If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a plant parent who has struggled to keep your plants alive. Maybe you’ve had a string of plants that have died on you, or maybe you’re just starting out and want to make sure you do everything right from the start. Either way, we’re here to help! Here are 9 tips to help you keep your plants alive the next time you buy plants from the garden centre:

1. Get to know your plant.

The first step in keeping your plant alive is to make sure you know what kind of plant you have. Every plant is different, and each one has different needs in terms of sunlight, water, and soil. Once you know what kind of plant you have, research how often it needs to be watered and how much sunlight it needs each day. This will help you create a care routine that meets all of your plant’s needs.

One of the most common reasons why plants die is because they are either overwatered or underwatered. To prevent this, create a watering schedule that takes into account how often your plant needs water and make sure to stick to it. A good way to remember to water your plant is to set a weekly alarm on your phone or put it on your calendar.

Another reason why plants die is because they don’t have proper drainage. When you water your plant, make sure that the excess water can drain away from the roots so they don’t become waterlogged. One way to do this is by watering your plant in the sink and letting the water run out until it’s just trickling before returning the plant to its spot.

Bugs can wreak havoc on a plant, so it’s important to check for them regularly and take care of them as soon as possible if you find any. A good way to check for bugs is to put a white sheet of paper under your plant and shake it gently; any bugs that are on the plant will fall onto the paper where you can easily see them.

Fertilizing helps provide vital nutrients that plants need to grow, so it’s important to do it on a regular basis according to the instructions on the fertilizer package. If you notice that your plant is starting to look unhealthy, fertilizing may help give it the boost it needs.

Pruning helps encourage new growth and can also help get rid of dead or dying leaves or stems. It’s important not to over-prune, however, as this can shock the plant and cause more harm than good.

Just like people, plants need a change of scenery every once in a while! Every few months, move your plant to a different location in order to mimic its natural environment as much as possible.

Dead leaves and stems can harbor pests and diseases which can spread to other parts of the plant or even kill it completely, so make sure to pull them off as soon as you notice them starting to die back.

Over time, potting mix can breakup and compact, which can impede drainage and make it difficult for roots to take up nutrients and water. Re-pot your plant at least once in a year or two into a bigger pot if required with fresh potting mix.