Via Oregon - September/October 2021 - 44

SMART GUIDE
2
Make plant care easy. If a plant
comes with a care tag, keep the
tag in or near the pot-and follow
its instructions. Heed conventional
wisdom too: Most plants don't like
direct light or full shade, so set
yours near windows but not right
in the sun. Plants need hydration,
but most don't do well sitting in
water. Make sure every pot has
drainage holes, and let the soil dry
between waterings. Most plants
thrive in standard potting soil without
frequent fertilization. Rotate
pots every 30 to 60 days to even
out growth toward its light source.
1
Grow a windowsill garden. You'll need
only a few supplies to cultivate herbs and
other edible plants. Start with a few seeds or
young plants, a broad container filled with
standard potting soil, and a spot next to a
window that provides bright but indirect
sunlight. Popular sill-to-table herbs include
basil, cilantro, mint, oregano, and parsley.
Water according to the care tag's directions
or whenever the soil feels dry. If you're apt
to forget, consider investing in a smart
hydroponic setup that alerts you via an app
when it's time to refill the reservoir. When
harvesting herbs, pinch leaves from the
top of the plant to encourage new growth.
44 VIA | SEPTEMBER+OCTOBER 2021
3. Keep your household safe.
Many popular plants present hazards
to children and pets. Rose
thorns and cactus spines can hurt
curious fingers. Flowering bulbs
such as lilies, tulips, crocuses,
narcissus, onions, and garlic are
toxic to dogs and cats if ingested;
safer options include African violets,
bromeliads, and the lipstick
plant. Before you buy, confirm
that what you bring home won't
cause any harm. Place all potted
plants where they won't topple if
bumped, pulled, or chewed on.
TOP: MAMA_MIA / SHUTTERSTOCK; BOTTOM: KONSTANTIN AKSENOV / SHUTTERSTOCK
Via Oregon - September/October 2021

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