Plant Care Basics
Overwatering a plant can cause this plant disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is a plant disease where the root system deteriorates due to anoxic conditions (lack of oxygen) in the soil or due to fungal or bacterial pathogens. It can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne pathogens, leading to root decay and nutrient uptake issues, potentially killing the plant.
This plant's foliage can range in color from dark green to dark purple.
The Wandering Sailor Plant
What does "horticulture" mean?
Horticulture is the art or practice of garden cultivation and management.
What is "pruning" and what does it do?
Pruning is the selective removal of plant parts, like branches, leaves, or buds, to manage plant growth, improve health, and shape the plant. It does this by influencing the plant's hormonal responses, redirecting resources, and enhancing overall plant vigor. Removing dead, diseased, or damaged parts prevents the spread of disease and pests, allowing the plant to focus its energy on healthy growth.
Although this plant might look tasty, looks can be deceiving. All parts of this plant are poisonous.
The False Sea Onion Plant
List some benefits of Horticulture Therapy.
Horticultural therapy offers numerous benefits, impacting physical, mental, and social well-being. It can improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive skills. Additionally, it fosters social interaction, increases self-esteem, and promotes a sense of accomplishment.
You put the plant hydrometer/moisture tester into the soil of the plant, and it shows the number 3. What does this mean?
The plant does NOT need to be watered.
Once this plant matures, it sends out long stems that bear small, star-shaped flowers.
The Spider Plant
Which of the following plants prefers/does the best in bright indirect sunlight?
a. False Sea Onion
b. Spider Plant
c. Wandering Sailor
d. Snake Plant
All of the above!
Bright indirect light for a plant means a plant receives plenty of light, but not direct sunlight. It's like the light that filters through a window with a sheer curtain, or the light in a room that has windows but the plant is a few feet away. This light is still bright enough for the plant to thrive, but it's diffused and not harsh.
True or False?
It doesn't matter what temperature water you use to water houseplants.
False
You should use water that is tepid/lukewarm/room temperature.
Using cold water to water plants, especially those that are sensitive to temperature changes like many houseplants, can cause root shock and other negative effects. Cold water can slow down root growth, nutrient uptake, and even damage root cells.
Which of the following plants are safe to have around pets?
a. Snake Plant
b. Wandering Sailor
c. Spider Plant
d. False Sea Onion
b. Wandering Sailor & c. Spider Plant
True or False?
You should give your plant plant food every time you water it.
False
Fertilizing your plant with every watering can lead to over-fertilization and potentially harm your plants.
What is plant propagation and how does it work?
Plant propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones.
This plant is one of the top ten plants most effective in removing formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air.
The Snake Plant
Plants need sunlight to perform ______________, the process that converts light energy into chemical energy for growth.
Photosynthesis