Episode 9: Houseplants

Houseplants have come a long way since your mum's Swiss cheese plant from the 1970s. However, successfully cultivating one of the myriad of varieties available today, is not as simple as wedging your chosen species into the barren corner of the living room in a once redundant terracotta pot. From nurturing your first cactus at university to transforming your home into an indoor sanctuary full of orchids, bringing the outside in has always had its challenges but also its benefits. Discover why, as Sarah places her partner Jason Stevens in the hot seat to grill him on his knowledge and passion for houseplants. Jason served 16 years in the Army leaving in 2016 for medical reasons, after which he undertook a period of rehabilitation. During his recovery he noticed what a positive effect gardening had and chose to follow this up by embarking on a garden design diploma. Eventually he narrowed his focus to sourcing and caring for indoor houseplants. Jason chats about numerous varieties of houseplants, from easy care perennials such as ferns and aspidistra to trickier specimens such as selaginella. He discusses the potential health benefits some may provide and offers some great tips on general plant care. Whether you know your bonsai from your begonia, there is plenty of useful information to ensure you can achieve your indoor zen. *Listen today to find out the winner of the review competition.   Points of interest; Easiest and most difficult houseplants Sunny spots and shady spots Bathroom plants Bedroom plants Hanging pots Tips on the procedure of buying plants General plant maintenance Rain water Vs distilled water Top 5 common pests and diseases   FAQs answered; Do I need to repot a plant once I get it home? How do I tell if my plant needs watering? How often should I water my plants? Should I give my plants food? Which plants need misting? Should I use leaf shine?   Guest follow up; www.simplygarden.org  Jason Stephens Instagram simply_garden Facebook @simplygardensw    Further useful research; Plant names mentioned: Aspidistra elatior Sansevieria trifasciata – Mother-in-Law's Tongue Calathea Nephrolepis exaltata – Boston Fern  Ficus elastica – Rubber Plant Ficus benjamina – Weeping Fig Spathiphyllum – Peace Lily Ceropegia woodii – String of Hearts Selaginella species Echinocactus grusonii – Mother-in-Law's Seat   Brand names: House Plant Focus SB Plant Invigorator   Pests: Aphids Fungus gnats Mealy bugs Spider mites Thrips   Get in touch; Email [email protected]  Website www.rootsandall.co.uk Twitter @rootsandall Instagram rootsandallpod   Patreon Link; https://www.patreon.com/rootsandall