{"id":30193,"date":"2026-07-01T11:00:39","date_gmt":"2026-07-01T18:00:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/jefferson\/?page_id=30193"},"modified":"2026-07-01T14:22:49","modified_gmt":"2026-07-01T21:22:49","slug":"tip-sheet-15-houseplants","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/extension.wsu.edu\/jefferson\/mg-home\/tip-sheet-15-houseplants\/","title":{"rendered":"Tip Sheet #15: Houseplants"},"content":{"rendered":"
\r\n \n
\r\n\t\n\n

Houseplants are today\u2019s original container gardens. It is rewarding to see a living thing thrive under our care, and we have environments that can help us do this. It is important to pick plants that fit your environment and your ability to care for them. First evaluate your environment to find a match for your plant\u2019s needs and what you can and will offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Light<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Know your rooms\u2019 light levels. North-facing windows are generally low-light. East-facing windows, overhead lighting or good indirect light are medium light. South or west-facing windows are generally bright light. Keep in mind that seasonal changes may cause you to move your plants. If your light is less than ideal, consider grow lights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Water<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most plants need moderate watering, but never completely dry or completely wet. If the pot seems light and the leaf tips are brown or the plant collapses, there\u2019s too little water. If the pot is heavy, the plant droops and the lower leaves turn yellow or brown, reduce watering. The best test? Insert your finger 1 to 2 inches into the soil, and if it feels cool and moist, wait to water. Some people like to use a water meter to assess soil moisture. Leave about \u00be inch of space between the soil surface and the pot top as a reservoir to prevent spills when watering. If your soil becomes completely dry, it can become hydrophobic-that is, it actually repels water. Water thoroughly, and break up soil if it has become too compacted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Soils<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Always use potting soil, not topsoil or garden soil. Sterilized soils will prevent disease and weed seeds from contaminating your plants.A mix should be free draining; add vermiculite (for more moist soils) or perlite (for drier soils) to improve drainage if needed. Heavy potting mix creates problems like root rot because it takes too long to dry out, and roots cannot get enough oxygen. Soilless potting mixes help create the conditions that can meet the water and air requirements of indoor plants. Always pre-moisten the soil before adding plants. You can add a top dressing of mulch or moss to conserve moisture or for looks.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\r\n\n\n

\r\n\t\n
\r\n \n\n

More Information<\/h2>\n\n\n