Andrea’s Path to Plants

As the outside temps warm and the days get longer here in Calgary, our attention tends to shift to the backyard. But I’m here to give you a little nudge: don’t forget about your inside plants!

Your tropicals are waking up with the longer daylight and stronger sun coming through the windows, and they need a bit more attention. Now’s the time to pot up any plants whose roots are pushing out the bottom of their containers. It’s also the right moment to give them a little extra fertilizer—and you may need to bump up their watering schedule, too. As they respond to your TLC, you’ll see new shoots and fresh growth popping up.

🪴 Potting Up: What You Need to Know

Choosing a new pot can be fun, especially if you don’t already have one on hand. Go out and grab a conversation starter: something bold that will stand out on the shelf and show off your Priscilla. Most local greenhouses have a great variety to choose from in their gift shop. Personally, I love Spruce It Up‘s selection here in YYC.

Most plant experts will tell you to pick a pot that’s only an inch or two bigger than the current one. Here’s why that matters:

1. Preventing root rot: A much larger pot holds more soil, which will retain water longer, leading to soggy roots and decreased plant health. Especially for plants that like to dry out between watering.
2. Healthy root growth: If you give a plant too much space for the roots, the growth is going to concentrate in the roots, rather than those decorative leaves and flowers you like so much.
3. Soil ‘health’: Too much soil without roots and organic matter can get compacted and your Priscilla’s roots need oxygen, too. Plus, really, why waste dirt?
4. Plant shock: Plants don’t like drastic change.This includes pot size. Have I told you about my drama mama, the peace lily?

🌿 Fertilizer: Fuel for Growth

I follow a simple rule of thumb with fertilizer: in the winter, I usually feed my plants only once every couple of months. Like me, they’re not doing much other than lying around on the couch,I mean, shelf, when it’s cold and dark.

But when the sun comes out for longer, they get more energy and need more fuel to support new growth. Stick with a general all-purpose fertilizer and move to a monthly feeding schedule – unless you have some diva plants that need a special formula.

💧 Watering: Listening to the Plant Tantrums

Like a toddler, your plants will let you know when they need something—sometimes with dramatic flair. Shriveled, crusty yellow leaves? Yep, that’s a tantrum.

Make a habit of inspecting them every so often so you can catch the signs early and adjust their watering schedule as needed. They’ll thank you with lush new growth (and slightly fewer emotional outbursts).

🌱 Conclusion: Spring Forward, Plant Style

Spring is the season of growth for all plants, inside and out! A quick refresh, a bit of new soil, and a boost in care might be all your indoor jungle needs to thrive. Take the time now, and you’ll be rewarded with vibrant, happy plants all summer long.

Happy growing!