General Steps In Growing Indoor Tropical Plants



by Bob Delgado


Many of the most common houseplants are actually native to tropical climates, which are located near the equator. Conditions in these regions are generally warm and humid, but they can vary. Plants from these areas that have become houseplants will grow best under the care of someone who understands how their native climates affect their growth. Here are some tips about how to successfully grow tropical plants indoors.

The native climate of most tropicals has a wet season and a dry season. The growing season, when a plant sprouts new foliage and blooms, correlates with the wet season. Houseplants need more water during the humid part of the year, no matter where they are growing, to mimic the wet season.

It is extremely important not to over-water, however. Houseplants should have plenty of drainage, and they should only be watered when the top two inches of the soil has dried out. Soil that is never allowed to dry can cause the roots of a plant to rot. Different tropicals need different amounts of water, so it is necessary to figure out the needs of each specific plant.

In addition, different species will need different amounts of light. As a general rule, a plant should receive at least five hours of light per day. This should usually not be direct sunlight, as this will be too hot for most leaves. Some species will prefer direct sunlight, however, and still others will like extremely low light.

Humidity levels can make or break tropicals, because their native climate is generally more humid than the air found in most homes or other buildings. A humidity level between 40% and 80% will usually be okay. Even lower levels can be tolerated during the dry part of the year. People often use humidifiers to increase the humidity levels near tropical houseplants. Another technique is to use a spray bottle to mist the leaves of the plant every now and then.

The soil in which tropicals are planted should be of a lower density than most potting soils. Mixing in some sand can help, or pre-mixed nursery soils can be purchased. Using some fertilizer helps the plant to receive the nutrients it needs, but the soil will need flushing out sometimes to prevent salt build-up. It is also important to make sure that soil is pest-free.

In the tropics, rain regularly rinses off the leaves of a plant. This keeps pests away and prevents dirt or dust build-up that can choke a plant and keep it from getting enough sunlight. Tropicals being kept as houseplants need to be wiped clean from time to time. A damp cloth is ideal, and some mild soap can also be used for killing many pests that might be invisible to the naked eye.

It is definitely possible to grow beautiful tropical plants indoors. The best way is to learn about where the plant comes from and its favored climate. If these favorable conditions are replicated, the plant will be vibrant and healthy.




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