Plantcraft Design Ltd

General maintenance

Watering is the first thing most people think about when considering indoor plant maintenance. It is the most important factor, but not the only one, when it comes to keeping plants looking their best. Generally, overwatering is far more common than underwatering, and does more harm to interior plants than it would outdoors

Dusting and polishing of indoor plant displays makes all the difference between the plants looking just “ok”,  or looking beautiful. It can be time consuming, but it is time well spent. The result is immediate, and visible. Tired looking plants become attractive, vibrant, and eye catching

Pests and diseases occasionally cause problems with interior planting. In most cases, good hygiene will reduce or eliminate the problem. Affected leaves and stems should be removed, and nothing left lying around the top of the pot. Frequent spraying with water, or washing down of the whole plant, will knock out most pests. Chemicals are not usually required for indoor plants, and anyway would not be permissible in the office or work environment

Air quality, light levels, and temperature all affect the ability of plants to thrive. Where conditions are right, a wider selection of plants can be chosen and expected to do well. However most people are surprised at how well properly selected and cared for plants can survive even in quite low light

Pruning and trimming are essential for most indoor plants to keep them tidy and in shape. Removal of dead leaves and twigs keep the plants looking fresh and reduces the potential for pests and diseases. General trimming to keep plants in shape is a routine part of ongoing maintenance. Vigorous plants will also require pruning to prevent them outgrowing the available space, particularly in a crowded office area

Feeding indoor plants is an area where many people fall into one of two categories; Those who are killing with kindness, and those who neglect. A middle of the road approach is best, and the aim should be to keep the plants healthy, but not to encourage fast, weak, growth