What are tropical plants and how are they cared for?

Group of Anthurium in bloom

When we talk about tropical plants we refer to all those that grow in the tropical regions of the world, that is, near the equator. They are very special plant beings, adapted to living in areas without frost, with especially decorative leaves and / or flowers.

They are often those that are sold in nurseries as "indoor plants", because, in addition to being sensitive to cold, they can be had inside the house taking into account some important things that we will now see.

Calathea lancifolia, a lovely plant with decorative leaves

Having some tropical plants at home is always a source of joy. They are so decorative that they look great in any corner. But if we don't take proper care of them in the end, they will spoil. To avoid this, it is important that are placed in a bright place but without direct sunlight. In this way, they will be able to have a good development and better growth.

Another thing we have to do is change them pot shortly after buying them and again after two-three years. Why? Because they have probably been in it for months, maybe years. If we didn't, they would end up weakening from a lack of nutrients in the end. So, in spring, we will have to move them to a 2-3cm larger with a suitable substrate depending on the type of plant it is.

Pink Mandevilla flower

If we talk about irrigation, it will be very necessary to water with water without lime, whenever it is necessary. During the warmer months the frequency will be higher than the rest of the year. To avoid problems, it is very important to check the humidity of the soil before proceeding to water, either by introducing a thin wooden stick (if it comes out practically clean, we can do it), or by weighing the pot once watered and again at the after a few days (this difference in weight can serve as a guide).

To have them even more precious and strong, we must pay them with a fertilizer for indoor plants following the indications specified on the product packaging in spring and summer. During the winter they do not have to be fertilized, since as they are in an area where the climate is not suitable for them and they hardly grow, the fertilizer could do them more harm than good.

Leaves of the plant Coffea arabica, the coffee plant

Finally, we need to make sure that the ambient humidity is high. For this we can use a humidifier to place several glasses with water around it. I do not recommend spraying, because if the water remains on the leaves for a long time, it will clog the pores that are on the surface, which could cause breathing problems.

Enjoy your tropical plants. 🙂


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