12 Must have Houseplant Care Accessories for Every indoor Plant
If you’re a proud houseplant owner, you know the importance of having the right tools and accessories to keep your green friends thriving. In this article, I’ll share my top 12 houseplant care accessories that have made my life as a plant parent so much easier. I’ve arranged them in order of what I find most essential.
Top 12 Must-Have Houseplant Care Accessories for Every Indoor Plant
1. Moisture Meter for Precise Watering
My number one Houseplant Care accessory essential is a moisture meter. This little device has revolutionized my watering routine, providing accurate soil moisture readings. It removes the guesswork, ensuring I never overwater or underwater my plants. It’s a must-have tool for any serious plant enthusiast.
2. Grow Lights to Boost Plant Growth
Grow lights are invaluable for houseplants in low-light areas. They support strong growth and can even rejuvenate struggling plants. I have two grow lights in my home, one for plants in a dark corner and the other for propagating cuttings. They’re essential houseplant care accessories to supplement natural light, especially in rooms with limited sunlight. You can read the Best Grow Lights for Indoor Plants
3. Perlite: Enhancing Soil Aeration
Perlite is a fantastic addition to your potting mix. It lightens the soil and improves drainage, preventing it from becoming overly saturated. I use perlite in my propagation medium, and I’ve found that it encourages faster root development compared to water or soil alone. Adjust the perlite-to-compost ratio based on the plant’s needs.
4. High-Quality Potting Soil for Healthy Roots
Potting soil is the foundation of successful plant care. Choose a mix that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and budget-friendly. You can buy pre-made mixes or create your own by combining compost and perlite. Good soil ensures healthy root development and overall plant vigor.
5. Google Lens for Plant Identification
Google Lens is a free app that helps you identify unknown plants in your collection. Simply take a photo of the plant, and the app will provide matches and plant care information. This is a valuable tool to ensure you’re meeting the specific needs of each plant in your collection.
6. Yellow Sticky Cards to Battle Fungus Gnats
Fungus gnats are a common issue for houseplants, but you can control their population with yellow sticky cards. These cards are affordable and help break the gnat life cycle. Simply place them in the soil, and the gnats will get stuck, disrupting their growth. While they may not enhance your plant’s aesthetics, they are an effective solution.
7. Sharp Pruners for Precise Trimming
A sharp pair of pruners is essential for a clean and precise pruning process. Using dull or rusty pruners can damage your plants, introducing the risk of infections and rot. Keeping your pruners clean after each use is crucial to prevent the spread of bacteria. While sterilization isn’t always necessary, regular cleaning is a must.
8. Fertilizer: Essential Plant Nutrition
Plants need food to thrive, and fertilizer is the key. I recommend using a water-soluble fertilizer like Miracle-Gro during the growing season (spring and summer) about once a month. Avoid fertilizing in the winter. Make sure to use a formula suitable for indoor plants, and follow the instructions to prevent over-fertilization, which can harm your plants.
9. Quality Watering Can for Effortless Hydration
Don’t underestimate the importance of a good watering can. It can make the difference between enjoying the process of plant care and seeing it as a chore. Look for a comfortable, well-balanced can with a long spout to reach plants in tight spaces. Avoid those that let water flow too quickly, which can flood your plants.
10. Rooting Hormone for Successful Propagation
Rooting hormone is a secret weapon for propagating plants, especially those that are slow or finicky about rooting, like ficus. Dip your cuttings in rooting powder before planting, and it significantly improves rooting success rates. You can easily find rooting hormone at your local garden center, and it’s cost-effective.
11. Macrame Hangers for Decorative Flair
Macrame hangers are not just functional but also decorative. They provide an excellent way to hang plants on your walls, freeing up windowsills and mantels. They are easy to set up and come in various colors to match your décor.
12. Mister for Precise Plant Care
Having a mister in your houseplant care arsenal is incredibly useful. I primarily use mine for misting plant cuttings in my perlite propagation box, which boosts humidity and aids root development. Additionally, misters are handy for lightly moistening the soil of young and delicate plants that can’t tolerate a heavy watering can shower. However, avoid misting the foliage of your plants, as it can harm them.
