Youth Garden : How to Adopt Garden Plants for Healthier Environment
By Obiabin Onukwugha
Have you ever experienced the joy of having to plug vegies at your garden to cook, or sitting out in the afternoon just to have a feel of nature.
Plants and food crops add aesthetic beauty to the environment and the breath of its freshness it’s something out of the world.
Whether you are living in a rented apartment or your personal home, garden plants can build a healthy environment for you. Remember plants they provide the oxygen and serve as carbon sequester.
First, it’s important to choose the right plant for your space. Consider factors like the amount of light you have, the temperature, and the level of care required.
ChoOsing the right lighting: The next step is to chose the position that gives the plant the right amount of light. Most indoor plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Where that is the case, place your plants in a position where they can get enough light without being exposed to direct sunlight.
Watering: This is a crucial aspect of plant care. It is important to strike a balance between under watering and over watering your plants. Knowing the right time to water your plant, whether flowers per food ceops is key and essential to achieving a blossoming garden.
Choose the right plant: Different plants have different light, water, and temperature requirements. Make sure to pick a plant that suits your environment.
Soil: Use well-draining soil that retains moisture but doesn’t get waterlogged. You can design your sacks or cans so they become well ventilated. Adding organic matter like compost can also improve soil quality.
Fertilizing: Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer, where the soil is not fertile enough. It is however important to control the level of fertilizer ands of it is for food crops so that it can give you and your family the desired natural nutrients.
Pruning: Regularly prune your plants to remove dead or diseased leaves. This promotes healthy growth. It also helps maintain a desirable shape.
Humidity: Some plants thrive in higher humidity levels. Mist them with water or place a tray of water near them to increase humidity.
Pests: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, spider mites, caterpillars and mealybugs. Use organic pest control methods or consult a professional if needed.
Propagation: Expand your plant collection by propagating your existing plants. Many plants can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing root clumps.
Repotting: As plants grow, they may outgrow their pots. Re-pot them into a slightly larger container with fresh soil to provide more space for root growth, where necessary.
Temperature: Most indoor plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid placing them in drafty areas or near heating/cooling vents.
Pet-friendly plants: If you have pets, choose plants that are non-toxic to them. Some popular pet-friendly options include spider plants, Boston ferns, and Areca palms.
Research: Each plant has its own specific care requirements. Take the time to research the needs of your plants to ensure their well-being.
Lastly, pay attention to your plants’ behavior. Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth can be signs of problems that need to be addressed.