Understand your plant's light needs: Some plants thrive in bright, indirect light (like near a window with filtered sunlight), while others prefer low light conditions.

Bright, indirect light: Plants like succulents, fiddle-leaf figs, and peace lilies need plenty of light but not direct sunlight.

Low light: Snake plants, pothos, and ZZ plants can tolerate low light, making them great for darker corners.

Signs of too little light: Pale leaves, slow growth, and leggy stems stretching toward the light.

Signs of too much light: Brown, scorched leaf edges or crispy leaves.

Know your plant’s watering needs: Different plants require different levels of moisture. Overwatering is one of the most common causes of indoor plant death.

Succulents and cacti need infrequent watering—only when the soil is completely dry.

Tropical plants like ferns or peace lilies prefer consistently moist soil but not soggy.

Watering frequency: A general rule is to water most indoor plants when the soil feels dry. However, always check the specific needs of your plant.

Drainage: Make sure your pots have drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can cause root rot. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes, add some rocks or pebbles at the bottom to help with excess water.

Use the right soil: Indoor plants need well-draining soil. Use a general indoor plant potting mix, or choose specific mixes for certain types of plants:

Cacti and succulents: Use a cactus/succulent mix, which is fast-draining and airy.

Orchids: Use an orchid mix that contains bark to allow airflow to the roots.

Repotting: Repot plants when they outgrow their containers, usually every 1-2 years, or if you see roots growing out of the drainage holes.

Fertilize during the growing season: Most indoor plants grow actively in spring and summer. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.

Skip fertilizer in the winter: Plants usually go dormant or slow down, so they don’t need additional nutrients.

Prune dead or yellowing leaves: Regularly remove dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy and encourage new growth.

Rotate your plants: Indoor plants often grow toward the light. Rotating them every few weeks ensures even growth and prevents leaning.

Dust the leaves: Dust can accumulate on leaves and block sunlight. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth to keep them clean and allow for better photosynthesis.

Common houseplant pests include spider mites, aphids, fungus gnats, and mealybugs.

Prevention: Inspect new plants before bringing them home. Ensure your plants aren’t stressed by improper light or watering, as weak plants are more prone to pests.

Treatment: Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or wipe down leaves with a solution of water and mild dish soap to remove pests. Quarantine infested plants to prevent spreading.

Most houseplants prefer temperatures between 65°F - 75°F (18°C - 24°C). Keep plants away from cold drafts, air conditioners, and direct heat sources like radiators or heaters.

Signs of temperature stress: Leaves turning yellow or brown can indicate exposure to cold drafts or heat stress.

Match plants to their true preference: full sun (6+ hrs), part sun (3–6 hrs), shade (under 3 hrs).

Observe how light shifts across seasons — spring sun can turn into deep summer shade.

Avoid planting sun-loving perennials in areas with afternoon shade.

Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root growth.

Most perennials prefer 1" of water per week (rain + watering).

Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal issues.

New plantings need consistent moisture for the first 4–6 weeks.

Use well-draining soil; amend with compost rather than heavy bagged soil.

Perennials thrive in nutrient-rich, organic matter, not strong fertilizer.

Fertilize lightly in early spring with a slow-release, balanced formula.

Top-dress with compost annually to build long-term soil health.

Remove spent blooms (“deadheading”) to encourage more flowering.

Cut back dead stems in late winter or early spring—not fall—to support wildlife.

Divide crowded perennials every 2–4 years to boost vigor.

Mulch 2–3" around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Prioritize prevention: healthy soil + proper watering = fewer pest problems.

Inspect weekly for aphids, caterpillars, slugs, and fungal issues.

Use organic controls first: neem oil, insecticidal soap, beer traps for slugs, or hand-picking.

Encourage beneficial insects by leaving leaf litter, planting natives, and avoiding harsh chemicals.

Choose plants hardy to your zone (Zone 7b for Ellicott City/Catonsville).

Mulch roots before winter freezes to protect crowns.

Most perennials sleep in winter, creep in year two, and leap in year three — growth takes time.

Protect tender new growth from late frosts with cloth or overturned pots.