Frequently Asked Questions - Houseplants and Indoor Gardening
Individuals wishing to save their Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum) should place the plant in a sunny window after flowering. Continue to water the plant when needed. Fertilize once every 2 weeks with a dilute fertilizer…
For an earlier crop, muskmelons can be started indoors. Sow seeds indoors 3 to 4 weeks before the anticipated outdoor planting date. Muskmelons can be planted outdoors in early May in southern Iowa, mid-May in central Iowa, and late…
Grapefruit and several other types of citrus can be grown indoors in Iowa. Indoors, place citrus plants in a sunny south or west window. Water plants regularly when growing in spring and summer, less often in winter. In spring…
Place the jade plant (Crassula argentea) in a sunny window where it receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight. The jade plant is a succulent which stores water in its foliage and stems. Overwatering (watering too…
Place gardenia in a brightly lit, cool location. The location should receive bright light, but not direct sunlight. Ideal temperatures are 55 to 65°F during the night and 65 to 75°F during the day. Check the potting soil…
The umbrella tree (Schefflera actinophylla) is native to rainforests in Australia and New Guinea. In the home, place the umbrella tree in bright, indirect light near an east, west, or south window. Allow the potting soil to…
Mealybugs on houseplants are difficult to control. Unless the plant is particularly valuable, it’s often best to throw away the infested plant before the insects spread to other houseplants. The standard remedies for houseplant pests…
Cut off the top of the pineapple about 1 inch below the cluster of leaves. Trim away the outer portion of the pineapple top leaving the tough, stringy core attached to the leaves. Also, remove a few of the lowest leaves. The…
The amaryllis can be moved outdoors in late May. When the amaryllis is moved outdoors, harden or acclimate the plant to the outdoor environment by initially placing it in a shady, protected area for 2 or 3 days and then gradually expose it…
