Episode 9: Houseplants

Houseplants have come a long way since your mum’s Swiss cheese plant from the 1970s. However, successfully cultivating one of the myriad of varieties available today, is not as simple as wedging your chosen species into the barren corner of the living room in a once redundant terracotta pot. From nurturing your first cactus at university to transforming your home into an indoor sanctuary full of orchids, bringing the outside in has always had its challenges but also its benefits.

Discover why, as Sarah places her partner Jason Stevens in the hot seat to grill him on his knowledge and passion for houseplants. Jason served 16 years in the Army leaving in 2016 for medical reasons, after which he undertook a period of rehabilitation. During his recovery he noticed what a positive effect gardening had and chose to follow this up by embarking on a garden design diploma. Eventually he narrowed his focus to sourcing and caring for indoor houseplants.

Jason chats about numerous varieties of houseplants, from easy care perennials such as ferns and aspidistra to trickier specimens such as selaginella. He discusses the potential health benefits some may provide and offers some great tips on general plant care. Whether you know your bonsai from your begonia, there is plenty of useful information to ensure you can achieve your indoor zen.

*Listen today to find out the winner of the review competition.

 

Points of interest;

Easiest and most difficult houseplants

Sunny spots and shady spots

Bathroom plants

Bedroom plants

Hanging pots

Tips on the procedure of buying plants

General plant maintenance

Rain water Vs distilled water

Top 5 common pests and diseases

 

FAQs answered;

Do I need to repot a plant once I get it home?

How do I tell if my plant needs watering?

How often should I water my plants?

Should I give my plants food?

Which plants need misting?

Should I use leaf shine?

 

Guest follow up;

www.simplygarden.org 

Jason Stephens Instagram simply_garden

Facebook @simplygardensw 

 

Further useful research;

Plant names mentioned:

Aspidistra elatior

Sansevieria trifasciata – Mother-in-Law’s Tongue

Calathea

Nephrolepis exaltata – Boston Fern 

Ficus elastica – Rubber Plant

Ficus benjamina – Weeping Fig

Spathiphyllum – Peace Lily

Ceropegia woodii – String of Hearts

Selaginella species

Echinocactus grusonii – Mother-in-Law’s Seat

 

Brand names:

House Plant Focus

SB Plant Invigorator

 

Pests:

Aphids

Fungus gnats

Mealy bugs

Spider mites

Thrips

 

Get in touch;

Email [email protected] 

Website www.rootsandall.co.uk

Twitter @rootsandall

Instagram rootsandallpod

 

Patreon Link;

https://www.patreon.com/rootsandall