12 Common Plant Care Mistakes You Should Avoid

Caring for plants can be a fulfilling experience. There's something special about having vibrant, flourishing plants in your home. Their beauty and distinct characteristics can truly enhance the ambiance. However, it can be frustrating when plants don’t grow as anticipated or seem to die without explanation. These setbacks may stem from common mistakes many plant owners make. Here are some expert-recommended pitfalls to steer clear of.

Neglecting to Research Your Plant Before Buying

You may come across a plant at a nursery or a friend's house and feel the urge to get one for yourself, but it may not be the best fit for your space. According to Bliss Bendall, a certified horticulturist at NYBG, “Even if you desperately want a fiddle leaf fig, for example, if you don’t have access to bright, filtered sunlight for six to eight hours a day, the plant won’t survive,” Bendall warns.

Inconsistent Plant Care

If you’re frequently away from home or work long hours, caring for plants might not be suitable for you. “You need to know exactly how to care for your plant and make sure you are consistent in your approach. Plant care has a scientific basis, and their needs must be met for them to thrive. There’s no improvising with 90 percent of common houseplants,” explains Bendall.

This is especially important when it comes to watering, says Kaylyn Hewitt, lead floral designer at The Bouqs Co. “It’s essential to research your plant and understand its specific watering needs. Most plants require unique watering schedules, and there’s no universal solution that works for all plants.”

Using Tap Water

Tap water may be inexpensive and convenient, but it's not the best option for plants, according to Bendall. “Opt for distilled, sodium-free water, as salt buildup can be toxic to nearly all houseplants. This is an easy fix—simply purchase gallon jugs of distilled water or boil your own, and let it sit for 24 hours before using it,” Bendall advises.

Not Fertilizing Your Houseplants

“This step is often forgotten because it doesn't need to be done frequently, but don’t skip fertilizing your plants,” says Hewitt. “Set a reminder every few months to ensure you don’t forget to feed your plants.” If you’re unsure how often to fertilize a particular plant, check its recommended schedule. Remember, many houseplants should not be fertilized during winter months.

Not Considering the Direction of the Sunlight

Understanding the direction of sunlight in your home is essential, as it can affect where you place your plant. “It really makes a big difference,” Bendall says. “Southeast sunlight is not as intense as northwest, for example. You need to know where the sun will be at different times of the day.”

Lacking Patience

It's easy to become frustrated or give up on a plant if you feel like it's not growing quickly enough. But sometimes, it's a matter of not waiting long enough. According to horticulturists, 'You may pick a plant you want to stay a certain size for a specific spot, but in time, it could outgrow the area. On the other hand, some plants grow so slowly they don't fill the space as quickly as you'd like.'

Overlooking Humidity Conditions

For those living in arid or desert-like environments with low humidity, it’s crucial to consider humidity levels when selecting plants. The moisture in the air can significantly impact the long-term health of your plant, especially if it's from a tropical region.

Failing to Repot

Neglecting to repot a plant as it matures or expands can lead to serious issues. 'The soil deteriorates over time, as it breaks down and erodes. Water can also affect the soil,' explains Bendall. If the plant is left in a pot that's too small, it can become root-bound, meaning the roots run out of space to grow.',

Neglecting to Clean the Leaves

While dusting plants may seem like an inconvenient task, keeping those leaves clean is crucial for proper growth, says Bendall. 'Dust can block sunlight from reaching the leaves, which impairs photosynthesis, the process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into food.'

Placing Plants Above an Air Conditioner or Heater

If you've been placing plants on top of your air conditioner or heater, it’s time to move them and consider redecorating. 'Plants are living organisms, and temperature directly impacts their health, especially if they come from climates that are either hot or cold. You wouldn’t want to leave them in an environment that could either freeze or burn them to death,' Bendall advises.

Failing to Provide Proper Drainage for Your Houseplants

All plants require some form of drainage to stay healthy and avoid problems like root rot. The best option is to use a planter with a drainage hole, but if you’re attached to a container that lacks one, you can try adding a layer of horticultural charcoal or pebbles at the bottom. While this may help, it’s not ideal as it could still encourage root rot. However, if you’re on top of your plant's watering routine, this may work. Ultimately, it’s best to repot your plant into a container with proper drainage holes.

Ignoring Seasonal Changes

Like humans, plants have different requirements depending on the season. Some plants enter a dormant or semi-dormant state in the winter, requiring less water, fewer nutrients, or a bit of pruning. To ensure your plants stay as healthy as possible all year long, it’s important to research their specific needs for each season and adjust your care routine accordingly.