• Do not keep plants in direct sunlight, especially in summer. Diffused light (from an east or north window) is best, although insufficient light means fewer flowers
• Do not allow the soil to become soggy; good drainage is very important. Check occasionally to make sure that the drainage hole is not plugged.
• Water should be kept at room temperature, and do not get any water on the foliage.
• Watch the plants for signs of insects. For mealy bugs, which are small, cottony white spots, touch them with a small swab dipped in alcohol. Most other insects can be controlled by dusting with a complete insecticide, especially in the heart of the plants.
• A layer of granulated charcoal on top of potting soil filters out any unwanted additives in the water.
• For no-mess watering of your hanging plants, let a few ice cubes slowly melt into the soil.
• Eggshells are a great source of calcium for your plants. Dry them in the oven or microwave, crush them as fine as possible, and then add them to the planter mix or soil.
• Bricks can save your plants’ lives. When you go on vacation, place a plant on a brick in an old bucket and cover the brick with water; it will last a couple of weeks.
• Place a mothball on the soil of all house plants that are outdoors one month before you bring them in to help get rid of any pests that have taken up residence.
• Waterproof the sides of clay pots by spraying them with two coats of Scotch Guard from the top down to 1” above the bottom of the pot.
• To keep bugs out of the soil of your houseplants, simply sprinkle pencil-sharpening shavings on top of the soil.
• Torn leaves on your house plants can be mended with clear nail polish applied to both sides of the leaf.