Dried-out roots are a hidden problem that affects succulents. It’s always a shock when your rosy Esherveria or dainty Haworthia die or snap out of their pot! So, why on earth would a succulent that is otherwise plump and juicy allow its roots to dry out when it clearly has enough water in the rest…
What’s the best potting medium for the feisty tropical Monstera? They love the heat and need well-draining soil. It’s not so different from cacti, so it might seem tempting to use a cactus blend. But even though they share similarities, there are many reasons why this is a bad idea. Let’s take a look! Cactus…
Francis Masson decided that the flower he discovered was beautiful enough for a queen to admire. He was a Scottish botanist who traveled to Africa searching for new plants in the 18th century. Francis discovered Strelitzia in the southern part of the continent. Also known as Bird of Paradise because the flowers resemble a flamingo’s…
The sprawling leaves of the Monstera are a tropical delight for any home. What about the roots? Do these enticing tropicals require space to spread their roots as well? And what if they don’t get enough space? If left in the same pot for too long, Monstera will become root-bound. Symptoms include the presence of…
The Monstera is most active in the summer, with a burst of new growth from top to bottom. The question is, with all this vigor, is summer the right time to repot a Monstera? Is it better to postpone it until the spring or fall? What if your plant is sick or your pot is…
A drooping Caladium is a depressing sight. However, this indoor superstar’s flashy, brightly variegated leaves deserve to be on full display during their short season of growth. Water your drooping Caladium thoroughly, as dehydration is the most likely cause. Low humidity and poor water quality both play a role. Temperature stress, too much light, disease,…
As a plant parent, I’m always worried about giving my plants enough light, especially the ones that prefer hot climates, such as Anthuriums. So when I purchased my first Anthurium, I immediately placed it in my front sunroom, where it could absorb the morning rays coming through the windows. Imagine my horror when the leaves…
The Swiss cheese plant AKA Monstera deliciosa is an evergreen plant with large leaves adorned with unusual slits. For this reason, it has become a favorite of both novice and seasoned plant growers alike. There are, however, times when the lush leaves turn yellow and start to fade. So the Swiss cheese plant tells its…
The Dracaena family of plants, including the Corn plant and the Dragon Tree, is hardy and resilient. However, plants can be as unpredictable as any other living thing. Their sudden illness and death can shock their caretakers. Dracaena varieties are particularly vulnerable to over-watering, which can result in death. Therefore, they must dry completely in…
The dramatic, heart-shaped leaves of an elephant ear in full bloom are a sight to behold. So it’s a huge letdown when your elephant ear bulb doesn’t grow for no apparent reason. The bulb may be sitting in the growing medium doing nothing, if not mocking your eagerness to see any sign of life. But,…