How do you take care of a house plant?

Question

I bought an exotic fern for my home, but I have no idea how to care for it so i don't kill it. Can someone help? Serious people please!

Answer 1

Ferns don't like to be too dry or too wet - this can be tricky. A general guideline is when the soil is too try it will pull away from the pot , when it is too wet, you can pinch a piece of soil & squeeze water from it.

Generally, it will need watered 1-2x's /week in the winter, 2-3x's /week in the summer.

Make sure that when you water the fern, water goes all the way through the pot -if the pot is sitting in something to catch excess water, discard the extra water about 10-15minutes after watering -if you let the fern sit there it will soak up that extra water & become too wet.

Ferns can get used to direct light or indirect light -just keep it in the same place & make sure it gets some natural light -a room w/at least one window where the blinds/curtains remain open all day. And don't place it in a dark corner =)

Ferns LOVE humidity -so squirt it w/a spray bottle of plain water once or twice a day.

As long as you don't live in the desert, you can place the fern outside during the summer. Check it daily to see if it needs water -potted plants can dry out very quickly during hot spells.

When you first bring it home, it may loose a few leaves or some of the bottom leaves may turn brown -don't freak out, this can be normal (depending on the variety you chose) Ferns sometimes take a while to get used to new surroundings. As long as you haven't lost more than 1/3 of the total plant you are Ok.

Answer 2

You really need to let us know what type of fern, as some require more water than others, and some need fertiliser.

Basically give it water so that the soil isn't dry, but you don't want to flood it. Make sure that if it doesn't get indirect sunlight that it at least has sufficient fluorescent lighting.

Most potted plants love herbal teas (no honey, milk, sugar, etc - just hot water added) providing it is cool and not hot when added! Black leaf tea with no additives is also good.

Hope this helps some!

Blessings, Gypsy Queen

Answer 3

Make sure you put it where it can get lots of sun, don't put it next to teh a/c vent. and water it about 2 or 3 times a week. Also in hot humid days give it a squirt or two of water with a spray bottle to make the leafs greener.

Answer 4

Place it where it can get morning sun. Water it once or twice a week. Pick off the dead stuff and you will be fine.
Plants get used to how often you water them. Try and maintain the watering schedule and they will thrive.

Answer 5

you can buy plant food out the store, but make sure you don't over water it and don't keep it in direct sunlight. when buying plant food make sure it's compatible with the type of plant you have.