and succulents that crave bright light, ease them into outdoor conditions gradually to avoid sunburn. 

Repot at the Right Time 

Spring is the ideal time for repotting, as plants are actively growing and can easily root into their new containers. When choosing a new pot, look for one that’s only a couple of inches larger than the current pot. A container that’s too large may lead to water retention and root rot. Use a high-quality soilless mix to help plants drain properly. 

Special Considerations for Houseplants in the Winter 

During the winter months, most houseplants slow down their growth, so cut back on fertilizing, or stop altogether. Less light and shorter days mean plants need less water too, so adjust your watering habits accordingly. 

Most houseplants will need to return indoors to survive the Midwest winter. Before bringing them inside, inspect for pests, particularly underneath the leaves where mites tend to hide. Applying horticultural oil or neem oil once a week for three consecutive weeks can help prevent issues with pests and disease. Make sure to treat plants at least a few weeks before the move to ensure they’re pest-free.  

Many houseplants, especially tropical ones, prefer higher humidity. Consider using a humidifier or placing plants on a pebble tray with water to maintain moisture levels, especially when indoor conditions are especially dry. 

Houseplants for Every Light Condition 

Have you ever purchased a new houseplant, only to find it withering on your windowsill a few weeks later? The light in your indoor environment matters! Finding the right houseplant for your space depends largely on finding a plant that can grow in your home’s light.  

Don’t fear if your home has low light! Powell Gardens is here to help you achieve your plant parent dreams despite less-than-ideal conditions. Below, we’ve compiled a list of great houseplant option based on different light needs: 

Low Light 

If your home has limited natural light, these plants can still thrive: 

• Madagascar Dragon Tree (Dracaena): A tall, striking plant that adds height to any space. 
• Philodendron: Comes in a variety of forms, from vining to upright, and does well with minimal light. 
• Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Virtually indestructible, it can tolerate low light and infrequent watering. 
• Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Known for its lush leaves and occasional white blooms, it’s great for low light but prefers consistent moisture. 

Moderate Light 

For spaces that receive indirect sunlight or filtered light, consider these options: 

• Peperomia (Radiator Plant): A compact plant with thick, fleshy leaves that thrives in moderate light. 
• Kentia Palm: A graceful, tropical palm that adds a bit of the tropics to your home. 
• ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Known for its thick, glossy leaves, this hardy plant handles a range of light conditions. 

Bright Light 

If you have a sunny spot, these plants will flourish: 

• Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina): This tree-like plant loves bright, indirect light and can grow quite large indoors. 
• Cactus and Succulents: These drought-tolerant plants thrive in sunny windowsills. 
• Croton (Codiaeum): Known for its colorful, vibrant leaves, the Croton needs a lot of light to maintain its bold hues. 

Caring for houseplants can be a relaxing and rewarding experience. By understanding the unique needs of each plant and providing them with the right environment, your indoor jungle will thrive year-round!