Green up your thumb with these plant parenting tips

As a plant parent, there are several tips you need to know to ensure your plants stay healthy and happy. We turned to Christian A. aka Crazy Plant Guy, Youtuber and owner of Crazy Plant Shop, to offer his tips on plant care. Yelp Toronto recently partnered with Crazy Plant Shop for a Yelp event where the knowledgeable staff equipped Yelp Elites with a starter plant, tips and a plant cookie by Mad Batter Bakers. Yelp Elite Maddie B. shares, “Crazy Plant Shop is like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory… But for plants. [They] gave me hope for the future of my green thumb, and for that I can’t rate it any less than 5 stars!”

Know your plants

Choose the right type of plants that suit your environment and lifestyle. Christian recommends beginner-friendly ones, like pothos, snake, and spider plants. Peperomias are ideal for pet owners as they are non-toxic to pets. 

Lighting and environmental needs

Most houseplants do best in bright, indirect light near a window or with supplemental grow lights. “Lighting will impact the way the plant grows in terms of speed and size of leaves,” notes Christian. Other factors like temperature and humidity can all affect plant growth. Make sure to keep your plants away from drafts as it can cause stress to your plant.

Water your plants correctly

Plants need water, but too little or too much can be harmful. He recommends allowing the excess to drain through before putting it back in its decorative pot. “When in doubt, stick your finger in the soil and water when it feels dry,” says Christian.

Check for pests and diseases

Plants can attract pests like spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, scale and diseases like powdery mildew. Check your plants for signs of infection, like leaf texture and colour changes, and treat any problems when you spot them.

Repot and fertilize when necessary

It’s vital to repot plants when they outgrow their current container. Look for signs such as roots growing out of the current container or when it looks crowded. Fertilize your plants, especially during the growing season by following package instructions.

Remember, every plant is unique, so it’s essential to research its care requirements. With love and care, your plants will bring joy for years. To join in for our next event, tune into the Yelp Elite or community calendar for potential Earth Month events near you.