Happy Friday!

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:

• Different Mediums for Plant Propagation

• 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.

Different Mediums for Plant Propagation

Whether you are a beginner or seasoned plant parent, understanding the various mediums for propagating your houseplants is important for successful plant growth and expansion. This short article will explore four popular mediums: water, soil, perlite, and LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate).

💧 Water Propagation:

Water propagation is a popular and accessible method for propagating plants. It involves placing plant cuttings in water, allowing them to develop roots before transferring them to soil. Water serves as a medium to encourage root growth and provide hydration. Remember to change the water regularly to maintain oxygen levels and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

🌱 Soil Propagation:

Soil propagation is a method where cuttings are directly planted into a suitable potting mix. A well-draining mix consisting of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is commonly used. Soil provides nutrients and stability, allowing plants to establish roots and grow. This medium is ideal for plants that prefer a slightly drier environment or those with more substantial root systems.

🌿 Perlite Propagation:

Perlite is a lightweight volcanic rock material that is frequently used as a propagation medium. Its unique structure allows for great aeration and drainage while retaining some moisture. When used alone or mixed with soil, perlite prevents compaction and promotes root development. It is particularly beneficial for plants that require well-draining conditions.

🌱 LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) Propagation:

LECA is a popular medium in hydroponics and indoor gardening. These expanded clay balls provide great aeration and moisture retention while preventing waterlogging. LECA offers great stability and promotes healthy root growth. You can place plant cuttings directly into LECA or use it as a transitional medium before transferring them to soil.

Experimentation and observation are key when selecting the right propagation medium for your plants. Each plant species has unique preferences, and finding the perfect match will contribute to their overall health and well-being.

Remember to provide a nurturing environment by maintaining appropriate light levels, temperature, and humidity during the propagation process. Regularly monitor the moisture levels in your chosen medium to prevent overwatering or drying out.

Plant Spotlight

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

This week’s Plant Spotlight is the calathea.

Calathea’s have a reputation as being a difficult plant and not beginner friendly, however, with the right knowledge you do not need to be scared of this plant! These stunning foliage plants are known for their vibrant patterns and unique characteristics, including their movement throughout the day as they adjust to the sunlight. Below are some helpful tips about basic care for your calathea.

1. Lighting: Calatheas thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate leaves. Place your calathea near a window with filtered light or provide gentle artificial lighting.

2. Temperature and Humidity: Calatheas prefer a warmer and more humid environment. Aim to keep the temperature between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Regular misting, a pebble tray, or placing it near other plants can help maintain the necessary humidity levels.

3. Watering: Calatheas prefer consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Avoid using chlorinated water, as it can harm the sensitive foliage. Filtered or distilled water is ideal. Alternatively, you can leave tap water to sit out overnight to let the chlorine evaporate before watering your calathea.

4. Soil and Fertilization: Calatheas thrive in well-draining soil that retains moisture. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil works well. Feed your Calathea with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth.

5. Pruning and Maintenance: Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's health and appearance. Regularly dust the leaves using a soft cloth to allow them to breathe and photosynthesize more effectively.

Finally, it is important to keep in mind that each Calathea variety has its unique care requirements, so it's always good to research specific instructions for the type you have.

Ask PlantsofK

Submit your questions about plant care for a chance to have your question and an answer featured in future PlantsofK newsletters! Simply click ‘respond’ to this email with your question.

As Seen on TikTok

@plantsofk93

I potted my fittonia cuttings that I've been propagating for the past couple of months! I will share updates on how they do 🌱🪴 #planttok #... See more

I transferred my fittonia cuttings to soil! Check out the products I use in the link below!

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!