Watering

Distilled or filtered water at room temperature is best for plants. Over watering can be worse than under watering. Lower leaves turning yellow is an indication of too much water. Water more sparingly during the winter months when plants get less natural light. Most plants need this natural period of rest.

Humidity

Room humidity of 40-60% is best for your plants. Using a humidifier, grouping plants together, misting, and standing plant pots in water filled trays helps keep them moist. (Some plants, however, do not like their leaves to be wet. Ask your sales person if you are unsure of a plant's needs.)

Pruning

Always use a sharp pruner to avoid bruising or damaging the remaining stem. Trimming back stem tips will make plants sturdier and fuller. When trimming the brown tips from plant leaves, cut only the brown portion, leaving a thin line of dry tip to prevent further drying. Make sure to remove dried blooms from your houseplants.

Repotting

Plants purchased in shipping containers should be repotted with fresh potting soil. Repot in the springtime, not during the dormant winter months. Provide proper drainage with either drainage holes or an inch of gravel at the bottom to prevent root rotting.

Fertilizing

You can give your plants a boost by using either Osmocote slow-release fertilizer or Peters All Purpose 20-20-20 fertilizer.