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.
The first step in starting a new plant out right is to pot it properly in a way that will not prevent growth or sufficient drainage. The material the pot is made from doesn't really matter, but should be an appropriate size for the plant and have holes in the bottom. Before adding the plant, its roots should be trimmed slightly, and a layer of mesh topped with one or two inches of gravel should be put in the pot. The best soil mixture for tropicals contains a blend of one part of each peat, sand, perlite or vermiculite.
Since they are naturally accustomed to growing in parts of the world which are hot year-round, tropical plants require plenty of sunlight each day, which is generally anywhere from 8 to 16 hours. Some only need partial sun and will be fine if they are placed in west or east facing windows, but those which need full sun should ideally be positioned towards the south. If there is not enough light, fluorescent lighting can be helpful.
Plants differ in terms of how much water they require according to their size, species, and pot size, as well as the type of soil they are growing in, and the relative humidity and temperature in their environment. There are many varieties which only need a weekly watering. Once the soil feels dry, watering is normally indicated, and its important to ensure that all soil is equally saturated.
Temperature must be warm enough if tropical plants are to survive, since cold can damage their roots and leaves. Most homes have a temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit which is well-suited for these plants, but they should not be positioned near heating vents or in drafty areas.
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.
The first step in starting a new plant out right is to pot it properly in a way that will not prevent growth or sufficient drainage. The material the pot is made from doesn't really matter, but should be an appropriate size for the plant and have holes in the bottom. Before adding the plant, its roots should be trimmed slightly, and a layer of mesh topped with one or two inches of gravel should be put in the pot. The best soil mixture for tropicals contains a blend of one part of each peat, sand, perlite or vermiculite.
Since they are naturally accustomed to growing in parts of the world which are hot year-round, tropical plants require plenty of sunlight each day, which is generally anywhere from 8 to 16 hours. Some only need partial sun and will be fine if they are placed in west or east facing windows, but those which need full sun should ideally be positioned towards the south. If there is not enough light, fluorescent lighting can be helpful.
Plants differ in terms of how much water they require according to their size, species, and pot size, as well as the type of soil they are growing in, and the relative humidity and temperature in their environment. There are many varieties which only need a weekly watering. Once the soil feels dry, watering is normally indicated, and its important to ensure that all soil is equally saturated.
Temperature must be warm enough if tropical plants are to survive, since cold can damage their roots and leaves. Most homes have a temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit which is well-suited for these plants, but they should not be positioned near heating vents or in drafty areas.
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.
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