Spring has arrived, but with all the activity establishing veggie gardens, fertilising and sprucing up lawns, it is easy to overlook indoor plants.
They will definitely need some attention after the amount of heating they’ve been subjected to over winter.
I confess, I have a dead Madonna Lily. How is that possible? All they need is water, but it was in a corner near an air conditioning vent. It’s no excuse, but time to turn over a new leaf.
What constitutes an indoor plant? My description and advice is whatever you can grow in the conditions applicable to your home.
Yes, this is a pretty broad statement, but basically all houseplants were grown in the garden before we experimented, introducing mainly shade-loving plants to the interior.
These experiments no doubt occurred in colder climates, where gardens were covered in snow and buffeted by freezing winds; how else could they survive but to move indoors.
Glasshouses and conservatories grew out of this need, even roses were cultivated under glass.
Now to today’s progression, our homes are more open to sunlight and windows, which are opened regularly to let in breezes.
This works for plants as they object to being shut in a corner – a good example being Ficus lyrata (Fiddleleaf fig).
It is often the case of experimenting to see which plants work where; for example, Aspdestra, Madonna Lily (I know, I just killed her), Kentia Palm and Parlour Palm, all of which will survive in low-lit areas.
There are now some great coloured foliage plants suitable for houseplants.
One of my favourites is Ficus Burgandy, hardy with large glossy leaves, which look fabulous glossed with white oil.
Crotons, calatheas, draceanas and cordylines make a great statement for both inside and on patios.
This week
- Check new buds on roses for aphid. Spray with a contact spray such as pyrethrum
- Tip prune fuchsias and geraniums.
- Divide clumps of gerberas.
- Fertilise spring annuals with Flourish.
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