Indoor plants are an effective way to add a sense of comfort, style, drama and balance to your home. But what do you do if your Ficus is limp, maidenhair decimated and orchids desperate? Here are some tips to turn your house into a home of happy, healthy greens.

Know your plant’s origins

Knowing about a plant you are adopting is the first step for caring for it correctly. For example, a succulent is from the desert so will need plenty of sun and minimal water. This information informs where it will be placed at home and the maintenance it requires.

It’s thirsty (or drowning)

Observe how your plant responds to warmth, light and watering. Also adjust watering with the seasons, as heaters or open fires in winter, and air conditioning in summer, dry plants out quickly. If the saucer is always wet, you may be over-watering, but if the leaves are going yellow or brown, it may be thirsty. Stick your finger into the soil, and if it’s bone-dry it needs water. Plants love a good feed but hate wet feet, which can result in root rot (a fungal disease). To prevent this, always water well but properly drain before bringing back inside.

No maintenance routine

Pick a designated care day and never skip it. Take plants outside into the shade, remove from their pots and give them a good watering and some fresh air. Once drained, take them back inside. Always give leaves a wipe over with a damp cloth to prevent pests and dust build-up that prevents their ability to filter the air.

Too much sun, or not enough

Many plants love the sun, so take note of the different times of year your home receives gentle, harsh, or all-day sun, and move your plants accordingly.

You think it’s dead – but it’s not

A plant that looks limp, ill, or is losing its leaves doesn’t mean it is dead. If your plant looks unwell, trim off the dead parts, give it some sun, and check to see if it needs to be watered. Sometimes even a change of location makes a huge difference to its health and appearance.