Tropical plants are species which normally grow in parts of the world which have warm weather and abundant sunshine year-round. Many of these lush plants with their rich foliage and colorful blooms can be successfully grown indoors provided they are given the proper care. When growing tropical plants Houston green thumbs need to follow these guidelines to keep them healthy.
If a plant is to reach its optimal growth potential, it is important to ensure that it is potted properly. There must be enough room for the roots to expand, and for thorough drainage. Pots of any material are suitable but they must have holes in the bottom and be the right size for the plant. Before potting the plant, its roots should be clipped if they are too long, and a thin layer of mesh, topped with gravel should be put in the pot. The best soil contains equal parts of vermiculite or perlite, peat, and sand.
Most tropical species need anywhere from 8 to 16 hours of sunlight every day. Full sunlight is required by many, which means placing them in a south-facing window. Those which can suffice with partial shade will usually do well in a window facing east or west. If there are not enough windows, fluorescent lighting can be useful for meeting the plants' light requirements.
Water is very important for the growth and development of a plant, but the amount it needs varies according to its size, type, the temperature and humidity it is growing in, the size of the pot and type of soil. Quite a few species only need to be watered one time each week. Generally, when the soil feels dry, watering is indicated. One must be sure to evenly saturate the soil when adding water.
Cold temperatures can be lethal to tropical plants, so it's imperative to make sure they are kept indoors where they should be comfortable at the regular room temperatures which range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The should not be placed near the drying heat of hot air vents, nor near any door or window that lets in a cold draft.
Fertilizers must be used with caution, as too much or the wrong type can kill a tropical plant. A suitable fertilizer can help boost the plant's growth and increase its foliage. A blend of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, with added zinc, manganese, iron, copper, and magnesium is recommended, and it's essential to carefully follow the instructions for preparation and use indicated on the package.
It is not often necessary to prune these plants, however in some cases it is needed if they are to grow properly. If leaves start falling off, and stems are dying, this can be a sign that the plant's root structure is disproportionately small for its foliage. Cutting back the foliage will help return the plant to health.
People who raise tropical fruit trees may just be lucky enough to grow some fruits. If this is to happen, one must make sure the tree has all it needs for the optimal health needed to produced fruit, this normally includes a large pot, sufficient sun exposure, and for some species, another tree for cross-pollination.
If a plant is to reach its optimal growth potential, it is important to ensure that it is potted properly. There must be enough room for the roots to expand, and for thorough drainage. Pots of any material are suitable but they must have holes in the bottom and be the right size for the plant. Before potting the plant, its roots should be clipped if they are too long, and a thin layer of mesh, topped with gravel should be put in the pot. The best soil contains equal parts of vermiculite or perlite, peat, and sand.
Most tropical species need anywhere from 8 to 16 hours of sunlight every day. Full sunlight is required by many, which means placing them in a south-facing window. Those which can suffice with partial shade will usually do well in a window facing east or west. If there are not enough windows, fluorescent lighting can be useful for meeting the plants' light requirements.
Water is very important for the growth and development of a plant, but the amount it needs varies according to its size, type, the temperature and humidity it is growing in, the size of the pot and type of soil. Quite a few species only need to be watered one time each week. Generally, when the soil feels dry, watering is indicated. One must be sure to evenly saturate the soil when adding water.
Cold temperatures can be lethal to tropical plants, so it's imperative to make sure they are kept indoors where they should be comfortable at the regular room temperatures which range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The should not be placed near the drying heat of hot air vents, nor near any door or window that lets in a cold draft.
Fertilizers must be used with caution, as too much or the wrong type can kill a tropical plant. A suitable fertilizer can help boost the plant's growth and increase its foliage. A blend of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, with added zinc, manganese, iron, copper, and magnesium is recommended, and it's essential to carefully follow the instructions for preparation and use indicated on the package.
It is not often necessary to prune these plants, however in some cases it is needed if they are to grow properly. If leaves start falling off, and stems are dying, this can be a sign that the plant's root structure is disproportionately small for its foliage. Cutting back the foliage will help return the plant to health.
People who raise tropical fruit trees may just be lucky enough to grow some fruits. If this is to happen, one must make sure the tree has all it needs for the optimal health needed to produced fruit, this normally includes a large pot, sufficient sun exposure, and for some species, another tree for cross-pollination.
About the Author:
When it comes to tropical plants Houston can depend on Euflora Interscaping. We provide professional interior landscaping services to Houston commercial and residential clients, and you can find us online at http://www.euflorainterscaping.com for more details.
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