Top 3 Tricky Houseplants for Newcomers to Steer Clear Of
Struggling to Navigate the Green World? Here's a Guide to Houseplants That'll Make Even the Most Seasoned Growers Sweat
Newbies beware! Here's our list of the top 5 most finicky plants that'll put even your patience to the test:
1. Ornery Orchid (phalaenopsis and other species)
Orchids are everywhere, but getting them to thrive in a home setting requires a green thumb and a dash of magic. They require a bark-based substrate, strict watering by immersion, high humidity, specialized fertilizers, and temperature fluctuations for flowering - a challenge in an apartment setting. One small misstep, and the orchid will shed its buds or rot.
2. High-Maintenance Calathea
This stunning plant with its patterned leaves is a real diva. Calathea craves constant air humidity of 70-80%, protection from drafts and sudden temperature changes, frequent watering, and indirect light. If these conditions aren't met, the leaves will turn crispy at the edges, making it tough to revive the plant.
3. Fussbudget Azalea
This vibrant bloomer is a challenge for any aspiring plant lover. It cannot tolerate hard water (only boiled or rainwater), demands a temperature above +18°C, and abhors dry air. It only blooms when conditions are perfect; otherwise, it sheds its buds and leaves, and it often perishes during repotting.
4. The Calamity Cast Iron Plant
This hard-to-kill plant has earned its reputation for being difficult to care for, despite its tolerant nature. It requires well-draining soil, infrequent watering, low light, and a cool environment. Neglect it, and it will rapidly grow. Overwater it, and it'll eventually rot.
5. The Quirky Peace Lily
This plant is known for its spatial demands and finicky nature. It thrives in low light, but if its roots get too damp, it can suffer from root rot. Additionally, it's sensitive to fluoride found in tap water, requiring frequent repotting in fresh, fluoride-free potting mix.
Starting out, it's wise to invest in more resilient plants like chlorophytum, sansevieria, zamioculcas, or epipremnum. Master the basics of care, and then venture into more demanding plants.
Ever wondering about using aquarium water for watering challenging houseplants? There are some compelling reasons for it:
Perks of Aquarium Water for Houseplants
- Nutrient-Rich Water: Aquarium water is chock-full of fish waste, decaying food, and helpful bacteria that function as natural fertilizers, offering essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and micronutrients to support plant growth.[1]
- Boosts Microbial Activity: The beneficial bacteria in aquarium water increase microbial activity in the soil, enhancing plant health and resilience.[1]
- Sustainable and Earth-Friendly: Repurposing aquarium water reduces waste, promoting a more eco-friendly gardening practice.[1]
- Balanced Nutrient Input: Sparingly using aquarium water helps address nutrient shortfalls in finicky houseplants.[1]
Remember: Ensure your aquarium is healthy without signs of disease or chemical treatments before repurposing the water to avoid harming your plants. Also, be mindful of not overusing aquarium water, as excessive use can lead to nutrient build-ups or imbalances in the soil, potentially causing over-fertilization. Lastly, saltwater aquariums should be avoided, as their high salt content can damage terrestrial plants.
Houseplants can be challenging for beginners, with the Ornery Orchid, High-Maintenance Calathea, Fussbudget Azalea, The Calamity Cast Iron Plant, and The Quirky Peace Lily requiring specific care and conditions that make them hard to maintain. On the other hand, using aquarium water for watering challenging houseplants can offer benefits such as providing nutrient-rich water, boosting microbial activity, promoting a sustainable gardening practice, and addressing nutrient shortfalls in finicky plants. However, it's essential to ensure the aquarium is healthy and to use aquarium water sparingly to prevent over-fertilization or nutrient build-ups.
