Your own potting mix: a simple recipe for happy plants

Compost, bark and perlite in the right measure, and how to change it for ferns, aroids and cacti.

Start with the light

Every plant care question begins with where the plant stands. Look at how many hours of sun reach the spot, and how far it is from the window, before you think about water or food.

Water less, but well

Most plants are lost to too much water, not too little. Wait until the top of the soil is dry, then water until it runs out of the drainage hole, and empty the saucer.

• Check the soil with a finger before you water.
• Use a pot with a drainage hole.
• Feed once a month from spring to the end of summer.

Give it time

A plant that has just moved may drop a leaf or two. Leave it where it is for a few weeks before you change anything.

Good plant care is mostly patience.

Ask when unsure

Send us a photo of the plant and the spot it stands in, and we will tell you what we would do.