Roots and All - Gardening Podcast 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;
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 podcast@rootsandall.co.uk
Website www.rootsandall.co.uk
Twitter @rootsandall
Instagram rootsandallpod
Patreon Link;