quick tips

going green

care for indoor plants with essential oils

Indoor plants are unsung heroes that increase oxygen, regulate humidity, and reduce stress.

Taking care of our leafy allies with the help of essential oils can eliminate fungus and pests like aphids, fungus gnats, mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, scale, and thrips. Essential oils are a wonderful alternative to chemical treatments, and go a long way.

Houseplants are more susceptible to bugs during the colder months when plants have compromised immunity during their growth-cycle lull. On the other hand, too much moisture and too little sun during warmer months can foster molds and fungus.

The good news is that a few drops of essential oil added to regular waterings or a spray bottle can get most houseplants thriving again.

A heavy hitter for combating mold and fungus is tea tree.

Basil essential oil partnered with lemongrass will conquer aphids.

Patchouli and spearmint essential oils used singly or in combination will arrest fungus gnats in soil.

Spider mites won’t have a chance with peppermint and lemongrass.

Lavender offers a simple antifungal and antibacterial one-two punch.

On the practical side, essential oils past their shelf life (six months for citrus oils, two years for others) can be repurposed and added to water for eliminating molds and bacteria from the surfaces of old pots before new plants go in. This can be applied to both houseplants and outdoor potted patio gardens. ●

SELECTED SOURCES The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Valerie Ann Worwood ($26.95, New World Library, 2016) • “How to get rid of houseplant bugs naturally,” www.SmartGardenGuide. com • Multidimensional Aromatherapy: Clinical, Practical, and Vibrational Applications by Marlaina Donato, CA, CMT ($19.95, Ekstasis Multimedia, 2015)