Beat the Heat: Best Indoor Plants for Summer
ZZ PLANT (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant, scientifically known as Zamioculcas Zamiifolia, is a popular houseplant celebrated for its low-maintenance nature and striking appearance. Native to East Africa, it’s often referred to as Zanzibar Gem. There are three main varieties: black, green, and variegated, with the black form being the most popular. The ZZ Plant is known for its thick, shiny, dark green leaves, which make it a favorite among indoor plant enthusiasts. While it rarely flowers, when it does, it produces cream-colored blooms similar to peace lilies. Its ability to thrive in low light and with minimal care makes it a top choice for both homes and offices. Additionally, the ZZ Plant is known to improve indoor air quality by removing toxins.
Care Requirements:
Light:
The ZZ Plant prefers indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions, making it ideal for rooms with limited natural light. However, it can also grow in early morning sunlight. Direct afternoon sunlight should be avoided as it can burn the leaves.
Watering:
ZZ Plants are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry, usually every 10-12 days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to avoid letting water accumulate in the soil.
Soil:
The ZZ Plant thrives in well-drained soil. A suitable soil mixture would include 30% garden soil, 30% sand, 30% compost, and 10% perlite. This combination ensures that water does not pool around the roots, which could lead to rot.
Temperature & Humidity:
ZZ Plants do best in temperatures between 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. They are not frost-tolerant and should be kept away from temperatures below 8 degrees Celsius. Normal room humidity is sufficient, but they should not be kept in air-conditioned rooms as the cold air can be detrimental.
Pests:
ZZ Plants are generally resistant to pests, but if any infestation occurs, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used as a treatment.
Yellowing Leaves:
If the leaves turn yellow or become brown and soft, it’s likely due to overwatering. Adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Propagation:
ZZ Plants can be propagated in three ways:
Division: The plant has rhizomes (similar to potatoes) beneath the soil. These can be separated and planted in new pots with moist soil to produce new plants.
Leaf Cutting: Take a healthy leaf from a branch and plant it in moist soil. Keep it in bright light, and new seedlings should sprout after a few days.
Stem Cutting: Cut a branch from the base of the plant and place it in a container of water. After a few days, roots will develop, and the cutting can then be planted in soil.
Fertilizer:
ZZ Plants don’t require much fertilizer. However, if you choose to fertilize, a compost-based fertilizer works well. For liquid fertilizer, mix 50 grams of compost, 5 grams of mustard seeds, and 2 grams of magnesium sulfate in 1 liter of water. Let it sit for 3-4 days, then dilute and spray the plant every 20-25 days.
Spider Plant 🪴
The spider plant is a very popular indoor plant worldwide. It is an elite indoor plant for home decoration with a beautiful composition of green and yellow colors. The scientific name of the spider plant is Chlorophytum comosum. It is a beautiful plant that enhances the beauty of a home. Originally from South Africa, the spider plant is now popular all over the world. Spider plants are usually 10-24 inches tall, and their leaves can grow up to 20 inches long. The plant typically has small, white, star-shaped flowers that are less spongy than the leaves. According to NASA research, spider plants purify 90% of indoor air and increase indoor humidity. They help maintain a healthy environment by absorbing harmful substances from the air and providing fresh oxygen. Spider plants mainly absorb formaldehyde and xylene from indoor pesticides. They do not require much attention and can survive with minimal care.
Care Requirements:
Light: Spider plants prefer bright, indirect light, but they can also adapt to low light. If you place the plant in a low-light area, it will benefit from being moved to bright, indirect light every few days. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves and damage the plant’s appearance.
Watering: Spider plants do not require much water. They are drought-tolerant and prefer to be on the dry side. Before watering, check if the soil is completely dry. If it is, water the plant thoroughly, ensuring that the water drains well. Standing water can cause the leaves to rot and may kill the plant. Distilled water is preferable.
Soil: Spider plants need porous soil with good drainage. Since they dislike excess water, the soil should be prepared to prevent water accumulation. A recommended soil mixture consists of 30% sand, 30% garden soil, 30% compost, and 10% mustard greens.
Temperature & Humidity: Spider plants thrive in temperatures between 18 to 32 degrees Celsius. They can tolerate slightly higher or lower temperatures but cannot survive temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, so they should be protected from extreme cold. Humidity is not a concern for this plant, as it adapts well to both low and high humidity.
Fertilizer: Spider plants do not need much fertilizer. Once a month, soak two tablespoons of mustard leaves in water and use the liquid for fertilization.
Propagation: Propagating spider plants is very easy. When the plant produces buds, small branches will grow. Cut a healthy branch and plant it in moist soil. A new spider plant will emerge in a few days.
Toxicity: Spider plants are generally non-toxic. Eating the leaves does not cause any harm.
Snake Plant
The snake plant is a popular indoor plant nowadays. The scientific name of this plant is Sansevieria trifasciata, which means a plant with narrow and rigid leaves. It was originally cultivated as a houseplant in West Africa and has now spread all over the world. The popularity of the snake plant increased after NASA research revealed its various benefits. The plant’s leaves resemble a snake’s hood, which is why it’s called a snake plant. There are about 70-75 species of snake plants. Depending on the size and variety, this plant grows from 10 inches to 4 feet tall. It blooms in mid-spring, producing small, white flowers with a pleasant fragrance. The beauty of this plant entirely depends on its leaves. The main attraction of the snake plant is its long, gray-colored leaves with dark green and light green patterns.
Care Requirements
Light: Snake plants prefer bright, indirect light, but they can adapt to low light. They can thrive in various lighting conditions, whether low or high light. However, indirect bright light is ideal. If you want to fully appreciate the beauty of this plant, keep it in indirect light.
Watering: Snake plants do not require much water. This plant is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions. When watering, check if the soil is completely dry. If it is, water it sufficiently. Care should be taken to avoid water accumulation, as standing water can cause the leaves to rot, leading to the plant’s death.
Soil: Snake plants need well-draining soil. Since they don’t like excess water, the soil should be prepared to prevent water from accumulating. A good soil mixture can consist of 33% sand, 34% garden soil, and 33% compost.
Temperature & Humidity
Snake plants thrive in temperatures between 15 and 27 degrees Celsius but can adapt to slightly higher or lower temperatures. However, they cannot tolerate temperatures below 7 degrees Celsius, so they should be kept away from extreme cold. Humidity is not a concern for this plant, as it can live well in normal humidity levels and adapt to both low and high humidity.
Propagation
Snake plants can be propagated using two methods:
- Root division
- Leaf cutting
- Root Division: A new snake plant can be obtained by separating part of the plant and planting it in moist soil.
- Leaf Cutting: If you cut the leaves of a snake plant and insert the cut part into wet soil, new roots will emerge after a few days, resulting in a new plant.
Pest Attacks
Pests are not commonly seen on snake plants. If pests do appear, spraying neem oil on the entire plant can solve the problem.
Toxicity
Snake plants are generally toxic, so they should be kept away from children and pets. Ingesting the leaves of this plant can cause various symptoms, including nausea, loss of appetite, and a sore throat.
Croton Plant
I have a Croton tree. I would like to share my personal experience on how to take care of a Croton tree and help it thrive. Croton is an attractive indoor plant with colorful leaves. According to Google, the scientific name of the Croton tree is Codiaeum variegatum. The Croton plant can be placed anywhere inside the house where there is always light. There are different species of Croton trees based on the shape of their leaves. The main attraction of the Croton tree is its colorful leaves, often variegated with shades of green, yellow, orange, and even black. This plant is more common in South Asia. The Croton plant I have is about 3 feet tall. In nature, this plant can grow up to 10 feet tall. However, indoor plants typically grow 2-5 feet tall. The growing season for the Croton tree is from spring to autumn. The growth of this plant is very slow during winter.
Care & Requirements:
Light: Croton plants like bright indirect light. They can tolerate direct natural sunlight, but excess sunlight can burn the leaves.
Watering: Croton plants love water. However, if given excess water, the leaves will rot. Therefore, if the topsoil is dry, water should be given in sufficient quantity.
Soil Mixing: Croton plants prefer well-drained loamy soil. Soil mix should be 30% garden soil, 30% compost manure, 30% cocopeat, 3% neem manure, 2% forest bill, 2% Epsom salt, and 3% leaf rot.
Temperature & Humidity: A temperature range of 15-30 degrees Celsius is most suitable for Croton plants. However, they can adapt to slightly lower or higher temperatures. Croton trees like high humidity. If the humidity is too low, the beauty of the leaves will be lost. It is better to avoid places where the temperature changes suddenly.
Care Tips:
Pruning: Like other trees, it is important to prune the Croton tree. If you don’t want the tree to grow too much, you can cut the excess parts.
Fertilization: Applying any kind of compost fertilizer with a thick layer of neem khul once every month will be enough for Croton plants. Always remember that Croton plants do not like phosphorus. NPK 18-018 mixed with water and applied at the base of the plant once a month is good for the plant’s growth.
Pests: Croton plants are susceptible to pests like spiders, ants, and mealybugs. Spraying neem oil every 15-20 days reduces the chances of insect attacks.
Propagation: February and the rainy season are the best times for Croton propagation. Cut any branch of the tree and remove any leaves close to the cut part. Apply honey to the cut part and keep it in moist soil for a few days to get new Croton plant seedlings.
Repotting: Repotting is not necessary unless you want to change the shape of the tree. If you want to bud the tree, you can take a small bud pot from the previous pot and repot it there. After repotting, the leaves may fall off. There is no reason to worry; new leaves will start growing after a few days.
Toxicity: Both the leaves and sap of the Croton plant are poisonous. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Money Plant 🌱
The money plant is a well-known indoor plant. Its scientific name is Pothos. In different parts of the world, this plant is known by various names, including golden pothos and lichen vine. People like this plant because it looks very attractive. The leaves of the money plant are shaped like betel leaves, and the combination of brown and green makes it appealing. After 10 years, the money plant produces small, white or pink, star-shaped flowers with long stamens. The money plant is originally from China, but it has become very popular in South Asia. You can keep this plant in a hanging pot or an earthen pot. Many people believe that the money plant brings good luck. Like other indoor plants, the money plant has many benefits. It purifies the air, maintains humidity in the room, reduces stress, and offers other positive effects. The money plant is particularly effective at removing benzene, xylene, and formaldehyde from the air. Here are some care tips based on my experience with the money plant:
Care Requirements:
Light: The money plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight in the morning helps with its growth, but it can also adapt to low light. However, prolonged low light exposure may diminish the beauty of its leaves. If you keep the money plant indoors, place it outside in bright light for at least one day every 10-12 days. Avoid direct sunlight in the afternoon, as it can burn the leaves.
Watering: Water the plant moderately, but ensure that water does not accumulate. When the top inch of the soil is completely dry, it’s time to water the plant. During winter, reduce the amount of watering since the plant’s growth slows down. Excess water can cause the roots to rot and may kill the plant.
Soil: The money plant needs porous soil with good drainage. Since it doesn’t like too much water, the soil should be prepared to prevent water retention. A recommended soil mixture consists of 25% sand, 25% garden soil, 25% compost manure, and 25% cocopeat, with a bit of bonemeal and neem khali.
Temperature & Humidity: The money plant thrives in temperatures between 14 to 30 degrees Celsius. It can adapt to slightly higher or lower temperatures but cannot tolerate temperatures below 7 degrees Celsius, so it should be protected from extreme cold. Humidity is not a concern for this plant, as it can live well in normal humidity and adapt to both low and high humidity.
Fertilizer: The money plant does not need much fertilizer. However, applying compost fertilizer every 2-3 months is beneficial. It’s best to apply fertilizer after sunset.
Pruning: Pruning is essential for maintaining the beauty of the money plant. Regularly trim any overly long or unnecessary branches.
Propagation: You can propagate new plants by transplanting branches with shoots into wet soil. These branches can be taken from the plant during pruning.
rubber plant
Description:
The rubber plant is a very well-known indoor plant. It is as beautiful as it looks. According to Google, the scientific name of the rubber plant is Ficus elastica. The rubber plant is one of the few indoor plants recognized by NASA as the best for air purification. The rubber plant removes formaldehyde from the house, purifies indoor air, and absorbs other toxins. The surface of the leaves of this tree looks like it has been coated with wax, making them appear shiny. The beauty of the leaves of this tree attracts everyone. If not pruned, this tree can grow up to 30-45 meters tall. If the leaves or any part of the tree are broken, a white sticky substance is released. Having a rubber plant in the house can reduce the tendency of allergies by 50-60%, reduce the chances of asthma, and increase humidity.
Care Requirements:
Light: Bright but indirect sunlight is most preferred by rubber plants. The plant does better if it is kept in the sunlight for some time in the morning and afternoon. Strong sun and dense shade are the most harmful for the rubber tree.
Soil Mixing: 30% garden soil, 30% sand soil, 25% compost manure, 15% cocopeat.
Watering: A good drainage system is very important for rubber plants. Excess water is harmful to rubber plants. When the soil is dry, give enough water. Too much water can cause the leaves to rot and the plant to die.
Temperature & Humidity: 60-80 degrees F is ideal for rubber plants. Avoid areas with sudden temperature changes. Rubber plants prefer normal humidity.
Fertilization: Rubber plants do not require much fertilizer. It is good to use compost fertilizer once a month.
Maintenance:
Pruning: When pruning the rubber tree, one or two leaves can be cut along with the upper part. If the upper part of the tree is cut, then the tree will have a very beautiful shape.
Leaf Drop or Brown Leaf: Direct sunlight and overwatering are the main causes of brown leaf or leaf drop. Sudden changes in temperature can also cause this.
Pests: Pests are very common in rubber plants. Like other indoor plants, pest attacks should be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Propagation: To propagate the rubber tree, first cut a part of the upper part of the tree, trim some leaves, and wash the sap of the cut part separately. After 1 day, if you apply honey to the cut part and keep it in wet soil, you will get new seedlings in a few days.
Toxicity: The sap or leaves of the rubber tree are very toxic to humans and animals, so it should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Bird's-nest fern
Today I would like to discuss a unique indoor plant called Bird’s Nest Fern. The scientific name of this plant is Asplenium nidus. Bird’s Nest Fern looks like a bird’s nest. The leaves of this plant are quite long, and the fronds are wavy or slightly curled. There are four varieties of Bird’s Nest Fern. The leaves are green in color and grow up to 4-5 feet long. Plants that are used as indoor plants are usually up to 2 feet tall. It is a hill plant. Bird’s Nest Fern is used as an indoor plant to enhance the beauty of the house. Bird’s Nest Fern doesn’t require a lot of attention. With a little care, this plant can grow well in pots.
Care Requirements:
- Light: Bird’s Nest Fern likes indirect bright light. The leaves burn in direct sunlight. If left in the light of the morning sun for 2-3 hours, the growth is good. They cannot thrive in very low light.
- Watering: This plant does not need much water. Bird’s Nest Fern can be watered well every 7-8 days as needed. In extra hot weather, the soil at the base of the plant should be checked after 3-4 days. The soil at the base of the plant should be well-watered. No need to water if it is wet. Excess water causes the leaves of this plant to turn yellow and rot. Water should not be applied directly to the plant.
- Temperature & Humidity: Temperatures of 75°F to 95°F are ideal for Bird’s Nest Fern plants. This plant likes high humidity but can also adapt to low humidity.
- Soil: Well-drained peaty soil is ideal for Bird’s Nest Fern. The soil mixture should be made in such a way that it does not retain water. The ideal soil mixture is 30% garden soil, 30% cocopeat, 20% red sand, and 20% compost manure.
- Fertilizer: If using granular NPK 19:19:19 fertilizer, 4-5 grains should be applied in succession.
Areca palm
I would like to talk to you about a very interesting indoor plant called Areca palm. According to Google, it is indigenous to Madagascar, a small country in Africa. This tree from Madagascar has reached tree lovers all over the world. Areca palm is the most widely used palm in interior design. Although the growth is very slow, the beauty of this tree brightens the room. Apart from indoor use, you can also keep this plant outdoors if you want. Tree lovers in different parts of the world know this plant as the lucky plant and believe that it brings happiness and peace. According to information from the University of Vermont, keeping this plant in the workplace reduces stress by 37%, work-related fatigue by 38%, and also improves mental health.
Benefits:
Areca palm purifies indoor air by removing toxic substances like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Areca palm is a low-maintenance indoor plant that does not require much time to care for and enhances beauty.
Care Requirements:
Light: Areca palm loves light. If this tree is used as an indoor plant, it should be placed in a spot that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Areca palm cannot tolerate strong sunlight, so this plant can be kept in light sunlight.
Watering: Like other palms, the Areca palm prefers moist soil. However, Areca palm does not like soil that is always wet. Excess water will rot the plant’s roots. If the soil is dry, provide enough water.
Temperature & Humidity: A temperature of 60°F to 75°F is suitable for this plant. However, if it is a little lower or higher, this plant can adapt. If the temperature drops below 50°F, it can be problematic for this plant. The plant likes high humidity, so the indoor Areca palm can adapt well. If the humidity is low, the tips of the leaves turn brown.
Soil: Well-drained loamy soil is best for this plant. Acidic soil mixed with sand is also preferred.
Soil Mixing: 50% garden soil, 10% cocopeat, 25% sand, 15% compost.
Fertilizer: Areca palm likes fertilizers very much. This plant can be fertilized throughout the year except winter. Fertilizers that contain nitrogen and potassium are good for Areca palm. For this reason, banana peels can be crushed after drying and applied to the base of the plant. Also, any kind of compost fertilizer can be applied every 2 months.
Propagation: Areca palm can be propagated from seed. However, another method of getting another Areca palm is the root division method. It is possible to get new plants by this method at any time of the year. The most suitable time for propagation is from the early stages of spring to the onset of summer.
Repotting: It is better to repot Areca palm in a small container with a good drainage system. As a result, if this plant is kept indoors, its shape will be controlled. It is better to repot this tree every 2 years. The soil should be changed while repotting.
Common Issues:
Yellowing Leaves: Water accumulates at the base of the plant due to a lack of a proper drainage system. This can cause the leaves to turn yellow.
Brown Leaf Tips: If there is not enough humidity and direct sunlight falls on the plant, this condition of the leaves can occur. Care must be taken to prevent this.
Pests: Not many pests are seen in Areca palm. However, mealybugs, spider mites, etc., may appear. If the Areca palm is affected by such pests, treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Calathea zebrina
Among the many species of indoor plants, the best known and favorite species of all is Calathea zebrina. Calathea zebrina is commonly known as the zebra plant. The primary reason why this plant is loved by everyone is the variety of its leaves. If you look closely at the leaves, you will see vibrant colors as if someone has painted them meticulously. There are different types of Calathea based on the variety of leaves. Although the species of Calathea are different, their care is almost the same. Calathea zebrina helps to maintain the indoor environment at the right level. Its unique and attractive foliage makes it a great addition to any houseplant collection. Let’s learn more about the Calathea zebrina plant.
Appearance:
Calathea species are mainly known for their attractive leaves. There are different varieties of Calathea according to the variety of leaves. If you look closely, it appears as though a skilled artist has painted the leaves with great care. You will fall in love with nature when you come in contact with this plant. This plant grows to be 70 cm to 1 meter tall.
Care Requirements:
Light: Calathea zebrina does not like direct sunlight. Indirect light is suitable for this plant. Direct sunlight burns the leaves. Choose a location with indirect light and good air circulation.
Watering: Calathea zebrina does not like excess water. If the surface of the soil is dry, water should be given in sufficient quantity. It should be kept in mind that the amount of water should not be too much. If the drainage system is not good, the water will stagnate, the roots will rot, and the plant will die.
Temperature & Humidity: Calathea zebrina likes high humidity. 50% or more humidity is suitable for this plant. You can increase the humidity level by using a humidifier. Along with humidity, temperature is also an important factor for this plant. 60°F – 80°F is ideal for Calathea zebrina plants. Low temperatures and sudden temperature changes should be avoided.
Soil Mixing: Well-drained soil is very important. No indoor plant can survive without good quality soil. Calathea zebrina requires a soil mix of 50% garden soil, 30% potting soil with good drainage, vermicompost manure, and 20% sand. It is better to mix ingredients like pine bark, cocoa coir, and perlite well.
Fertilizer: Fertilizer can be applied to the plants every month. Fertilizer should be reduced in winter.
Common Issues:
Brown Leaf Edges: Improper moisture levels and irregular watering can cause leaves to turn brown. Humidity should be maintained at the right level and water should be given as per the rules.
Yellow Leaves: If there is no good drainage system, water accumulates at the base of the plant. As a result, the roots of the plant rot and the leaves turn yellow.
Pests: Pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can appear on this plant. Regular inspection and maintenance are required.
lucky bamboo
Now, I will discuss a very beautiful indoor plant called Lucky Bamboo. Its scientific name is Dracaena sanderiana. Lucky Bamboo is a very popular indoor plant in South Asia and is in demand all over the world. The original home of this plant is South Africa, but it was introduced to the world through the Chinese. Traditionally, the Chinese have used this plant as a symbol of luck. Thanks to the Chinese, this plant is now known worldwide as Lucky Bamboo. You may not believe that Lucky Bamboo can change people’s fate, but you cannot deny the beauty of this plant. You can shape the Lucky Bamboo plant yourself, and by cutting it the right way, you can enhance the beauty of your home. It is easy to propagate and is a low-maintenance indoor plant. This plant does not require much attention from you. Lucky Bamboo also cleans indoor air and helps maintain the right level of humidity.
Care Requirements
Light: Like other indoor plants, Lucky Bamboo prefers bright, indirect light. However, it can survive in low light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so keep it away from direct sunlight.
Watering: Lucky Bamboo can grow well in both soil and water. If you want to keep this plant in a water-filled pot, you must fully submerge the roots in water and change the water every 2 weeks.
Temperature & Humidity: A temperature between 20°C and 35°C is ideal for this plant. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 15°C. Lucky Bamboo thrives in normal humidity levels, but if humidity decreases, you can spray the entire plant with water.
Fertilizer: Although Lucky Bamboo doesn’t need much fertilizer, some can be used to keep the plant healthy. Mix cinnamon powder with Epsom salt in water, and apply it to the plant every 2-3 months.
Pests: Be cautious of pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. If such pests attack, mix 5 ml of liquid soap with 1 liter of water and spray the entire plant. After 1 hour, wash the whole plant with normal water to resolve the issue.
Alocasia Black Velvet
Alocasia Black Velvet is a very attractive indoor plant. This plant is also known as Elephant Ear or Jewel Alocasia. This indoor plant has deep green (almost black) velvety leaves with attractive silver veins. In various countries, this plant is also called the lucky tree. This plant likes high humidity. Alocasia Black Velvet is an environmentally friendly plant. However, the leaves of this plant are usually toxic. Therefore, the plant’s leaves are not safe for humans and other animals to eat. If you are an indoor gardener, Alocasia Black Velvet may be a good choice. With proper care, Alocasia Black Velvet can be a long-lasting and visually appealing addition to any indoor plant collection.
Appearance:
Foliage: The leaves of Alocasia Black Velvet are dark green to almost black velvet in appearance and have silver-white veins. The leaves of this plant look like a heart shape. The leaves are narrow when they are young and gradually take the heart shape. Leaves may turn yellow without proper care.
Size: This is a compact plant. Due to its excellent shape, it can be placed next to a balcony or window. Leaves can be 6-7 inches long and 3-5 inches across. The entire plant reaches 13-20 inches in height.
Care Requirements:
Light: Direct sunlight is harmful to the Alocasia Black Velvet plant. This plant can grow well in bright indirect light. Too much low light will inhibit the normal growth of this plant, and the velvety structure of the leaves may be lost. Excess direct sunlight will burn the leaves. Therefore, bright indirect light is suitable for this plant.
Watering: Alocasia Black Velvet likes normal humidity. With good drainage, this plant maintains normal growth and beauty. Excess water causes the rotting of roots and yellowing of leaves. Therefore, proper soil mix and good drainage should be prepared.
Humidity: High humidity is essential for Alocasia Black Velvet. If the humidity level is 55-65% or more, they get a suitable environment.
Temperature: Keep the Alocasia Black Velvet plant in a warm environment. Specifically, a temperature of 17-30 degrees Celsius is suitable.
Growth and Maintenance:
Dormancy: This plant can go dormant during winter. In winter, their growth slows down and they may lose some leaves. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing in this condition.
Propagation: Alocasia Black Velvet is propagated naturally by repotting. Rhizomes can be divided and potted separately to grow new plants.
Soil: A mixture of well-drained soil should be prepared. Leaf manure, a small amount of cocopeat, and rice bran can be used to retain some water.
Monstera Deliciosa
Let’s talk about an indoor plant that thrives with little care, called Monstera. This plant is known by different names around the world, with its scientific name being Monstera deliciosa. In South Asia, it is known as the Broken Heart plant. Monstera is native to Brazil and Mexico. This plant can reach a height of about 18-22 meters, with its leaves growing up to 90 cm. It can grow about 1-3 meters per year. Monstera is a popular indoor plant known for its bold, shiny leaves with distinct pits and divisions. The leaves look like a painting by a famous artist. It is an elegant indoor plant, perfect for interior decoration. I am sharing my personal experience with this plant.
Care Requirements
Light: Monstera can grow well in bright, indirect light. It can survive in low light, but its growth will be stunted. Low light also affects the beauty of this plant. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.
Watering: Monstera likes soft soil. Before watering the Monstera plant, check the soil. If the top part of the soil is completely dry, water the plant moderately. Be careful not to let water accumulate in the soil, as this can cause the plant to rot and potentially die.
Temperature & Humidity: Monstera plants grow well in temperatures between 20-32°C. While this plant can adapt to slightly lower or higher temperatures, it cannot tolerate temperatures below 12°C. Monstera loves moisture and can thrive in high humidity, though it also does well in normal humidity.
Soil: Monstera prefers well-draining soil. The soil mixture should be prepared to prevent water accumulation. A suitable soil mixture could be: 30% garden soil, 25% cocopeat, 25% vermicompost, and 20% perlite.
Fertilizer: Monstera plants do not need much fertilizer. You can apply compost to the soil every 4-5 weeks during spring and summer. For liquid fertilizer, mix 1 handful of compost in 1 liter of water, leave it in a shaded place for 2-3 days, then use the liquid for the plant’s soil. For chemical fertilizers, you can mix 1 spoon of NPK 19-19-19 with 1 liter of water.
Propagation: Propagating the Broken Heart plant is very easy. It can be done through stem cuttings. If you cut a branch with a node and plant it in moist soil, a new plant will grow in a few days.
Pests: Monstera plants are prone to pest attacks, particularly from spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids, which often attack the leaf tips. In case of a pest attack, mix 6-7 ml of neem oil in 1 liter of water and spray the entire plant.
Toxicity: Monstera plants are generally toxic, so they should be kept away from children and pets. Ingesting the leaves can cause various issues, including nausea, loss of appetite, and a sore throat.