ADVICE STRAP
WELCOME TO PLANT PARENTHOOD A GUIDE FOR THE ROOKIE GARDENER WORDS BY ZAHRA KHADIR
Starting your urban gardening journey may seem daunting at first. But rest assured plant care does not need to be time consuming. Here is a guide that will take you through the whole process: from finding the ideal plant to how to properly nurture them.
06
LIGHT AND SPACE
REPOTTING
PLANT CARE
Plants growing in their natural habitat have different needs and the same applies to when you grow them indoors. Some thrive under the scorching sun while others prefer the shadow of a tall tree in a humid rainforest. The same applies when you keep them indoors, so considering the light levels in the room can make a big difference. If your room lacks sunshine, you should prioritise a plant that thrives in indirect sunlight. It is also possible to use mirrors to reflect the light around the room and thereby brightening up your space. The other option, if you do not have any natural light coming into your home, is to get grow lights if you are willing to spend a bit more. Make sure to check the plant’s care label to learn about its specific needs before bringing it into your home. Always keep in mind that you should choose a plant that suits the space and not a space that suits the plant.
Like any parenthood, checking up on your babies is just as essential as giving them nutrients or giving them enough attention. When first buying a plant, you might want to repot it straight away. However, it is recommended to wait until they are starting to grow and branch out of their home. If repotted straight away, it can shock your plant, and show distressed symptoms afterwards. It is also worth noting that because pots are made of different materials, from terracotta to wood, this can affect the plant’s watering needs. Before repotting your plant, make sure it is dry and the pot is the right size. It should be a couple of inches wider than the plant. This is to make sure the plant absorbs up all the water and to avoid overwatering and root rotting. Loosen the plant’s roots carefully with your hands, that way you are promoting its roots to spread a little further when you repot them into their new home.
Rotate the plants around on a regular basis so they get sunlight on all sides. Always be on the lookout for leaves that are yellowing or browning, that is when you get your scissors out and trim them. Prune to get rid of old growth. However, if they are just dusty, give them a wipe down as they will otherwise not absorb the light needed to grow. If your plant is getting droopy, it is a sign that it needs to be watered. This is a journey where you learn from your trial and errors, unique challenges can arise when growing in a small space but learning about the plants’ specific requirements will get you a long way. This journey starts with a positive outlook and a mind that is open to building your plant knowledge. You do not need to move to a bigger space or to the suburbs to get started on your gardening dreams. NODE provides you with the tools and tips to nurture the urban gardener in you.
NODE ISSUE NO. 1
NODE ISSUE NO. 1
