Philodendron melanochrysum | Black-gold philodendron
Care level - Moderate
Light: Do not place your Philodendron melanochrysum in direct light as it burns the leaves. An east-facing or north-facing window is ideal
Water: Water when the top few cm’s of soil has dried out, and mist frequently
Temperature: Avoid placing near a radiator, but ensure the room temperature doesn’t get too cold, never below 15°C
Caryota mitis | Burmese fishtail palm
Care level - Easy
Light: Although bright, indirect sun is ideal, they appreciate some morning or evening sun during the height of winter
Water: When the top few cm’s of soil has dried out. Mist regularly as Caryota mitis love high humidity. Fertilise monthly during the spring and summer growing period
Temperature: Keep plants away from heaters and draughts, as they dislike fluctuating temperatures
Cissus discolor | Rex begonia vine
Care level - Moderate
Light: Cissus discolor needs bright but not direct sunlight. An east-facing window is ideal
Water: Water when the top few cm’s of soil has dried out. Water thoroughly so the water reaches the plant’s deeper roots and ensure the compost never completely dries out. As Cissus discolor needs high humidity, mist your plant regularly, particularly in the winter
Temperature: Cissus discolor do not like temperature extremes. Sudden temperature fluctuations can also damage the plant’s foliage. Ensure the room doesn’t drop below 18°C
Ludisia discolor | Black jewel orchid
Care level - Easy
Light: Very tolerant of low-lighting - keep out of direct sunlight as this will scorch the leaves
Water: This plant does not need as much humidity as often referenced. Once the top third of the soil has dried out, give it a good water, allowing the excess moisture to drain from the pot freely. Whilst in bloom, it’s important not to use cold water as this could shock the roots, causing multiple issues down the line
Temperature: Ludisia discolor don’t like the cold. Keep in rooms between 16°C - 22°C
Alocasia macrorrhiza | Giant taro / elephants ears
Care level - Moderate
Light: Partial shade (can tolerate some full sun for parts of the day)
Water: It’s always better to under-water an Alocasia macrorrhiza than over-do it. Use lukewarm water as their roots systems are sensitive to temperature change
Temperature: ‘Giant Taro’ can be planted outdoors during the summer in a sheltered location with temperatures above 12˚C. It is frost tender (will need winter protection) but is fine to remain indoors year round too
Phalaenopsis ‘Cosmea 20’ | Moth orchid
Care level - Easy
Light: An east- or west-facing windowsill is an ideal spot. In winter, move your Phalaenopsis to an area that enjoys bright sunlight to encourage flowering. In summertime, move further away from the window or to an area with softer sunlight. These plants thrive in bright, but indirect light - avoid direct sunshine, which can scorch this orchid’s sensitive leaves
Water: Take care not to splash the leaves or get water into the crown. Mist Phalaenopsis roots and leaf-tips in summer to increase humidity and group plants together to maintain humidity levels
Temperature: Phalaenopsis like consistently warm conditions all year round – 19–30°C during the day and 16–19°C at night. Keep plants away from radiators, heaters and exterior doors to avoid cold draughts and fluctuating temperatures
Top five care tips
Choosing the perfect size planters
Before you buy a new planter, make a note of your plants existing pot’s widest and tallest dimensions, then check the diameter of the new planters opening, rather than its widest point (which retailers often state). Aim for your new planter to be a size up from the previous pot size to make room for potting on or, if it is a decorative pot, so that your potted plant can sit comfortably inside
Suitability
If your houseplant is a thirsty species, we recommend you choose glazed or metal pots. Avoid planting directly into clay or terracotta pots as they draw out moisture, instead look for shapes of planters that a plastic nursery pot can fit inside. Metal decorative pots should always have a liner or saucer in the base as they will eventually oxidise and degrade
Repotting
Spring is the best time to repot houseplants to avoid them getting rootbound and give them the best chance to thrive. Carefully turn the plant over to see if the roots are growing out of the drainage holes. Before repotting, always give the plant a good soak for at least 1hr prior which will help loosen the roots. Always use peat free compost
Watering, misting and dusting
Where possible use rainwater or filtered water to mist & water your plants. Check the moisture recommendations for each plant but they usually prefer a thorough watering and less often than you might think. If your plant is in a decorative pot, remove it from the planter to water to avoid the roots sitting in excess moisture for long periods. Most thrive with regular misting which rehydrates them. Don’t forget it is vital for photosynthesis to gently clean dust off their leaves
Position
Choose plants that are 'right for site'. Some prefer shadier places or a north-facing window; some love a bright sunny position. Some like it hot and humid, others don’t! A little research will tell you what is suitable for the spots you’d like a plant to occupy
Your photos
We loved seeing all of the visitor photos from the Chelsea Flower Show 2022 which tagged us or used the hashtags: #BotanicalRhapsody #RHSChelsea #HousePlantStudios
Head back to our main Chelsea Flower Show hub to keep exploring.
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