1. WHEN your plant NEEDS WATER....WATER THOROUGHLY. Morning is the best time of day to water. Place your plant in your sink or tub/shower and drench the soil completely. Rinse the foliage to control dust and infestation.
2. Remove old foliage from the plant and collected on the soil. This allows for better air circulation and removes hiding places for bugs and bacteria.
3. Lightly cultivate the top soil monthly.
4. Place your plant in an area where there is light. The better the light source, the better the growth, color and development of your plant. Low light does not mean NO light.
5. Plants grow towards the light source. Rotate the plant regularly to maintain even growth on all sides.
6. Occasional pruning encourages new growth and strong stems and helps to maintain and control the size of your plant. **Cacti and Norfolk Island Pines would be the exception.**
7. Feed your plant monthly or according to the directions of your favorite houseplant fertilizer.
8. Transplant only when needed. Spread out newspapers and gently tap off the pot from the plant. Examine the root system. If it has filled the pot size, transplant up one pot size with fresh soil. Example: if your plant is in a 6" pot, move up to an 8" pot. We recommend Ecker's Own Potting Soil for best results. You can also maintain the plant in the pot it is in by pruning the roots.
9. Be on the lookout for infestation. Examine the foliage and soil carefully. Most types of infestation can be treated with a mixture of dishwashing soap and water. Mix 1 tsp. per quart of water and mist on and under the foliage as well as on top of soil. Rinse the foliage thoroughly before applying, plant should be thoroughly watered and do not place in direct sunlight after application.
10. If moving indoor plants outside for the warmer months, protect from direct sun. Plants will burn easily as people do when not protected from the sun.