“My first plant was a ginger bonsai that I got for my 13th birthday,” said Elliot. “Since then I have received plants as gifts, picked them up at farmer’s markets and boutiques, and I love every single one of them.”
-ELLIOT STAUB
16-year old Elliot’s bedroom is filled with gorgeous plants - from tiny succulents to trailing pothos and even a giant monstera - so we just had to know how her collection got started and her best advice for taking care of so many leafy friends!
KEEPING THE PLANTS THRIVING
Elliot uses Google Calendar to keep track of her plants and their watering schedules. “I also follow a lot of plant care accounts on Instagram and TikTok,” she shared.
“My string of dolphins plant has grown so much since I have gotten it, because of that it is probably my favorite, but it’s really hard to choose!”
KEYS TO SUCCESS FOR YOUR HOUSEPLANTS
It can be daunting keeping a space of plants alive and healthy, but follow some of these easy tips to keep your plants thriving.
1. Give them the right amount of light Depending on your plant, some thrive in lower light areas versus direct sunlight. (Aspidistra elatior) or snake plant (Sansevieria), don’t mind dim corners or interiors.Others — especially blooming plants — need bright windows or supplemental fluorescent or grow lights. Research your plants to figure out the best environment for them.
2. Don’t over-water Most plants need a container with drainage holes, so water doesn’t stand around their roots and cause rotting. If you keep a saucer underneath your plants to catch drips, empty it after watering. Moisture indicator probes can be helpful for telling when your plants need attention.
3. Keep them clean If you see that your plant is accumulating dust, that is not a good sign. It can block your plant from getting the right amount of sunlight or nutrients. If you’ve got a large potted plant, wipe the leaves with a moist sponge or a dry dust cloth. Gently clean fuzzy-leaved plants, like African violets, with a soft paintbrush or toothbrush.
4. Groom when needed If you have flowering houseplants, keep the spent blooms picked to encourage more flowers. Take off dead or yellow leaves, too, and cut stems that have lost their leaves to the soil line.
5. Add Humidity If you see brown tips on the leaves of your plants, the air in your home or office is probably too dry for them. Add moisture by grouping plants together, or putting them on top of pebbles in trays or saucers filled with a little water. (Don’t let the pots touch the water so the roots don’t stay constantly wet.) You can also mist your plants or even add a humidifier.
Follow plant accounts we’re obsessed with!
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