Houseplant Care Basics: Light, Water, and Soil
New to plant care? Learn the essentials of light, watering, and soil so your indoor jungle thrives with PlantAt.
Caring for houseplants is simple when you focus on three fundamentals: light, water, and soil. Get these right and most plants will reward you with steady growth.
Light: Observe where the sun moves in your home. Bright, indirect light suits popular plants like pothos, monstera, and philodendron. South-facing windows are strongest; sheer curtains help diffuse light.
Water: Overwatering is the most common mistake. Check the top 2–3 cm of soil—if it feels dry, water thoroughly until excess drains out. Empty saucers so roots don’t sit in water.
Soil: Use a well‑draining mix. Add perlite or bark for aeriation, especially for aroids and succulents. Repot annually to refresh nutrients and adjust pot size.
Pro tip: Use PlantAt to identify your plant and get species‑specific care guides and reminders tailored to your environment.
PlantAt helps you identify plants, diagnose issues, and care with confidence.