Natalie King
Period: 8
Date: 4-23-10
EXER 2r1-houseplants
Planting Series
EarthCare Services
HOW TO CARE
FOR
HOUSEPLANTS
GROWING BASICS
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Bright light, but NOT direct sunlight
65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit with relative humidity
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Do not overwater
Soil should be a mixture of dirt, peat, sand, and
vermiculite
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Spray with water several times a day
Keep pot in a tray or damp pebbles
Good drainage
Air can circulate to roots
Feed plants with fertilizer
TYPES OF FERTILIZER
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Granulated
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Economical
Reapply every few weeks
Water soluble
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Slow-release
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Relatively expensive
Lasts several months
Rarely burns plants

Takes effect quickly
Must be applied on a
regular basis
Organic
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Slow releasing
Very safe for plants
Expensive
WATERING TIPS
Use warm water
 Water before plant wilts
 Know your plant, and water from above or below
as necessary
 Soil should be thoroughly soaked, without
overwatering
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FEATURED PLANT-THE ORCHID

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Thousands of orchid
species
Phalaenopsis is the best
indoor orchid
The Pot
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Should be free-draining
Water cannot accumulate
around roots
Light
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Moderate light
Not direct sunlight, but not
dark
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Temperature
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75 degrees Fahrenheit during
the day
55-60 degrees Fahrenheit at
night
Humidity at 50%
Water
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Depends on plant species
Depends on light