Each week
Look before you pour.
Check the compost with a finger, then lift the pot. Light pot, dry soil? Water thoroughly, let it drain and empty the cover pot. A calendar can remind you to check, but should not decide the watering.
The care cupboard
A little looking.
A lot of learning.
No rigid watering days. No magic tricks. Start with the light, feel the compost and get to know what your plant is telling you.
The simplest growing kit
Check the soil.
Watch the leaves.
Let the light lead.
A curious eye and a finger in the compost will tell you more than a watering calendar.
The right care, for your plant
Know what’s in your pot.
Leaf a clue
Something looking off?
One leaf rarely tells the whole story. Choose the closest symptom for a sensible first check.
Small habits, healthier plants
Make a little time.
Each month
A clean leaf works harder.
Wipe smooth leaves with a damp, soft cloth. Skip leaf-shine sprays. Turn the pot a quarter turn and check the undersides for pests. Keep new plants apart from your collection for a fortnight.
Through the seasons
Let the light lead.
Spring and summer bring growth and a little feeding. In autumn and winter, growth slows: check less often, feed less and keep leaves away from cold glass. A bright window is still useful in the darker months.
When it’s time for more room
Roots at the door?
If roots circle the pot tightly or water runs straight through, spring is a good time to repot. Move up just 2–3cm in diameter and always choose drainage.
Loosen the outer roots gently, use a suitable fresh potting mix, and settle the plant at the same depth. Don’t bury the stem.
Not sure about the roots? Bring a clear photograph of the plant and its pot to the shop. We’ll help you work out the next step.
Bring us your questions