Five Killer Quora Answers On Common Houseplants

Common Houseplants For Warm Climates

Many plants that thrive outdoors can be grown indoors. In the indoor environment, many palms thrive, such as the robustly tolerant parlour and the graceful paradise palm.

Pothos and some varieties (such as the Crotons with variegated colors) are easy to cultivate and have attractive foliage. Orchids require bright light and constant watering. However it is important to let the soil dry between waterings.

Aroids

The aroid family is vast and includes some of the most popular houseplants of the present. Monocotyledonous plants are prized more for their leaves than their flowers. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and growth habits. They also come in many colors. These plants include monstera, philodendrons and anthuriums, and colocasia.

These understory plants typically receive dappled sunlight, so they thrive in moderate to bright indirect lighting in the home. They can tolerate less light conditions, such as windows that face north (just ensure that the sun isn't directly shining on the leaves).

Most of these plants do best in moist, warm climates. Place them in a pot with a well-drained soil and a potting mix that offers good air circulation. Aroids can be susceptible to excessive watering, so make sure you make sure to check the top 2 inches of soil often. They may wilt, droop or develop dark brown mushily-colored spots if overwatered.

Bromeliads

Bromeliad plants possess a unique feature that lets them to store water within their leaves or in a cup at the bottom of the plant. They also release water when they need it using trichomes. This makes them among the most drought-tolerant houseplants however, they still benefit from being misted occasionally.

Certain species, such as the Guzmania and neoregelia varieties, are grown for their vibrant foliage which could include spots, stripes, or bands of color. Certain species, like Tillandsia or Vriesea, produce spikes with brightly colored flowers.

Some bromeliads are kept indoors all year round While others are relocated outside during the warmer months (where temperatures stay above freezing). In the Hidden Jungle garden at the Safari Park we can see bromeliads. The genus Guzmania includes a wide variety of tropical plants including the pineapple (Ananas Comosus) which was introduced to Europe in 1493 following Columbus' second visit to the New World.

Cacti

Many people enjoy bringing the beauty of cacti into their homes. These special plants are adapted to desert conditions and most species have spiny stems. They also produce flowers and fruit. The spines serve a function to deter herbivores that could otherwise eat the leaves and fruits.

Like other desert-adapted plants cacti can store water within their roots and stems during drought periods. They also store carbon dioxide in their stomata during the day, and release it when photosynthesis occurs.

In Central and South America, some cacti such as the cholla, and the prickly-pear (Opuntia) are used to build living fences. Others, such as Lophophora williamsii (cactus peyote), have long been used for their hallucinogenic properties.

Ferns

Ferns are among the most popular indoor plants, despite the absence of flowers or fruit. However, they're easy to cultivate. The key to success lies in the growing medium that resembles the forest floor. It should be abundant in organic matter, but also contain coarse gravel or perlite, to ensure proper drainage.

A fern's needs should determine how often it gets misted. They love the humidity of living rooms and family spaces, but If you notice the fronds becoming brown or dropping leaves, this is an indication of low humidity.

To prevent water logging or root rot, the soil should be evenly moistened but not soaking wet. Simply insert your finger in the soil to look for moisture. It should feel moist to the touch, but not soaking wet. Avoid overwatering, since this can cause a yellowing effect on the fronds. Keep it away from radiators and direct sunlight as these dry the plant out too fast.

Begonias

If you're displaying them in a decorative pot, in a macrame hanging basket or in a garden, begonias add vibrant colors to indoor spaces. They thrive in bright, indirect light and require a lot of humidity.

Fibrous-rooted Begonias require little maintenance plants that are easy to grow. The 'Dragonwing' series is the best-known, with blooms in scarlet, pink, yellow and apricot on dark-bronze to green foliage. For a compact version, try the 'Baby Wing' series that can grow to 12 to 15 inches tall.

Polka dot begonias are often sold as taller than 4 feet planters for the floor, and they are beautiful with beautiful leaves and Polka-dot patterns on both sides. They require regular watering, and a regular application of liquid fertilizer. They are susceptible to wilting when the soil is too dry, so make sure you check the moisture level regularly. The begonias aren't fussy about the type of soil they prefer, however they will benefit from a light, fast-draining mixture like African violet potting soil or one specifically made for house plants.

Palms

Palms can bring a tropical feel to your home. They are commonly used as indoor plants. They are easy to care for and can be an attractive focal point in any room. They are tough however they could be destroyed by cold temperatures, which is why they should be moved into the garage or protected in the home in winter.

Palm leaves are also referred to as palmate or pinnate and are shaped like a V. The leaflets are joined or overlapped for part or all of their length and are joined by the costa that is an extension of the petiole into the leaf blade.

Many species of palms are harvested for their fruits and wood. Palms are cultivated as shade trees in warmer climates, and indoor plants to give an exotic feel. For example the peach palm (Brassica pendula) is grown for its edible fruit and as an agricultural crop for coffee, while the tagua, also known as ivory palm (Phytelephas aequatorialis) is used to make the vegetable ivory and rattan.

Schefflera

Scheffleras, also known as umbrella plants or octopus plants are among the most popular types of house plants. They are easy to take care of and don't require much or any coddling.

Scheffleras can thrive in light-medium conditions but do best in indirect, bright light. Excessive exposure to direct sunlight can burn the leaves. Lack of light can cause the plant to become weak and floppy.

Make sure you water your plants often, but be cautious not to overwater. Overwatering could cause root rot. When repotting, use the container that is only a little larger than the original pot. the over-sized pot could result in too much soil that remains moist for too long.

Be aware of insects like aphids or spider mites. If you spot pests take them off and treat the plants with an insecticide that is natural, such as neem oil. If the leaves begin to turn brown, it's due to lack of moisture or an extreme temperature.

Polyscias

Polyscias which is native to the subtropical islands of the Pacific, literally means "lots" of shade. This plant fits that description perfectly. It is a beautiful plant with a twisted stem and gorgeous leaves. It's a wonderful houseplant to create a tranquil atmosphere. The leaves are a source of medicinal benefits and are utilized as a tonic, diuretic, antitoxin and to treat fever, coughs and colds. The leaves have anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties. Studies have also found that they contain eight novel saponins derived from oleanolic acid (polysciosides) and three well-known ones (polyacetylenes).

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Place your Polyscias at an area that is sunny but does not expose the leaves to direct sunlight, as they can be burned. Water the soil as it dries up however, do not overwater. This could cause root rot, and possibly leaf dropping. https://houseplantalley.com/ using a houseplant that is labeled feed every four waters in the summer, but reduce feeding to every six days in autumn and winter.

Philodendrons

Philodendrons are one of the most easy houseplants to cultivate which is why they are popular for new or novice gardeners. The classic trailing philodendron hederaceum5 is fast-growing and adaptable to different lighting conditions, flourishing as a hanging basket or climbing a trellis outside in frost-free zones and happily spreading its heart-shaped leaves over windows in the bedroom or at a desk sill inside.

For a striking statement for your living space, Try the cultivar 'Congo Roca', which has elliptical leaves in a dark shade of brown purple. Its unique color emphasizes its sculptural appearance and is ideal for modern rooms with minimalist furniture or decorated with black. Make sure that the philodendrons are located in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Avoid giving them too much water. Overwatering can lead to slowed growth and a yellowing of leaf edges. Always use lukewarm water and add plant food with water-diluted solutions, instead of directly into the soil. Directly watering the soil can cause shock to philodendrons and cause them to lose their health.

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Pub: 16 Jul 2023 00:31 UTC

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