How to care for Your Tropical Plants

Tropical plants are the common choice for most house plants. This is because we prefer the same temperature a they do. These types of plants can not survive in colder regions so the temperature in your house must not be cold. When it is too hot, though, some tropical plants might die also. The proper light, soil, humidity and moisture are some of the factors that may affect the growth and health of your plants.

Light for Your Plant

Light or sunlight is needed by most plants in order to produce their own food. They use light in a process called photosynthesis which occurs in the leaves. Most tropical plants have different needs for sunlight. You may notice your plant may change color depending on light exposure. If your plants has naturally dark, green leaves and it turns light green or even yellow, you can help it become healthier by just changing the light exposure.

Most tropical plants prefer real sunlight but if this is not so easy to achieve, you may use incandescent lights or fluorescent lights. The wavelength of the light you will use must also be considered. To produce their food, most tropical plants need lights which are more on the blues or reds tones. Incandescent bulbs usually give out red tones. Common white lights give out or emit mostly blue light.

What kind of soil?

The right kind of soil which plants need must promote aeration and proper drainage but at the same time is able to keep moisture for the tropical plants needs. Some potting mixes are already filled with fertilizers to supply your plants with the necessary food that they require for a healthy life and steady growth. Some plants require different kinds of soil in order to grow and live. Some need sandy soil and other need loam.

Moisture

Tropical plants usually have the same water needs. They often prefer to be watered at least once a day. The right kind of soil will retain enough water to supply it to the plant for the whole day. Some tropical plants need to be kept moist most of the time so you have your work cut out for you especially if it is situated near an open window where it is exposed to wind and sunlight. Constant exposure to direct sunlight and wind will dry up the soil or potting mixture of your plant.

If you are in doubt about the health of your plant or how to care for it, you may consult a gardener or a botanist or even a horticulturist.