GARDEN ADVICE
Why won’t my plant bloom? Nothing is as disappointing to house plant hobbyists than a beautiful plant that just won’t seem to bloom! Starting with the soil, make sure it has plenty of nutrients. Eventually your plant will use up the available nutrients in the soil. Be sure to replenish the soil with a granular or liquid fertilizer on a regular basis. Ensure you have a regular watering schedule consistent to that plant’s specific needs. Tropicals like African Violets and Peace Lillies enjoy consistently moist soil; whereas, succulents and cacti need periods of dry in between watering. So if the soil is good that means… Lighting! The main culprit of no blooms is usually a lack of natural or supplemental light. Many tropicals need bright indirect light in order to bloom. Direct light may scorch foliage so finding the right balance is key! For your cacti and succulents you will want to place them in areas with bright indirect light or bright direct light if it is acclimated. Even cacti and succulents can get sunburnt! Use cloudy days to gently transition your cacti and succulents to a new sunnier location. Not sure if your plant is getting the right light? Pick up a Light Meter from your local garden center or hardware store. If your home or office doesn’t have enough natural
20 HOME RIVER VALLEY
lighting, adding a wide spectrum LED may be the solution. Providing all colors of the spectrum is important for growing healthy foliage. In order to promote blooms you will want a bulb with strong red wavelengths. Once all of those things are in check you should see healthy, happy blooms! For more information on Kiwi's Garden Center, find them at: 100 N First Ave Evansville, IN https://www.kiwisgardencenter.com/ (812) 790-5494 And on Facebook @kiwisgardencenter
