Posts tagged houseplant
The 10 Commandments of ZZ Care

Discover the timeless charm of the Zanzibar Gem, a symbol of natural beauty that graces any environment with elegance.

10 Commandments of ZZ Care

With its glossy, dark green leaves and air-purifying qualities, the ZZ plant has captured the hearts of plant lovers worldwide. To ensure your Zanzibar plant thrives and becomes a centerpiece of natural beauty, follow these 10 Commandments of ZZ Care.

Embrace lower light

Welcome your ZZ plant into your home's low-light areas with open arms. This hardy plant excels in low light conditions, making it a perfect fit for corners and rooms with minimal natural light. It also will happily grow (and grow fast!) in bright, indirect light, but avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and hinder growth.

light guide

Embrace the beauty of the no-fuss Zanzibar Gem, thriving gracefully in low light and illuminating even the dimmest corners.

With watering, less is more

Adopt a minimalist approach to watering your ZZ plant. These drought-tolerant wonders prefer to dry out between waterings as they store water in their bulbous roots. Allow the top inch of soil to become dry before giving a moderate drink. We’ll say it once and we’ll say it again: overwatering can lead to root rot, so err on the side of underwatering, especially with this plant!

Use well-draining soil

Plant your ZZ in a well-draining potting mix to ensure proper aeration and prevent waterlogging. Because the Zanzibar Gem is actually a succulent, a mix designed for succulents or cacti is ideal. This helps maintain a healthy root system and prevents moisture-related issues.

A cozy pot size

Choose a pot that provides a snug fit for your ZZ plant's roots. A slightly tight space encourages healthy growth and prevents excessive soil moisture. Repotting every few years into a slightly larger pot is sufficient.

Fertilizer, please!

Feed your ZZ plant with a well balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) 1-2 times per month. If you use our natural plant food, you may continue to fertilize your plant but reduce to just one time per month or every other month. Avoid over-fertilizing, as ZZ plants are light feeders. 

fertilizer

Nourish your Zanzibar Gem to new heights of beauty with our specialized fertilizer and watch as your ZZ flourishes for years to come!

Prune lightly

Trim brown or yellowing leaves close to the base to encourage new growth. Pruning promotes a tidy appearance and redirects energy to healthy foliage. Remember, less is more; ZZ plants have a slow growth rate, so don't be too eager with the shears.

Toxicity: handle with care

While ZZ plants are stunning, they contain compounds that can be harmful if ingested. Keep them out of reach of curious pets and children. If nibbled on, they may cause discomfort, so ensure proper placement, out of reach from curious children or pets!

Keep things temperate

Provide gentle air circulation by placing your ZZ plant in a well-ventilated area. Avoid exposing it to strong drafts, which can stress the plant. As with all plants, good airflow prevents pests and promotes overall plant health.

Give your Zanzibar Gem a spa day by gently trimming away any yellow or brown leaves to promote a healthier appearance.

Shine that foliage

The Zanzibar Gem is not an easy plant to clean, but it will love you so much more for regularly doing it! Dust off your ZZ plant's leaves every few months or so to keep them glossy and vibrant. Wipe gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve its ability to photosynthesize–bonus points if you use a soap specially crafted to clean plants and naturally repel pests. 

Patience for growth

Patience is key when it comes to caring for plants, and above all with the Zanzibar Gem! ZZ plants are slow growers, so be patient and allow them to thrive at their own pace. With time and care, your plant will reward you with its striking presence and air-purifying prowess!


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The 10 Commandments of Orchid Care

The orchid's beauty is found in its simple and graceful charm, and of course, unmistakable vibrant flowers.

  1. Lighting Requirements for Orchids

  2. Ideal Humidity Levels for Orchids

  3. Orchid Temperature Preferences

  4. Fertilizing Orchids

  5. Watering Requirements for Orchids

  6. Trimming and Pruning Your Orchid

  7. Pest Prevention

  8. Repotting Considerations for Orchids

With their exotic allure and delicate blooms, Orchids have captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts and novices around the world. Despite their reputation, many Orchid varieties can actually be very low-maintenance and highly adaptable to different environments. 

To ensure your Orchid flourishes and graces your space with its captivating beauty for years to come, follow our 10 simple commandments of general Orchid care, but don’t forget: Orchids are one of the most diverse plant families in the world, so make sure to look into your specific variety and any notable care requirements it may have!

Don’t Overlook the Lighting

Adequate lighting is vital for the well-being of an orchid, as it fuels the plant's growth, influences its blooming cycle, and ensures its overall health and vitality.

Generally speaking, Orchids are light-loving plants but prefer indirect light to avoid scorching their leaves. There are many different types of Orchids and it’s best to know the exact variety of yours and follow light requirements accordingly, as some Orchids are pickier in this regard. As a general rule of thumb, place them near a window with filtered sunlight or use sheer curtains to create a diffused light environment, and avoid direct exposure to intense midday sun, as it can damage the leaves. While some Orchids can easily adapt to medium and even low light conditions such as offices or retail settings, make sure your variety is suitable to this type of environment before placing it there!

Create a Humid Haven 

Most orchids originate from tropical regions and thrive with humid conditions. In fact, even Orchids that have adapted to live in the desert prefer some humidity. Mist your orchids regularly, especially during dry seasons or in air-conditioned environments. Alternatively, you can place them on a humidity tray filled with water or use a humidifier to maintain adequate moisture levels.

Keep Things Cozy

Like many tropical plants, Orchids can be sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Keep them away from drafts and air vents, and avoid sudden temperature changes. Most orchids prefer temperatures between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit (16-27 degrees Celsius) during the day, with a slight drop at night. They can handle extreme heat or cold if periods in these conditions are brief.

Do not Forget to Feed Your Orchid!

Orchids have unique nutritional needs, and do best when fertilized regularly throughout the year. Though it depends on the exact brand of fertilizer you’re using, fertilizing twice a month during peak growing season (spring and summer) and once a month during fall and winter is advised. 

If you’re looking for a good fertilizer for your Orchid, we recommend this Orchid food by Houseplant Resource Center, a comfortable spray that is specifically formulated for Orchids.

Water Your Orchid Wisely

Orchids like a fine balance between moisture and dryness. Depending on the environment your plant lives in, it may need watering more or less frequently. We recommend starting once a week, giving your Orchid a thorough watering, and checking the soil to see if it’s still moist before watering again. 

About 70% of Orchids are epiphytes, which means they grow on other plants rather than in soil. That’s why it is crucial to ensure your Orchid has proper drainage, and to never let it soak in water for various days. 

Easy Care Flowering Plants by Léon & George

Beautifully potted flowering plants for indoors, paired with high-quality ceramic planters. Lifetime Plant Doctor access included.

Trim and Prune with Care

Pruning is an essential aspect of orchid care, but generally speaking, it’s best to take a delicate approach and never prune away too much of your orchid at one time. 

Remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves and spent flower spikes using clean, sterilized tools to prevent the spread of diseases. Pruning encourages new growth and helps maintain the overall health and appearance of your orchid.

Are you ready to prune your orchid? Read this full guide which explains how to prune different types of orchids.

Keep an Eye Out for Pests

Orchids are susceptible to various pests, such as aphids, scale insects, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect your orchids for signs of infestation, including sticky residue, webbing, or distorted leaves. Treat any pest problems promptly– we suggested using Super Neem Oil to naturally treat an orchid with pests. Additionally, be vigilant for signs of diseases like fungal or bacterial infections and take necessary action to prevent their spread.

Remember that keeping your plant clean is the pest form of prevention! Use L’Original black olive soap, specifically designed to clean plants, to regularly wipe away dust and other build up on your orchid.

Repot Your Orchid Only When Necessary

Orchids require occasional repotting to ensure healthy root growth and provide fresh growing medium. Repot your orchids when you notice overcrowded or deteriorating roots, or every 1-2 years as a general rule. Use a well-draining orchid potting mix and provide adequate support for your plant.

Pro tip: Many orchids are sold in small plastic containers that do not have drainage. If you purchase an orchid in one of these pots or containers, be sure to immediately pot it into something with proper drainage, as this is key to keeping your orchid happy and healthy over time. 

Introduce Companions to Your Orchid

Consider grouping your orchids with other plants that have similar light and humidity requirements. This creates a microclimate that enhances moisture levels and helps maintain stable conditions. Orchids also benefit from the increased humidity created by neighboring plants.

Be Patient with Your Orchid!

Growing orchids can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor, and even more so getting them to flower multiple times throughout the year. Each orchid variety has unique care requirements, and it may take time and experimentation to find the perfect balance. Be patient, observe your plants closely, and adjust your care routine accordingly. Remember, the journey of caring for orchids is as beautiful as the flowers themselves!

Photos by @gaellemarcel and @nosova


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The Absolute Best Red Leaf Plants
top red leaf plants

Experience nature's vibrant beauty with the Red Congo’s colorful leaves that add a stunning pop of color to any space.

Growing tired of the usual green when it comes to living plants? Consider spicing things up with some vibrant red leaf plants! There are many popular houseplants that feature shades of red on their leaves, and many of these are easy to care for. Go ahead and discover something unique with the top 5 red leaf plants.

Magenta Triostar

If you’re looking for a plant with some serious personality, the Magenta Triostar is the way to go. This playful prayer plant features deep green leaves with bright magenta stripes and undersides in rich shades of red and pink. It truly appears to be painted by Mother Nature herself.

One thing to keep in mind with the Magenta Triostar is that it requires a bit more care than some other red leaf plants. It needs bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil to thrive. But with a little bit of love and attention, this plant will reward you with its stunning and unique beauty.

red-leaf-plants

Bold and beautiful, the Red Congo plant features striking dark foliage with vibrant accents of red, making it a stunning addition to any indoor jungle.

Red Congo

The Red Congo is a strikingly lush plant with deep red stems that give way to glossy green leaves. An eye-catching addition to any room, this plant is a member of the Philodendron family and is native to South America.

The Red Congo is a fast grower, making it an excellent choice for filling up empty spaces in your home or office. It also acts as an air purifier and cleans the air of harmful VOCs and other toxins.

red-leaf-plants

The King of Hearts Anthurium has heart-shaped leaves with a glossy finish, a perfect addition to any plant collection.

False Aralia

The False Aralia is a fun red leaf plant with delicate, frilly leaves in shades of deep green and burgundy. Its serrated leaves resemble a feather boa, making it a unique addition to any space. This plant is native to the Pacific Islands and requires bright, indirect light to thrive.

The False Aralia is safe for pets and requires very little upkeep over time.

King of Hearts Anthurium

The King of Hearts Anthurium is a popular flowering plant that features bright red spathes, or clusters of flowers, around its green leaves. Like a bouquet that flowers yearround, the Anthurium is ideal for someone who wants something bright and colorful as well as easy to care for. This plant is native to tropical regions of Central and South America and requires bright, indirect light to thrive.

The Golden Petra plant showcases brilliant golden-yellow foliage that illuminates any room with its stunning natural beauty.

Golden Petra

The Golden Petra is a stunning red leaf plant with leaves that are a mix of green, yellow, and bright red. Its variegated leaves make it a playful addition to any indoor space. This plant is native to Indonesia and requires bright, indirect light to thrive.

One fun fact about the Croton Petra is that it’s also known as the “Joseph’s Coat” plant because of its vibrant colors. It’s a great choice for those who want a red leaf plant that also features other bold hues.

Ready to explore even more? Shop our full collection of variegated plants and bring your home to life with vibrant living color!


red-leaf-plants

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