Straight answers to common questions
We have compiled the questions we hear most often from first-time indoor botanists.
You test the soil, not a schedule. Push your finger two inches into the dirt. If it feels dry, it's usually time to water. If it feels moist, wait. Different plants have different thresholds, but this is the safest baseline.
It means the plant is close to a sunny window, but the sun's rays aren't physically touching the leaves. Think of a spot where you could comfortably read a book without turning on a lamp, but without squinting into the sun.
Brown, crispy tips usually point to a lack of humidity in the air or inconsistent watering. If the edges are soft and yellowing, it's often a sign of overwatering and root distress.
Yes, but only during their active growing season (usually spring and summer). Potted plants eventually deplete the nutrients in their soil, so adding a balanced liquid fertilizer restores what they need to build new leaves.
Only when the roots are tightly bound and circling the bottom of the pot, or when water drains out instantly without soaking in. Usually, this happens every 1-2 years. Always repot into a container only 1-2 inches wider than the current one.
Many common houseplants, including Pothos, Monstera, and Philodendron, are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Safe alternatives include Spider Plants, Calatheas, and Boston Ferns. Always cross-reference with an official veterinary database before bringing a plant home.