Air Plants Plant Care
Location
In order for Air Plants to thrive properly indoors you must make sure that they are near an adequate light source. Take precaution to not let your air plants get too much direct sun, as this can be harmful, even in an indoor environment. Air Plants should be placed within 3-5 feet of a window. An artificial light source would be acceptable. If you are keeping your plants outside, make sure they are in a area that remains shaded for most of the day to prevent prolonged periods of sun exposure.
If you live in an area with freezing conditions, make sure your air plants are indoors.
Watering
Air Plants must be watered at least once a week. Try to store your plants in a place that will sustain humidity the best. Prevent them from drying up too quickly by moving them from places where they may come in contact with heating elements. Misting plants may be needed between watering, but misting should not be the only method of watering.
If your Air Plants look dried out place the plants face down in a container filled with spring water and let them soak for 10-20 minutes. Gently shake off any excess water from the base of the plants, as sitting water can cause rot and kill the plant. Its important that after watering, the plants have enough air circulation to dry within 4 hours.
Succulents & Cactus Plant Care
Location
Cactus and Succulents thrive with proper light sources. It is best to place Cactus and Succulents in a bright place facing south to receive the most light. Although they may not be placed in direct sunlight because intense light may discolor the plant.
In the spring and summer the plants need good ventilation, but will survive in high temperatures. Cacti may be placed outside in the summer to ornament gardens or patios, make sure the location is shaded to prevent intense sun exposure.
During the autumn and winter months, it is best for the plants to be kept cool at night with temperatures of around 50°F. Environments where the temperature is below freezing may require them to be kept under covers during the winter.
Watering
Water your Cactus or Succulents about once per week during the growing season (Spring and Summer). Only water the soil when it is completely dry. Stick your finger into the soil to check. If the soil is dry and crumbly, it’s time to water. During this time of active growth, add enough water to soak the soil. The water should seep out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Depending on the type of cactus, soil, and sunlight you may need to water more or less than once per week.
Do not overwater. If the plant feels mushy, you are watering it too much. Other signs of overwatering include rotting and brown or black leaves.
Repotting Succulents & Cactus
- To begin, water the plant and allow to drain before removing carefully from the pot, gloves are suggested to prevent injury from spikes.
- Separate the old soil from the roots with a chopstick or other thin tool so the roots are not damaged.
- Fill the container halfway with new potting mix and place the plant on the soil.
- Fill the rest of the pot with the potting mix and firm down the soil.
- Do not water for a few days to prevent rotting of damaged roots.