Chlorophytum comosum (kloh-roh-FY-tum kom-OH-sum) is one of the most resilient plants out there. So when something goes wrong, it can catch you off guard. These South African natives were among the first plants tested by NASA for air-purification capabilities. They are a favorite among homeowners for their ease of care and non-toxicity to cats and … Read more
When you think of prayer plants, you’re probably either picturing a Maranta or Calathea. Both come from the Marantaceae family and have a similar appearance and behavior. One of the most popular prayer plants is the Maranta leuconeura (muh-RAN-tuh loo-koh-NYUR-uh), a herbaceous perennial hailing from Brazil. This plant has quite a few nicknames, including: Cathedral … Read more
Pothos isn’t a hungry house plant, but feed it during the growing season for the best results. The best NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) Pothos fertilizer is a 3-1-2 ratio. Read and follow package instructions carefully. Feed your plant once a month with a ½ strength mixture, starting in spring and through the summer. Do not … Read more
Native to Southeast Asia, Dracaena plants are one of the most common household plants worldwide. With its dark green leaves spilling from the top, the Dracaena is one of the easiest plants to take care of. In this article, we’ll be discussing how often to water Dracaena plants for them to grow. Thankfully the plants … Read more
Question: I have been told that every house plant must have a resting period – some brief, some long. As the Christmas cactus blooms in the Winter and grows in the Summer, when does its resting time come? Answer: From the time the Christmas cactus is brought indoors in September until the first flower buds … Read more
Question: I’ve had a Christmas cactus plant for years – it always grows nicely until about August. Then large branches rot at joints near the main plant and fall. Although I root these branches and start new plants, I’d rather they didn’t fall off. What can be done to prevent this? Answer: At about the time you … Read more
Question: I have a large healthy healthy-looking Christmas cactus. Its flower buds fall off, and only two or three remain to open fully. What can I do to prevent this? – J.K., Naugatuck, Conn. Answer: Overwatering, especially in the fall as plants come into bloom, will cause the Christmas cactus to drop its buds, as will insufficient water. … Read more
The most important disease-causing problem for the Christmas cactus plant is caused by a fungus – Fusarium oxysporum. Stem lesions are water-soaked initially and rapidly enlarge to reddish-brown areas which appear sunken or mushy. The fungus spores love this environment, and it is easy to find the dusty yellow-brown covering of spores. Splashing water moves … Read more
Plant enthusiasts love having a range of flowering plants that bloom at different times of the year. This is perhaps why Schlumbergera (shlum-BER-ger-uh), the so-called holiday cacti, especially the Christmas cactus, are so popular. Christmas cactus care is easy. This succulent begins blooming between late November and early December, providing colorful flowers into early Spring. It’s often … Read more
Botanically, Christmas Cactus is, indeed, a true cactus; but for its well-being, it really should have been given some other common name. The word “cactus” brings visions of extreme heat, sand, and dry air to many people. Consequently, these would-be gardeners give any and all cacti the growing conditions they assume (incorrectly, by the way) … Read more