Here are some pointers for selecting, siting, planting and caring for houseplants. Choose plants that have healthy foliage, are free of insects and diseases, are sturdy, clean, well potted and shapely, and have new flower, leaf buds and young growth. Before purchasing a houseplant, find the place in your home where you want to put it. Identify the amount of light available and the temperature range during the day and night. These elements are important to know when selecting a plant to fit the location.
Houseplants are sensitive to drafts and heat from registers.
Make sure the location you choose is away from these areas. If your houseplant needs to be repotted, select a container no more than 2 inches larger in diameter than the pot the plant is currently growing in, has enough room at the top of the pot to allow for proper watering, and has bottom drainage. The potting soil should be coarse enough to allow good drainage yet still have some water retention capabilities. Watering is key to the survival of your plant. Over watering and under watering account for the death of most houseplants.