Caring for indoor plants during the rainy season can be challenging due to increased humidity, which can create a favorable environment for pests and diseases. Here are some tips to help you care for your indoor plants and avoid pests during this time.
Regularly clean the leaves and stems of your indoor plants to remove dust and debris. Pests are more likely to settle on dirty plants, so keeping them clean will make them less attractive to insects.
Recommended Product: Shopleaf 100% Organic Leaf Cleaner
During the rainy season, indoor plants might not need as much water as they do in dry seasons. Overwatering can lead to soil moisture issues, creating a favorable environment for pests. Allow the soil to dry out slightly in between waterings.
Recommended Product: Haws The Langley Sprinkler
Make sure your pots have proper drainage holes to prevent water from stagnating, as standing water can attract pests like fungus gnats.
Recommended Product: Ecopots
Consider using natural pest repellents, such as neem oil, or insecticidal soap. These options are less harmful to plants and humans than chemical pesticides.
Recommended Product: Shopleaf Plant Care Pack
If you notice any signs of pest infestation, immediately prune the affected parts of the plant to stop the pests from spreading further.
Grow lights can be very helpful during the rainy season, especially if your indoor plants are not receiving enough natural sunlight due to overcast skies. Position the grow lights at the correct distance from your plants to avoid light burn or insufficient light coverage.
Recommended Product: Sansi Grow Lights
]]>Summer heat and increased evaporation mean your plants need more water than usual. To keep them hydrated, water your plants when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to allow water to drain correctly from the pot to prevent root rot.
How do you know if you are giving your plants the right amount of water? Take the guesswork out with our recommended plant care tools: the Haws Watering Can and Sustee Aquameter.
The Haws Watering Can is classic and stylish. It is made of durable materials and features an easy-pour design making it a reliable tool for an efficient and fun plant care routine. Its long spout allows you to water hard-to-reach plants without risking damage to their leaves.
For those who prefer a straightforward and reliable solution, the Sustee Aquameter is a handy tool that measures soil moisture levels to take the guesswork out of watering. Insert the Sustee Aquameter into the soil and wait for the color indicator to change – blue means your plant is well-watered, while white indicates it's time to water.
These two tools are perfect for both beginner and seasoned plant parents alike. Plus, they make great gifts for the plant lovers in your life. Check out our selection of Haws Watering Cans and Sustee Aquameters in-store or online, and take your plant care game to the next level this summer.
Most indoor plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. However, some plants like Sansevierias and ZZ plants can tolerate lower light conditions. If you do not have enough natural light in your space, consider investing in a grow light. Our Sansi Grow Light is available in 10w, 15w, 24w, and 36w variants, compatible with standard E27 sockets. It is a great option to ensure your plants get enough light safely without scorching their leaves during the hot summer.
In addition to watering, fertilizing your plants is crucial in keeping them healthy and vibrant. At Shopleaf Plant Studio, we offer a variety of fertilizers to meet your plant's specific needs. Our Nutricote and Multicote fertilizers are slow-release options that provide your plants with the necessary nutrients over an extended period. Our Neem Dust is an excellent choice for those looking for an organic alternative. It is made from neem tree seeds and is an effective insecticide and fungicide.
Another product that we swear by and highly recommend is the Plant Vitalizer, HB-101. This organic plant growth enhancer is made from natural plant-based ingredients, including cedar, cypress, and pine oils. It promotes root growth, increases chlorophyll production, and improves nutrient absorption. Add a few drops to your watering can, and you'll be amazed to see the difference in your plants' growth and health.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced plant parent, our fertilizer products are easy to use and will give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive. Check out our selection of fertilizers, including the Plant Vitalizer, HB-101, in-store or online, and give your plants the boost they deserve.
Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial for the health and growth of your houseplants. While the best option for increasing humidity is using a humidifier or allowing access to a natural breeze, saucers can also be helpful. Our Ecopots Display Platter 20 & 25 and Multipurpose Saucers are designed to increase the humidity around your plants, helping them to retain moisture and stay healthy. Additionally, our Venice 2 models feature a smart self-watering system that can help regulate humidity levels.
Saucers can increase humidity for plants by providing a reservoir of water at the bottom of the pot, which allows for slow evaporation and raised moisture in the air around the plant. When the plant transpires or releases water through its leaves, the moisture is trapped by the saucer and recycled back into the air around it. This creates a microclimate of increased humidity around the plant, which benefits many tropical and subtropical plants requiring higher humidity levels. While saucers can be helpful, it's important to remember that they should not be overfilled with water as this can lead to root rot. Instead, constantly monitor your plant's soil moisture levels and adjust accordingly.
Our Ecopots Multipurpose Saucers are designed specifically to work with Ecopots planters, creating a cohesive and stylish look while providing added benefits for plant health. They come in various sizes and colors to fit your plant's needs and match your theme or style.
Investing in products like our Ecopots Multipurpose Saucers is an easy and affordable way to create a better environment for your plants. Combine it with a humidifier or natural breeze, and your indoor plants will indeed thrive.
Regularly pruning and grooming your plants can keep them looking their best and prevent pests and diseases from spreading. First, remove any dead or yellowing leaves, and trim back any overgrown branches; use an organic leaf cleaner like Shopleaf 100% Organic Leaf Cleaner to keep your houseplants shiny and dust free. This 250ml all-natural solution is designed to clean your plant's leaves without masking the dirt with too much oil. Instead, it has just the right amount of oil, leaving a clean, glossy appearance. Plus, it comes with a ready-to-use microfiber towel. With the help of Shopleaf 100% Organic Leaf Cleaner, your plants will look vibrant and healthy all year round.
Summer is when pests like spider mites and mealybugs can infest your plants. Inspecting your plants regularly for any signs of problems is essential to prevent infestations. If you notice any, do not worry! Shopleaf has got you covered. Our Organic Neem Oil, available in 30ml and 50ml bottles, is an effective pest control solution that will not harm your plants or the environment. Neem oil is a natural insecticide that disrupts the life cycle of pests, preventing them from reproducing and ultimately eliminating them. You can also use our Organic Neem Oil preventatively to protect your plants from pests before they become a problem. With Shopleaf's Organic Neem Oil, you can ensure your plants stay healthy and pest-free all summer.
Neem oil is a natural, organic insecticide derived from the neem tree. It contains the active ingredient azadirachtin, which disrupts the life cycle of insects by inhibiting their feeding, mating, and reproduction. When neem oil is applied to plants, it coats the insects' bodies and blocks their feeding ability, causing them to starve. It also repels pests by interfering with their ability to detect and navigate toward the plants. As a result, neem oil is effective against a wide range of pests, including aphids, mites, whiteflies, and caterpillars, while being safe for beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs. It is biodegradable and does not leave harmful residues on the plants.
Caring for your plants during the summer can be simple. These tips can help your plants thrive and enjoy their lush greenery all season. Whether you are a seasoned plant parent or just starting your plant journey, you can always count on our curated products to help you achieve your plant care goals. From our Haws Watering Can and Sustee Aquameters for easy and precise watering to our Shopleaf 100% Organic Leaf Cleaner and Organic Neem Oil for effective pest control, we have everything you need to keep your plants healthy and happy. So confidently enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor plants this summer, knowing that Shopleaf has your back.
]]>Before you plants, make sure you check for the following things in your bathroom:
Take a mental note of these things so you can purchase the best kinds of plants for your bathroom.
Here are some common plants that people consider when decorating the bathroom. Do remember that it's still important to know how your bathroom environment is before buying:
Regarded as one of the easiest plants to take care of, Pothos needs minimal maintenance. It creates a lush atmosphere especially when the plants have grown longer. You can either place this by the sink or even hang it from a shelf.
If you have a sunny bathroom and shower frequently, you can consider bringing in a Fiddle Fig Leaf. This plant loves humidity and the heat. Having this plant around creates a great focal point to the space, especially with the size it will occupy.
What's nice about the Fern is that it can withstand the fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Just make sure to keep the soil moist at all times.
This sturdy and beautiful plant has eye-catching patterns. Your guests will surely love how unique this plant is. Since this plant can thrive in just about any kind of condition, you can leave it anywhere. But should you have bright light seeping through the windows, it will help the Evergreen bloom like a calla lilies.
This creates a great countertop piece. A lot of people who believe in feng shui actually have bamboo indoors as it is believed to bring luck! Water sparingly and remove any yellow leaves to keep it looking fresh.
6. Air Plants
Air plants are famous for being low-maintenance — they don't even need soil! Don't forget to give the plants enough light — a bathroom with bright light is preferred. Give air plants a soak in a dish of water for 12 hours every 2-3 weeks.
Which one is your favorite plant here? Do let us know and we'd love for you to share comments on how else you decorate your bathroom.
You'll first need to check the watering frequency of each plant. Luckily, most indoor plants need watering every 1-2 weeks. So if this is the case, they need a good shower (and we mean to only shower dry (or nearly dry) potting mix). After which, you'll need to drain them properly so that the potting mix is just moist but not wet. This step prevents root rot. Remember that the amount of water will still differ from plant to plant, so it's always best to feel the potting mix before watering.
There are a few things you can do which are dependent on each plant you own. Remember that each plant is different, don't think every kind of plant has the same water and humidity needs.
Prune what needs to be pruned and snip away dead leaves or buds. This way, the nutrients will go back to the plants. Clean your plants by removing dust as you want to make sure they still can photosynthesize and produce their food.
Remember this - the more light you expose a plant, the more water it needs. Since you're going to be gone long, you should move your plants a little farther from their usual spot at home. That way, you're reducing the water they need. If you want to manage the light exposure, you can even opt to use the Sansi Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb.
We certainly don't want you to come home to dead plants so keep in mind the tip we mentioned earlier - overwatering and lacking drainage can lead to root rot. If there's one tool we religiously use to check for the soil's moisture, it's sticking a Sustee. That way, you'll really prevent overwatering your precious babies.
While fertilizer helps plants grow faster, this is something you should pause on putting on your plants. Because if you fertilize your plants, it also means they will need more water. So while you're away, hold off putting any nutrients to your plants.
Follow these tips and you'll feel less anxious leaving your green babies home. Enjoy prepping your plants before your vacation. They all need a little bit of TLC from their Momma/Poppa.
]]>We listed down some essential Money Plant care tips to help you keep your money plants alive and well, so read on for good plant care luck!
]]>We listed down some essential Money Plant care tips to help you keep your money plants alive and well, so read on for good plant care luck!
One thing that’s great about money plants is its low-maintenance light requirements. They thrive best in bright and indirect lighting, so selecting a shady yet bright spot for your plant is ideal. However, don’t leave your money plant in direct sunlight to avoid scorching its leaves!
Luckily, money plants can thrive well under fluorescent lighting. It’s probably why money plants are a popular office plant (aside from bringing in luck and fortune, of course!).
When it comes to money plants, all you gotta do is hydrate it, and then move on! Money plants like to be watered in big, infrequent doses. So all you have to do is water your plant until water seeps out of the pots’ drainage holes, and then you can leave it to soak up that water for 10-14 days. You’ll know you need to water it again when 2-4 inches of the topsoil starts to crack or dry out. Just remember not to overwater your money plant to prevent root rot!
Wondering why your money plant isn’t growing anymore? Chances are your soil lacks nutrients, because as your plant grows, it sucks up the soils’ nutrients. That’s why it is important to maintain nutrient-rich soil so your plant will continue to thrive. To achieve this, find a balanced fertilizer with good drainage (aka it helps the soil absorb water at a moderate rate — not too slow, not too fast).
You can check out our All-Purpose Soil-Less Potting Mix. It’s our very own mix of enriched indoor potting mix that we use in almost all the plants we sell!
Money plants thrive best in humid and moist environments. But If you can’t guarantee that ideal environment for your money tree, no worries! We suggest putting your money tree on a tray filled with pebbles and a little bit of water (just enough to cover the pebbles). As the water evaporates, the steam will provide more humidity around your plant. You can also mist your plant for more moisture!
Lastly, avoid repotting your money plant! Once your money plant is happily established in its home, it’s best to not move it around. However, if you do need to repot it, just expect its leaves to drop a bit. But not to worry, it will eventually adjust!
Ready to care for a money plant? Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll reap the benefits of this popular house plant! It may not guarantee that you’ll be swimming in riches, but it'll definitely repay you with an abundance of greenery! Good luck!
]]>You might be here because your plants are dying, and you’re wondering why. You gave it enough water, you let it out in the sun to get some Vitamin D, you even changed the pots they’re in—but nothing seems to be working! Well, this might be the reason for your plant’s lack of life: Plants can get hungry too!
]]>Well, this might be the reason for your plant’s lack of life: Plants can get hungry too!
Like any other living thing, plants need enough nutrients to grow and thrive. Sometimes, watering and adequate sunlight may not be enough to keep your plant healthy. To get you started in preparing your plant’s meal, here is our homemade plant food recipe!
In creating homemade plant food, you need to take note of the crucial elements your plant needs. Those elements are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Usually, plants already come with these elements, and you can eventually add calcium and magnesium if your plants do well with those.
First, here are the ingredients you will need:
Add all of these ingredients to a bucket of water and give it to your plants!
Easy right? But if you want to make your plant parent life even more easy-breezy, try our Shopleaf Neem Dust for a hassle-free plant care routine. Our Neem Dust is an organic plant supplement made from Neem kernels. It is one of the best natural fertilizers in the market because of its insecticidal properties. You just simply add it in water and let the residue be soil toppers!
Let’s face it, we all wished our plants could talk so that they could ask for water when they need it and how much of it they want. Watering is an essential aspect of plant care. To simplify things, we’ve listed down 4 tips on how you can water your plants more effectively to break the cycle of the watering dilemma.
]]>To simplify things, we’ve listed down 4 tips on how you can water your plants more effectively to break the cycle of the watering dilemma. Bookmark this page to have something to look back on and to share with your plant-loving friends!
Tip #1: Water From Below
One common mistake of plant owners is that they water the soil from above, focusing on getting the exterior of the plants wet. Especially for indoor plants, watering the foliage can promote the growth of bacteria and can make your plants sick. Remember, the roots of the plants are what needs to be watered, not the leaves. You can do so by getting a bowl of water and placing the plant pot inside, and letting it sit there for a couple of minutes for it to absorb what it needs.
Tip #2: Water in the Morning
In connection with the first tip, watering your plants in the morning will give them ample time to dry if you do get their leaves wet. This would further protect your plants from getting diseases since bacteria will have a hard time propagating on drier surfaces.
Tip #3: Adjust Along the Season
Aside from plants having different water level needs, you also have to consider the season. If it is in a drier and humid environment, you might need to water more regularly and check the soil from time to time to ensure that your plant is getting enough water. You may skip days without watering again if it is a lot cooler.
Tip #4: Invest in a Foolproof System
Despite the points mentioned, plants can still be unpredictable at times. As a solution, we recommend using a plant water meter like Sustee Aquameter. This tool can help you define whether your plant needs to be watered and how much it can take as if it can talk and let you know exactly. You don’t need to be a pro gardener to keep your plants alive. Sometimes, you just need a little bit of help.
]]>In this post, learn more about your pine tree companion and help them thrive through our recommended care guide for them.
In this post, learn more about your pine tree companion and help them thrive through our recommended care guide for them.
Norfolk Island Pine Trees (Araucaria heterophylla) and Silver Pine Trees (Pinus Penderosa ) are known for their elegant and dainty appearance. Despite their name and appearance, these house plants are anything but pine. They are, in actuality, a tropical and native plant to the South Pacific, which explains why they’re a joy to have around in not only the “brr months,” but in the hot summer months as well.
Light: These pine trees prefer to grow underneath bright indirect light to direct sunlight as tropical plants—preferably the latter. It may acclimate to medium lighting or dimmer conditions for a relatively long period, but it could have a long, straggly stem and an unsatisfied plant as a result.
Water: These dwarfed pines like to keep themselves moist—but not too soggy! So, it is best to water them once every one to two weeks or when the soil is nearly dry. You would be able to tell if it is too dry by how brown and crispy the tips of its branches will be.
Soil: These houseplants would most definitely enjoy growing in a peat-based potting mixture because the mix will slowly acidify as the peat breaks down, providing a nutritious experience for the acid-loving pine trees.
Humidity: A boost of humidity is always welcome for these houseplants. To help maintain their lushness and health, you could place a humidifier nearby, squeeze it in a group of other potted plants, or mist them regularly with our Shopleaf Mister Bottle!
In this post, we’ll be exploring their secret to keeping their plants healthy and pest-free with their handy organic pest control tools! These recommended products are organic, non-toxic, and safe for kids and pets. However, please keep in mind to use these products mildly to produce a happy plant!
Neem Dust is not just an effective organic fertilizer, but it can also be used weekly as a pesticide and fungicide! It can control certain parasitic fungi and spurs the growth of combative fungi. With its systemic resistance, it prevents other diseases such as root rot, blight, and wilt.
Diatomaceous earth powder (DE Powder) is made of crushed mineral stones that will act as a barbed fence to protect your plants from crawling pests on a microscopic level. It steers them away because the powder is highly dehydrating for them. As a plus, once your leaves are coated with the DE powder, it will help your plant readily absorb more nutrients, especially when mixed with neem oil spray.
100% Organic Neem Oil is an effective leaf cleaner and an excellent solution for insects, mites, or fungi bothering your plants! This is because its active properties interfere with pests' normal life cycle, which includes feeding, molting, mating, and egg-laying. Just remember to avoid applying it when your plant is underneath direct sunlight!
]]>
Most Ficus species are evergreen. They are happy virtually in any situation that avoids direct blazing sunshine and will thrive in a spot with consistent watering schedule. When grown indoors and pruned on occasion, they grow about 6 feet tall and the trunks are braided. When grown outdoors in tropical climates, they reach up to 60 feet in height!
With many plant varieties, this perennial favorite is also trained as a bonsai. The stems of young plants are flexible and are sometimes twisted. Hunker down and learn more about Ficus species and basic plant care in growing one!
Native to southeast Asia and arguably easier to care for than its infamous relative Fiddle Leaf Fig, Ficus Elastica ‘Tineke’ has striking cream, pink, and green variegation on its thick leaves that it almost looks like a watermelon!
Shopleaf Tip: Make sure to wear gloves while pruning, because their interior milky latex sap can be irritating to your skin. The leaves are mildly toxic to humans and pets too.
Amongst all Ficus plant species, this one is the easiest to care for. They thrive best in indirect sunlight and the soil should be moist but not soggy. Also called Banana fig, this evergreen houseplant has long stems and the long leaves give the indoor tree a bushy appearance. You can keep the height shorter with yearly pruning!
Known to be a good luck plant according to Feng Shui, Rubber Plants also remove bacteria and mold spores from the air. Not only does it improve air quality, the sap of these trees in the wild can be harvested after seven years to make rubber.
They grow slower indoors, and can be kept and shaped by trimming and pruning as needed. The leaves are in the shades of dark green with maroon veins to dark reddish-brown color with green edging. It can grow up to 12” long and the trees themselves grow to 20 feet or more. The Ficus Elastica cultivars such as the ‘Black Prince’ have leathery green leaves with cream edging.
Bearing a striking resemblance to Rubber Trees, Ficus Audrey is more forgiving in nature, relatively easier to care for than Rubber Plants but equally striking. It swaps out the glossy, rich, burgundy leaves for a small, velvet and emerald one cut by light green veins. The trunk is almost white and birch-like.
When cut, the ficus leaves can release harmful sap so best to keep away from kids and pets. Always wash your hands too after pruning. The Ficus Audrey may be less finicky and more tolerant about water than other large houseplants, but it still doesn't like to be soaked too long or left too dry. Audrey prefers high levels of bright, indirect or direct sunlight and needs to be acclimated to long periods of direct sun.
Commonly referred to as the Fiddle Leaf, Ficus Lyrata has semi-lobed, large, heavily-veined leaves that is almost reminiscent of a violin. These are native to tropical parts of Africa and the tree variant can reach a height of 12 to 15m.
This Ficus variety is a great focal point in any living room and fairly fast growers.They are not demanding and can thrive in the right growing conditions: bright, filtered light and moderate amount of moisture in the soil. Don’t forget to rotate it so it will not lean on one side!
Ficus in general loves light. They thrice best in spaces with lots of bright but indirect sunlight. Some varieties, when slowly acclimated, can be placed under full sun.
Ficus plants need consistent, but moderate watering. Water evenly and thoroughly, until the water runs through the drainage holes of your pot. Our Ecopots have drainage holes that will help prevent root rot.
A ficus needs well-draining, non-acidic, fertile soil. Soil-based potting mixes should work well for this plant and provide the nutrients it needs.
Misting the leaves can provide additional ambient moisture during dry spells, with less threat of root rot. Do not let the root ball dry out and check the soil before watering.
Ever wanted to grow your Ficus family? Ficus trees are popular foliage indoor plants and they are very easy to care for. Our Ficus Starter Pack includes a different variety of textures with shiny leaves and gracefully arching branches.
Monsteras are Aroids from the family of Araceae, and some varieties like the Monstera deliciosa actually grow edible fruits if cultivated outdoors. Lively with large, luscious tropical foliage, Monsteras are also called Swiss Cheese Plants. They are most famous for varieties with slits in their holes or also known as fenestrations on their bright green, heart-shaped leaves. As houseplants, they are actually an easy-going bunch that are friendly options for both seasoned plant parents and newbies.
Read on to learn about common Monstera varieties, how to maintain them, and how to troubleshoot common Monstera issues. These are perfect for beginners and would add a tropical vibe to any place!
Known for their tall, dark green, and perforated leaves with fully enclosed fenestrations or speckled with Swiss cheese-like leaf holes that grow outward as they mature, the Monstera Deliciosa gets its name from the latin words meaning “monstrous” and “delicious.” The latter, in reference to the fruits they bear and the former in reference to the size their leaves can grow. However, both only occur outdoors or in the wilderness.
Indoors and on social media, the Monstera Deliciosa has become a notable symbol of the tropics, having decorated everything from throw pillows to aesthetic corners of home, and could very well be the most familiar of the Monstera family.
Though quite similar to the Monstera deliciosa in terms of perforation and shape, the Monstera borsigiana can be distinguished by smaller-sized leaves and faster growth. The borsigiana also climbs and twines as a vine earlier on, while the deliciosa initially has longer stems that eventually grow out as a vine over time.
In the market, the borsigiana goes for much cheaper than the deliciosa. But ultimately, a deciding factor should be the space available for the plant, as the borsigiana can be maintained with a smaller vertical space while the deliciosa needs a wider space to allow for more growth.
Monstera adansonii also has the familiar fenestrations common to the Monstera genus. These decorate the plant’s elongated leaves with Swiss cheese-like holes, but mostly do not extend outward to create the splicing common to the deliciosa variety.
The adansonii loves to climb, and grows best with the support of a stackable plant pole. Alternatively, this variety can also hang freely as a hanging plant, leaving the vine to cascade gracefully from the sides of the pot, adding a touch of the tropics to smaller spaces.
Monstera Peru, also known as karstenianum, is one of the rarer Monstera varieties. Unlike the first three discussed above, the Monster Peru doesn’t have any fenestrations and is instead distinguished by shiny, corrugated or puckered leaves. Monstera Peru are climbers in nature and grow fastest with a plant pole.
Monstera borsigiana Albo Variegata, the rarest and most sought after of its variegated kind, has the familiar perforated leaves, colored in a vibrant green and mixed with striking white that are reminiscent of its native jungle environment.
For variegated varieties, remember to choose a plant with a good balance of both green and white, as the green or chlorophyll is what helps grow and feed the plant (and keep it alive!).
Light
Native to rainforests, Monstera plants grow fastest when they get adequate amounts of light. However, they aren’t too keen on intense, direct light unless they are of the Monstera Peru variety which can be acclimated to withstand it. Because of Monstera Peru’s thicker leaves, they can take up to 3 hours of direct light.
For other varieties, it’s best to keep your Monstera where medium, indirect sun is available. Indoors, adequate light may not be available. This is when a grow light could come in handy. Learn how to choose a grow light that best suits you and your plants’ needs here.
Water
Evenly and thoroughly water Monstera plants every 1-2 weeks or when the first 2-3 inches of soil have dried out. Never allow the plant to sit in water for too long to avoid root rot. Discard any water that seeps through the drainage hole and into the catch plate.
On summer days or hot days, water more often. Learn more about our summer plant care tips here [add link].
Pro tip: Monsteras benefit from filtered water or water left out overnight before using.
Humidity
Like most tropical plants, Monsteras prefer medium to high-humid conditions if possible. If you notice crispy leaves, it's a sign that your Monstera is in need of more humidity. Use a fine mister to mist around the plant once a week or place a humidifier nearby to increase humidity indoors.
Another alternative is to create a pebble tray to gradually and consistently raise the humidity around the plant without soaking its roots in water. To do this, fill a shallow tray with water and pebbles and place the pot of your Monstera on top of the pebbles.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix, like this Super Soilless Aroid mix, is best for Monstera varieties. Better drainage allows for the water to seep out thoroughly, so as not to soak the plant’s roots for too long. You can also mix perlite or lava rocks to increase soil aeration.
Precaution
For pet owners and parents, keep your Monsteras out of reach of your pets and small children. Monstera varieties, particularly Monstera deliciosa, are toxic to cats, dogs, and even humans when consumed in large doses. Oral irritation like difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and intense burning of the mouth, tongue, and throat are some reactions that can occur.
Yellow leaf tips
Symptom: Yellow leaf tips occur when the plant is kept under the sun or light for too long.
Cause: It is also a common problem of overwatering.
Solution: Move your plant to an area with bright but indirect light, and enough shade throughout the day.
Growing Towards the Dark
Symptom: While it’s common for indoor plants to lean towards the light, Monstera plants do the opposite.
Cause: This phenomena is called “negative phototropisim” and occurs when the plant isn’t getting enough sun. New leaves grow towards the darkness, mimicking growth in the rainforest where the Monstera would naturally grow towards the shade of a tree to eventually climb its trunk.
Solution: Move your plant towards a South-facing window, where there is enough right sun in the morning, but receives less sun throughout the day.
Excessive Growth
Symptom: Your Monstera has outgrown the space or pot it’s in, whether due to the height or width of the leaves.
Cause: It’s natural for Monstera varieties, particularly the Monstera deliciosa, to grow to an enormous size in the wild with enough sunlight.
Solution: Excessive growth can be curbed by simply pruning or snipping off new growth. Toss one to two newly pruned leaves into a long glass jar or vase with water the way you would a bouquet of flowers, to add a touch of green to a less permanent space around the house (like the bathroom or your bedside table)
Drooping plant, wilting, or dry leaves
Symptom: Wilting plant, dry potting mix
Cause: Underwatered or pot-bound
Solution: Water the plant once a week or when the first 2-3 inches of the soil are dry. Monstera varieties can’t take dry soil for prolonged periods, so it’s best to catch it before it dries out. An aquameter is a nifty device that notifies you when it’s time to water your plant, without the trouble of constantly digging your fingers into the soil to check.
Few Fenestration on leaves
Signs: Fenestration begins when the plant is about 3 feet tall.
Solution: To encourage fenestration and growth, prune off older leaves that grow closer to the base of the plant
Now that you’ve had your crash course on the Monstera genus, it’s time to add one (or more!) of these prized plants to your collection. Did we miss any of your questions? Don’t fret! Feel free to get in touch with us on Instagram or Facebook for a personalized consultation.
]]>To help you out, we’ve rounded up a list of 10 common indoor plant problems and how to address them. Read on and bookmark this page, because this guide will come in handy for both seasoned and newbie plant parents.
The Symptoms: Yellowing on new growth or on more leaves than normal.
The Solution: Yellowing on ageing leaves is a natural occurrence. However, when new growth starts turning yellow, it’s a sign that your plant isn’t getting enough sun or too much sun . To combat the former, find a spot in your house that gets enough morning sun. A South-facing window would be best. If space indoors isn’t available, take time to bring your plants outdoors several times a week or invest in a grow light for indoor plants.
If adequate sunlight isn’t the culprit, then the problem might be related to overwatering and poor drainage. This can eventually lead to root rot, if not addressed properly (more on that later!). Set up a watering schedule that allows enough time for the top two inches of soil dry out before watering thoroughly. It would help to also keep your plant in a pot with drainage holes, to allow for the water to drip out of the pot and not sit at the bottom to soak the roots too long. Don’t forget to throw the water from the catch plate!
The Symptoms: Browning leaves, dry soil
The Solution: Browning leaves can be a sign that your plant is drying out too much in between watering, summer heat stress a sign of dry air. Most indoor and tropical plants prefer humid temperatures, which aren’t always conducive to the inside of our homes. A regular spritzing schedule can solve both problems, but if you aren’t too keen on misting around your house often.
There are two tricks that may help: First, group tropical plants together as these plants help improve humidity around each other. Second, place your pot with a drainage hole on top of a pebble tray with water. The water will eventually evaporate and will help make the air around your plant more humid.
The Symptoms: Yellowing, brown, or discolored leaves even after troubleshooting with the above suggestions can be a sign that your plant is suffering from root rot. Other symptoms include a soft, mushy and brown stems or plant wilting.
The Solution: Root rot is caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or both. Prevention is better than the cure, so to avoid root rot, make sure you adhere to a watering schedule that allows your plant to dry out just enough. Another preventive measure is to choose a pot with drainage holes, so the water doesn’t sit at the bottom of the pot for too long.
Carefully check the roots by tilting the pot over. Your plant should slide right out just enough to get a good look at the roots. If the roots are indeed mushy and rotting, carefully remove your plant from the pot and wash off the old soil. Trim any rotten roots. If you remove a significant amount of roots, you might also need to prune some leaves of the plant to encourage new root growth. Re-pot the plant in a clean and dry pot with fresh soil.
The Symptoms: Leaves shedding occasional is a natural process as the plant ages, especially if the plant is moved around often. However, if new foliage drops frequently, that’s when you should take notice.
The Solution: Dropping leaves is a tricky plant problem caused by several factors, including low humidity, over watering, or under watering. This can also be caused by an overgrown plant living in a small pot (in which case, repotting to a larger pot would fix the problem), or even extremely hot or cold temperatures (or a sudden change in temperature surrounding the plant).
Create a watering schedule that allows enough time between each watering for two inches of soil to dry out. If humidity is an issue, it’s nothing misting or a pebble tray can’t fix. Lastly, you might want to reconsider the plant’s placement in the home. Is it placed in an air-conditioned room, or maybe it was placed near an appliance that overheats? Place the plant in a neutral space with enough direct or indirect sunlight, whichever is more conducive to its plant type.
The Symptoms: Leggy plants are characterized by long stems with sparse foliage and little to no flowers, often seen with seedlings.
The Solution: Light, and adequate amounts of it! Your plant generates energy from light through photosynthesis to create bigger foliage or grow flowers. Research your plant to find out just how much light it needs, then move it towards a well-lit spot with enough sunlight, or invest in a grow light. Learn more about grow lights here with a guide on how to choose the best grow light for your space and plant needs.
Pruning leggy plants with heavy leaves on top, especially on herbs like basil, can cultivate growth and redistribute the plant’s energy. Eventually, the plant will grow a sturdier stalk and stunted leaves will grow bigger.
The Symptoms: Is your plant leaning towards a light source, maybe a window, or is it lopsided because of how it’s growing in the pot?
The Solution: If you answered yes to the former, your plant is stretching towards a light source because it isn’t getting enough sun. Find a spot indoors near a south-facing window to place your plant. If a space isn’t an option indoors, consider bringing your plant outdoors a couple times a week or purchase a grow light.
The latter can be solved by propping up the plant with a rock, tying it to a support beam, or a more attractive solution could be using a stackable plant pole for it to lean on. Consider rotating your plant every few hours to make sure it gets equal amount of light!
The Symptoms: The leaves are either drooping, curling, or the entire plant is falling forward and in worse cases, wilting.
The Solution: Drooping leaves is a result of under watering. In most cases, a thorough watering will bring your plant’s leaves right back up in a few minutes. If the plant goes through prolonged droughts or low humidity, your plant’s leaves will eventually turn yellow, leaf edges will curl, or leaves might start falling off. If you have trouble setting up a watering schedule for your plant, a water meter can be useful in monitoring your plant’s moisture and humidity.
The Symptoms: Both young and mature leaves are a light green, almost yellow shade paired with stunted growth. Some leaves can also curl and accompanying flowers are small, and light-colored.
The Solution: Nutrient deficiency might be the cause of a plant with stunted growth and discolored or yellowing leaves. Three essential nutrients that cause nutrient deficiency in plants are nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Look for a fertilizer rich in these nutrients. Follow instructions closely on store-bought fertilizers as too much fertilizer can cause burnet leaf edges. An organic, home remedy is to add used coffee grounds to the soil of your plant to boost nitrogen content. Find organic fertilizer best fit for your plant’s needs at our shop!
The Symptoms: Leaf spots can manifest in various shapes, sizes, and colors ranging from large brown spots that start in the middle of the plant to small, speckled dots.
The Solution: Spots on plant leaves usually indicate some form of bacterial, fungal, or viral disease and even insects. The quick solution would be to remove dead, dying, or diseased leaves from the plant immediately to prevent the disease from spreading to the rest of the plant.
Next, separate the plant from other plants, and keep it in a well-ventilated and well-lit space. More serious leaf spotting might call for disease specific treatment. Remember to always water at the base of the plant and not on the leaves.
The Symptoms: The plant looks healthy enough, but the flowers just aren’t blooming
The Solution: First, check to see if your plant is meant to bloom at the time of the year you want it to bloom. Next, check that your plant is receiving adequate light, water, humidity, and the soil is rich in organic matter (a good potting mix will come in handy!). A little pruning of leaves and stems can help cultivate growth, but not to be overdone as this can cause stress on the plant, too!
Did we miss anything? Feel free to get in touch from Monday - Sunday, 8AM - 5PM on our social media accounts or on Instagram Stories. We’re happy to virtually assist you on your plant journey!
]]>
A grow light is an artificial light source that attempts to mimic the spectrum of light produced by the sun. While some indoor plants can survive in low light, light-loving plants like the fiddle leaf fig, bonsai, succulents, herbs, vegetables, flowers like chrysanthemums, and microgreens will not. If your space doesn’t have enough light to fit the needs of your plants, that can explain a lot of plant issues and even why your plants don’t live too long.
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a grow light, because they come in various shapes, sizes, types, and offer various color, brightness, and bulb options. Making the choice can get overwhelming, but that’s what this guide is for. Let’s take it step by step, shall we?
First thing’s first: Evaluate which plants need to be kept under the grow light by taking note of how much light each plant needs daily. Which plants will need full light? Prioritize those first. Second, where will you keep your plants and grow light? Find a dedicated space where your selected plants can stay permanently or visit occasionally. Once you’ve answered those two questions, it’s time to go through the five factors to consider before you buy your first grow light: Type, color, brightness, placement, and duration.
Most commonly, grow lights come in 2 types: Light Emitting Diode (LED) and Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL). LED is the most common and modern type available. Like your LED house lights, LED grow lights cost more upfront, but last longer, are more powerful, and are cost efficient. On the other hand, some traditional gardeners still prefer fluorescents as they’re cheaper, but are still bright enough to get the job done. Among the fluorescents, T5s are the best fluorescent choice as they are brighter and more effective. However, T8s are the cheaper option that are almost as good.
The color temperature of your grow light refers to the scale of light it radiates. For example, an office setting would have a cooler color temperature, while your dining room would have a warmer color temperature. Grow lights come in blue, red, or full spectrum.
Cool blue grow lights are at around 4000 Kelvins and are used to regulate plant growth during the vegetative stage, when growing stems and foliage is important. This is used mostly for seedlings and microgreens. In excess, blue lights can cause stunted growth in plants.
Warm red grow lights start at around 3000 Kelvins and are used to stimulate growth in vegetables and flowering plants. In excess, red lights can cause leggy plants.
Full-spectrum or broad spectrum lights have a Kelvin rating range of 5000 to 6500K. They best resemble natural daylight and give the best of both blue and red lights. They are used for growing houseplants and seedlings indoors, and don’t cause eye strain the way blue or red lights would.
The wattage of your grow light doesn’t indicate how bright it will be, because watts indicate the rate at which electrical power is used. Instead, check the light’s lumens or measure of visible light emitted. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light is. For example, a 6 Watt LED light and an 8 to 9 Watt fluorescent light both emit 450 lumens, but the LED light will use less power and generate less heat.
If your plant requires full sun, the equivalent lumens is around 2000 to 3000 lumens.
The spacing between your grow light and your plant varies depending on the type of grow light and the space available. Most manufacturers already mention on the packaging the spacing and distance guides of their grow lights.
Generally, LED lights and fluorescent lights emit less heat, so they can be placed 6-12 inches above plants. However, keep in mind that the stronger the light, the more space is needed between the plant and light. The placement of the light also depends on the size of the plant and the plant’s light requirement. In most cases, the height of the grow light adjusts as the plant grows. This is where an adjustable floor lamp could come in handy, especially if you don’t have a lot of overhead space available.
How long you keep your grow lights on depends on the light requirement of your plant. Most house plants are happiest with 6 to 12 hours of light daily, so gardeners recommend keeping your lights on for 8 to 10 hours. This is where the cost and energy efficiency of LED grow lights come in handy.
Did we miss anything? Don’t fret, our friendly customer support will be happy to help you out. Read on for some quick FAQs we might be able to answer right now.
The short answer is that your regular 45 or 60 watt incandescent light bulb or LED equivalent is not strong enough to support plant growth indoors, especially if the plant is light-loving.
Grow lights come in various price points, so it won’t be much trouble finding one that fits right into your budget. To get the most bang for your buck, go with a long-lasting and energy-saving option, like LEDs.
Grow lights are best used when seedlings are above the soil, so the plant can photosynthesize better. Some gardeners recommend heat mats placed under seed starting trays and to use your grow light as soon as a seedling peaks out.
Research! Find out whether your plant likes full light, bright and indirect light, shade plants. A rough guide is about 6 to 8 hours for shade plants, 10 to 12 for bright, indirect light-loving plants, and 14 to 20 hours for full light-loving plants. Purdue also provides a guide for some plants, for easy reference.
Grow lights can burn and even kill your plants with too much exposure, similar to leaving your plants out under the sun for too long. Set a timer or alarm to make sure you don’t forget your plants and know how much light they can take.
At high enough intensity or prolonged exposure, yes! Like plants, humans can get sunburnt from grow lights, too. Ultraviolet, blue light, and infrared light can also harm your eyes.
Now that you have a good idea of what to look for in your grow lights, we’d like to introduce you to our beginner-friendly Sansi Grow Light. A gift to your indoor plants, the Sansi grow light is a full spectrum LED light that fits right into an E27 lamp socket or base. All you need to do is pop it into an available base and you’re ready to grow!
We love it for all these other reasons, too!
A single SANSI grow light can cover an area of up to 3.6 square feet. Keep it mounted 12 to 39 inches above your plants for 10 to 12 hours, depending on your plant needs. If you don’t have a mount available, this custom-made Shopleaf Floor Lamp is the perfect fit. Plus, it has an adjustable height and flexible neck, so you can direct light where it’s needed. The floor lamp is also made with sustainable materials that allow us to produce without leaving much of a footprint.
To learn more about the Sansi Grow Light and the Shopleaf Floor Lamp, get in touch with our customer support or visit the product page.
]]>
Being close to nature can also reduce stress, boost immunity, improve disposition, and can even help patients recover from injury more quickly. The effects of nature’s qualities on health are not only spiritual and emotional, but physical and neurological. Clearly, nature calls to something deep in us. Plants easily make us happy. But what happens when we can’t keep them alive and happy?
We’ve narrowed down important ingredients in keeping your plant alive indoors. From water to light, from humidity to soil, we have weeded out the top factors to consider and best tips for healthy and happy plants!
You don’t want to cause death by H20 aka overwatering your plants (even succulents die from overwatering and we can attest to this!). It can lead to fungi growth, leaf spots, and root rot. One of the easiest, most impactful ways in keeping your plant alive is water properly. Here are some tips to remember!
Remember, plants have different water needs. You may also need to adjust your watering routine during summer (or depending on the season!) as plants and soil mixture get drier, faster. A great solution to prevent overwatering is Ecopots with a water reservoir. It is quite impossible to give your plant too much water with their innovative and functional system. The roots can never be soaked in water but, the soil can also suck water out of the reservoir when it needs water.
While some plants prefer more shade than sun, it is quite impossible for plants to live with no light at all. It is the life source for all vital plant functions and for plants, light is food used in photosynthesis. Always check the direction your windows are facing: south-facing windows give more bright light, east/west-facing windows give moderate light and north-facing windows give low light. Who knew that plants with brightly colored foliage need more light than others? We’ve got you covered with some light tips!
We’ve also covered in our previous article how you can give the right amount of light (no direct heat please!) for your plants during summer. Weather conditions in our country (Philippines!) are too intense and leaves can get sunburn (aka bleached foliage and wilted leaves).
Many popular houseplants are native to tropical climates and they originate from humid jungle environments. Since moisture in the air is vital in keeping the plants alive, lush, and healthy, it is essential to increase humidity for your plants especially during dry or colder months. There are plenty of signs that show your plants are suffering from low humidity: leaf curling, yellowing, bud drop, brown leaf tips, and susceptibility to pests. Here are some tips to increase humidity:
Porous soil is important. The roots absorb water and fill up the plant’s cells. In turn, it strengthens its fibers to produce strong leaves and stems. Soil also degrades over time and needs to be refreshed every so often. Adding mulch is also useful for retaining the soil moisture of your garden.
You may also need to think about a good potting mix when you repot. Don’t be scared to repot—repotting doesn’t mean you put your plant in a new planter, but it’s just changing the soil with fresh potting mix (we recommend organic ones!).There are often potting soils that are crafted with just the right nutrients for specific types of plants. We’re sharing with you a simple but straightforward way to repot your plants!
Being a plant parent is downright easy but plant care does require consistency, basic knowledge of your plant’s specific needs, and patience. All you have to remember when planting or repotting is Prep, Place, Fill, and Water.
Here are the tell-tale signs your plant needs repotting:
Every plant is different. With time and experience, you will begin to recognize the needs of individual plants and don't forget to enjoy planting to #GetYourHandsDirty!
We are on a pursuit to strengthen people’s relationship with plants as we thoughtfully source from local and international nurseries and deliver healthy fully-grown houseplants and plant kits with utmost care to every home. We hope that it brings you happiness and we are here every step of the way to help you connect with nature!
]]>Shopleaf Super Soiless Aroid Mix is our newest in-house potting medium suitable for your dear tropical houseplants!
We have taken our plant-loving nerdiness and carefully formulated this special mix of organic and inorganic ingredients such as coco peat, super compost, perlite, aged tree bark, coco cubes and neem dust! High quality ingredients to hit their optimum growth and thrive in sweet spots. You can almost smell the forest!
Available in a 6 liter bucket and 8 liter sack.
We believe in sustainability and durability that's why we partnered with Ecopots from Europe to bring you quality and beautifully designed pots made from recycled materials. Available in all of the earth-inspired colors you know and love. UV resistant, break-proof, frost resistant, and has a lifespan of over 10 years!
Plants need some cleaning too! Our 100% Organic Neem Oil is all-natural and non-toxic to humans and pets. It's an effective leaf cleaner and a great solution for insects, mites, or fungi bothering your plants. It can also be applied as a preventive measure.
Pro tip: Dilute 18-20 drops of 100% Shopleaf Organic Neem Oil in 250ml water and shake well. Do not apply if or when direct sunlight is on foliage. Use once a week.
A true collector’s piece and A Good Design Award-winning set of shears. Handmade in Japan, each piece is forged and sharpened using traditional methods so every pair is unique and has its own variations and irregularity. Our newest Hidehisa Banno Sentei Pruning Shears are designed for trimming thin branches in tight spaces.
It’s not like your any other indoor plant shears, these scissors are made to perform at high standards using Japanese high carbon steel. Hand-forged, shaped and polished, it has smaller blades with narrow tips intended for more delicate plant care and hard-to-reach areas. The shears are well-known for their ease of grip while packing force and have handle rings essential for inserting the blades’ edges onto intricate branches and stems, with a maximum stem diameter of 10mm.
Pro tip: Like all carbon steel tools and knives, these shears can rust if not cared for properly. Don’t forget to wipe them clean and dry after use. If intended to store for a long period of time, we recommend oiling them with camellia oil or vegetable oil.
Prune and trim to your heart’s content! Suited for indoor detailing and outdoor gardening, this another award-winning shears deliver the cleanest and sharpest cuts possible with its needlepoint. The shears feature an oversized handle for detailed trimming and the piercing blades were sharpened using traditional Japanese methods. No chemicals were used when coloring the handles.
Whether you’re pruning branches, roses, flowers, or houseplants, these Hidehisa Okuba Garden Scissors were made for you in creating your dream garden. Stylish, hand forged and environmentally friendly, it will definitely give you a strong, precise and clean-cut! The only shears you’ll ever need for general gardening use.
The outstanding beauty and sharpness of our latest Hidehisa products come from the combination of the highest level of craft and the selected raw materials.
All green plants require light to perform photosynthesis, during which special cells convert the energy contained in the light into sugars and in the process, plants give off oxygen. While many of you don’t always have access to the sunlight, our newest and most powerful Grow Light has advanced optimal structure made by the best in the industry, Sansi.
LEDs are great for your plants. Ours are calibrated to meet the exacting needs of indoor plants that produce full-spectrum light and ensure peak growth for whole plant growth, unlike the blue and red light that are just for vegetable and flower growth.
Say no to eyesore! Our LED mixes all spectrum for a more uniform lighting distribution and proper proportion, just like the natural sunlight. It is made from eco-friendly materials and conducts less heat which generates more savings.
Got more questions about your plants? Feel free to send us an email at sales@shopleaf.ph and we’d be happy to help! Happy gardening!
]]>