Want to know how to make your plants look good this summer? Summer bodies are made in springtime. You need to put in a bit of effort now to get your plants in the best shape for summer and lookin' good! Everyone is familiar with the reference ‘spring cleaning’, well that applies to your plants. You need to give them a little bit of TLC to help them look their best in summer. Don't fret, we will give you the low down on how to achieve that perfect summer bod! (I mean plant!).
1. Trim and prune those plants to help them looking their best!
In winter we let things go but in spring it’s time to trim things back (you know what I’m talking about ladies). It also promotes growth and a fuller plant. Bear in mind, every plant is different. Some you can cut anywhere (most succulents and cacti) but some you have to cut at a node, and it will branch off and create two stems. And an added bonus, why not propagate those cuttings and make more plant babies! Springtime is also the best time for propagating (here's some tips on how to propagate). It's also a good time to get rid of those leaves that are holding it back. Cut off any leaves that are starting to turn brown or yellow. There's no point in wasting energy that can be put into new growth.
2. Re-pot or pot up
Repotting your plants is a great way to add fresh nutrients back into the soil. Yes, you might be fertilising your plants but after a while most nutrients will be leached out of the soil and into the plant. Rule of thumb: plants generally need repotting every 12 to 18 months. It’s like changing a kitchen sponge. It might still soak up water, but it’s not doing its job as well as it could be. Now is the perfect time to also decide whether to pot up. Remember most plants like to be slightly snug in their pot and you should only ever increase one size up. Springtime is also the time to start fertilising your plants again. It’s your plants first cup of coffee after they wake up. But do note, if you decide to repot your plant, then the new soil won’t need any added fertiliser for about four to six weeks.
3. The light is good, so strike a pose
Reposition your plants for that perfect look (like taking a selfie, you need the right lighting and angle). You might have moved your plants in winter closer to the window to capture the most available light, but now it is time to reposition them. As the days get longer with more available light, it's going to hit different parts of the room. Bear this in mind, as you don't want your tropical plants to get scorched by the sun. You also need to sometimes work on your bad side. It's important to rotate your plants to promote even growth and keep all sides lookin' good!
4. Spring cleaning
Be prepared to do a little dirty work. Another way to keep your plants looking good is by dusting those leaves. Not only will they look glossier and shinier it will also help them thrive. Dust that accumulates on leaves will block light from reaching the leaves and therefore inhibiting photosynthesis (how plants obtain their food). Keep it natural. Don’t use anything you wouldn’t put on your own skin. Better yet, some plants like a shower. Kill two birds with one stone.
How do you take care of your indoor plants in spring to keep them looking good? Do you have any questions or would you like any more tips on how to prepare your plants for summer? Let us know in the comments!