Welcome to another edition of the PlantsofK weekly newsletter!

If you have already been a subscriber, I am thrilled to have you back. If you are new, I am grateful that you subscribed! Each week, I strive to bring you tips, trends, and insights to ensure your houseplants thrive and bring beauty to your living spaces.

This week’s newsletter will cover:

• 4 Habits to Prevent Root Rot

• Plant Spotlight

• Ask PlantsofK

• As Seen on TikTok

My hope is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to grow your own indoor jungle. As always, I value your feedback and input. If there's a particular topic or question you would like me to address in future editions, please don't hesitate to reach out by responding directly to this email. I am here to support you on your plant care journey, and I am excited to continue growing together.

I would love to grow this letter and reach more people interested in learning more about caring for their houseplants. If you enjoy this newsletter, share it with someone you know and help grow our community of houseplant enthusiasts. Together, we'll create beautiful and healthy indoor spaces!

Sincerely,

Kristen

Disclosure: This newsletter contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on a product link and make a purchase, I may earn a commission. This commission helps support PlantsofK at no additional cost to you and enables me to continue producing valuable content for you.

4 Habits to Prevent Root Rot

Houseplants bring life and beauty to our homes, but they also come with their own set of challenges. One common issue that plant enthusiasts face is root rot. Root rot can be a real buzzkill, but fear not! With a few simple habits, you can keep your plants healthy and thriving. Below are four key habits to help you prevent root rot in your houseplants.

1. Choose the Right Pot and Soil: The first step in preventing root rot starts with the basics - your pot and soil. Opt for pots with drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape. Using well-draining soil specifically formulated for your plant type (cactus, succulent, tropical, etc.) ensures water doesn't linger around the roots, reducing the risk of rot.

2. Water Wisely: Overwatering is a leading cause of root rot. Develop the habit of checking the soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. If it's still moist, hold off for a few days. Always remember: it's better to underwater than overwater. Use a saucer under your pot to catch excess water, but don't let your plant sit in standing water for too long.

3. Maintain Proper Drainage: While choosing a pot with drainage holes is important, it's equally crucial to ensure those holes stay clear. Over time, soil and debris can clog them up, trapping water in the pot. Routinely check and clear any blockages to maintain good drainage. You can also add a layer of rocks or charcoal at the bottom of the pot to help prevent soil from sealing off the drainage holes.

4. Prune and Inspect Regularly: Root rot often starts out of sight below the soil's surface. Regularly inspect your plant for any signs of trouble. If you notice mushy or discolored roots, it's time for action. Prune away affected areas with clean, sharp scissors or shears. Repot your plant in fresh soil and a clean pot if necessary. Catching and treating root rot early can make all the difference in saving your plant.

Preventing root rot in your houseplants doesn't have to be a daunting task. By adopting these four simple habits - choosing the right pot and soil, watering wisely, maintaining proper drainage, and regularly inspecting and pruning - you'll give your plants the best chance at a long and healthy life. A little care goes a long way in ensuring your indoor plants thrive and flourish!

Do you want more houseplant care recommendations? Check out my Pinterest board, in which I have curated tons of plant care tips and tricks! Don’t forget to give me a follow while you are there!

Plant Spotlight

Plant Spotlight highlights a new houseplant and its basic care tips.

This week’s Plant Spotlight is the Monstera Deliciosa.

The Monstera Deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is known for its iconic split leaves and tropical allure. This plant has become a favorite in homes and offices all over. Here are some essential tips for nurturing your Monstera and helping it thrive.

1. Lighting: Monstera deliciosa is an adaptable plant that can tolerate various lighting conditions. However, it thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its leaves. Aim to mimic the lighting of its natural habitat, which is beneath the canopy of larger trees.

2. Temperature and Humidity: This tropical plant prefers warmth and humidity. Keep your Monstera in a room with temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Provide humidity through regular misting, by placing a tray of water and pebbles near the plant, or keeping it grouped with other plants. A humidifier is also an excellent way to maintain the ideal moisture level.

3. Watering: The Monstera deliciosa likes its soil to be evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Make sure your pot has good drainage to prevent root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), water a bit more frequently, but reduce watering in the cooler months.

4. Soil and Fertilization: Plant your Monstera in a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil works well. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer to support healthy growth.

5. Support and Pruning: As your Monstera grows, it may benefit from a stake or moss pole for support. This encourages upward growth and larger leaves. Prune your Monstera to remove dead or yellowing leaves, which helps redirect energy for new growth.

6. Propagation: The Monstera deliciosa can be propagated through stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem with a few leaves and a node and place it in water until it develops roots, then transfer it to soil.

With a little care and attention, your Monstera will reward you with its iconic split leaves and vibrant personality.

@plantsofk93

let me save you some sorrow and dead plants... keep your plants in their nursery pot and use these no-drainage pots as cover pots! it's ea... See more

Proper drainage is SUPER important for healthy plants, but that doesn’t mean you cant use the cute houseplant pots without drainage holes! Keep your plants in their nursery pots (or repot them into a nursery pot if they need it) and use the decorative pots as cover pots. This also makes it much easier to monitor root growth. I love clear nursery pots for my plants because takes the guesswork out of watering and root growth. Click the button below to see some cute plant decor (including decorative pots) that I love!

Disclosure: This newsletter contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on a product link and make a purchase, I may earn a commission. This commission helps support PlantsofK and enables me to continue producing valuable content for you.

I am committed to providing informative and engaging content about houseplant care and community. I carefully select products and resources that I believe will be of interest and benefit to you. The inclusion of affiliate links allows me to earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

Please note that my recommendations are based on my own research and experience. I only promote products and services that I have used and found value in myself, and that I think will be valuable to you as well.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding these affiliate links or the products I recommend, please feel free to reach out. I appreciate your feedback.

Thank you for being a part of my plant care journey and for supporting my efforts to bring the joy and humor of houseplants to others!