Now that we are spending so many more hours at home due to the coronavirus outbreak in Portugal, it is important to create a more pleasant, comfortable and, above all, healthy environment to spend your time. Although natural ventilation is one of the most effective systems for renewing the air inside the home, plants are a great option, playing a fundamental role in purifying the environment, as well as being a reference of joy and vitality.
Plants are beneficial to general health, and caring for them can be a good step towards reducing stress, controlling anxiety or, if you like, a good form of meditation. For some, plants can be a way of disconnecting from the world, from mobile phones and the computer, and creating a moment, however small, of contact with nature, especially important in the current climate. It's time to have a look at some essential tips to take care of your plants during this period of confinement and, if necessary, recover others that, due to lack of time, have been neglected.
Find a place with lots of light, but be careful
A lack of light is a problem for plants, but everything will also depend on the type of plants you have at home. First and foremost, do your research. Try to explore and find out more about your plants now that you have more time on your hands, so that you can put them in the most ideal place in the house.
Although most plants need lots of light, it's worth mentioning that direct sunlight can also be harmful: if you decide to put the plant next to a window, you should protect it with a curtain, for example, to prevent scorched leaves.
Be careful with the amount of water you use
Excess water is the main enemy of plants. Each season requires more or less abundant watering, but not as much as you might think, since inside conditions are quite different from outside. If you have any doubts, feel the soil to see if it is moist and eliminate the excess water that may be in the container under your pot.
Moisture is also important
You can water plants properly and keep them in the best place in the house, but if you don't take into account the humidity, all your efforts can go down the drain. A good indicator is the dry ends of the leaves. You can keep them moist by spraying them from time to time.
The temperature
Most plants react well to an environment with a temperature between 15 and 25 degrees, depending on whether it is summer or winter. Remember that heaters or air conditioning are also considered enemies of plants.
Ventilate and clean
So that plants can cary out photosynthesis more easily, it is recommended ventilating rooms and cleaning the leaves with a damp cloth, so that dust does not accumulate and prevent perspiration.
Inside and outside
Not only indoor plants are an option at home. If you have a patio, a garden, or even a balcony, you can take advantage of these spaces to create real outdoor oases. There are many websites from which you can order plants to be delivered to your house and you can even give a new lease of life to some furniture that has been "lost" in the attic. It's time to convert your balcony into your new favourite place at home!
