It’s Earth Day today! And that calls for a tribute to Mother Earth. The nurturer, provider and keeper. This year’s theme, ‘Invest in Our Planet’ is truly fitting since it’s the call of the hour. It makes you think and re-think about the role you play in safeguarding the planet.
If you’re looking to play your part, then remember, sustainability starts at home. And you can contribute to Earth’s well-being by simply looking after the greens around you. It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a green thumb or an occasional flair for gardening, just a few simple steps can prolong the life of your plants and in return give back to nature two-fold.
Know your plant
It’s true that plants need water and sunlight to survive. But it’s also true that too much can have adverse effects. To begin with, know the plants at home. Plants like Succulents and Pothos require minimum watering but Begonias and Impatiens need to be watered regularly. Once you’re more mindful of your plant’s needs, it’s easier to give them a longer life.
Pick the right pot
Different in shape, size and make, pots act as a catalyst in a plant’s healthy life. When choosing a pot, ensure that it has enough space for your plant to grow. Pick a pot with a diameter that’s wider than the diameter of the plant’s root mass. And double-check for drainage holes too.
Pick the right soil
Plants thrive in soil conditions that are best suited for them. It’s imperative to give them the right ingredients and for that follow some thumb rules that will aid in your plant’s longer life: Potting soil should be light and fluffy and the ingredients must include peat moss and vermiculite.
Compost waste to use as fertilizer
Yes, plants do require fertilizers but who said they can’t be made at home? Start composting at home with all your food waste to create the finest fertilizer. It’ll provide the right nutrition and keep the plant healthy throughout the year.