Keep these points in mind when growing plants indoors: evergreen, pest-free and no yellow leaves

The healthy growth of potted plants depends on correct care methods and techniques; it is not enough to just know about watering and fertilizing. Many people like to keep a few plants at home, but when caring for them, you must pay attention to these points!

1. Propagation

In fact, propagating plants kept indoors is relatively simple. For example, common spider plants and pothos can be propagated by directly cutting off some branches and leaves, inserting them into soil, placing them in a shaded and ventilated place, and keeping the potting soil moist; they will quickly take root and sprout.

2. Cleaning

Indoor dust levels are relatively high. After plants have been grown for a period of time, dust will accumulate on the leaves. At this point, use clean water or a soft-bristled brush to wash the leaves clean. Regular cleaning will also make plants grow faster. If your plants have not grown for several years, you should check them.

3. Repotting

Potted plants kept indoors are generally repotted only once every 2~3 years. Repotting is usually done in spring, when the temperature is just right and recovery is relatively quick. When repotting, cut off old roots, rotten roots and dead leaves, place the plant into a new pot, water thoroughly, and wait for it to recover. If you are not sure whether your potted plant needs repotting, you can check whether the roots have grown out. If there are relatively few roots, repotting is not needed.

4. Fertilizing

Plants grown indoors have a low demand for fertilizer. The amount of fertilizer applied normally cannot increase their growth rate. You can apply fertilizer once every 2~3 weeks during the growing season so they grow faster. For soil that already has base fertilizer mixed in, simply ensure basic nutrients are available at ordinary times; too much fertilizer can also cause fertilizer burn.

5. Watering

When plants are not grown well, it is often a watering problem. If you are not sure whether a plant needs watering, insert a small wooden stick into the potting soil. If the stick is wet when pulled out a few minutes later, there is no need to water; if it is dry, water immediately. Of course, watering also needs to be based on the plant's needs. Different plants have different requirements, and this point needs attention.

6. Pests and diseases

Improper care of indoor plants, poor ventilation, or excessive watering can all cause pests and diseases. Be sure to control water in time and pay attention to ventilation. In addition, fallen leaves remaining in the flowerpot for a long time can also lead to pests and diseases. If mealybugs or scale insects infect the plant, you can wipe the affected areas with alcohol, or spray common insecticides. Ants at home should also be cleaned up promptly, because ants are farmers of aphids!

7. Pruning

Pruning is naturally meant to make plants look better and more ornamental. If you see a branch of a plant growing relatively long and affecting the overall appearance, you can pinch it off. After pinching it off, more branches will grow, so there is no need to worry about pinching it bare. Diseased leaves and dead branches should also be removed, otherwise, if they accumulate, they can cause pathogen infection. Moreover, the branches you pinch off can also be used for cuttings propagation.