What are some good tips to take care of houseplants?

Question

I recently got a plant, an alocasia polly, and I want to know good ways to care for it. I am fairly new to plant care, but I am open to try things. All suggestions are appreciated.

Answer 1

I don't find your plant listed so I'm not sure what it is, but a general rule for any house plant is to re-create it's native habitat as closely as possible. House plants suffer in our artificial environment if not pampered a bit. So, don't put it in a place where it gets very little light, but don't put it in a sunny window either. Indirect but bright light works best. Use a good potting mix, not garden soil. Use a pot that drains well and a saucer big enough to take the excess water and let it evaporate up around the plant. Our homes are way too dry for most plants. Cactus like dry, but most plants need a little moisture. Water with lukewarm, unsoftened water. You may need to go to an outside faucet to avoid the soft water salts. Buy a liquid plant food formulated for your kind of plant. I use VF-11, one ounce to a gallon of water. Only feed once a month. Water when the top inch of the soil is dry. Over watering is one of the biggest plant killers I know. Watch for wilting or mushy stems (too much or too little water) leaves with brown spots or tips (too much fertilizer, wrong kind of fertilizer or water that is too acid/alkyline) yellowing (need a little iron or less water) If the leaves are dusty, use a fine brush or soft cloth to clean them. They breath through their leaves. You may need to wipe the leaves once or twice a year with a damp soft cloth.
Once a house plant is happy, it takes very little care and is a nice addition. Plants take in our carbon dioxide and give us back oxygen. Some actually freshen the air. I have a pothos that is about 30 years old and a split leaf phili that is about 15.
But I have lost my share along the way, so don't give up if you have a casualty. Adopt another plant and try again.
Good Luck
Earthwoman

Answer 2

I am not familiar with the plant mentioned. There is usually a care guide stuck in the dirt. If it is a tropical plant, keep in very good light and water only once a week. Don't over water as they don't like "wet feet".