Growing orchid plants is not difficult. In fact, all it takes is a few simple tips to become a successful grower of orchid plants. Orchids are the largest flowering plant family, with over 25,000 recognized species. Most people associate orchids with tropical climates. But orchids grow on all continents in the world except Antarctica. Native orchid plants grow from the Arctic region to the southernmost tropical forest. I often receive questions such as, “How can I grow an orchid that won’t die?” or “My orchid plant never blooms, what am I doing wrong?” Here are my Top 10 Tips for understanding orchids and growing them successfully. Growing Orchid Plants Tip #1: Identify Your Orchid Variety Orchid varieties, just like people or pets, can have specific needs. Finding out what kind of orchid you have will help you determine what kind of container to use, lighting conditions, necessary humidity and temperatures, and blooming period. Here are some popular types of orchid … [Read more...] about Tips for Growing Orchid Plants
At Home
Home Maintenance Tips for Spring and Summer
Here's you list of home maintenance tips for spring and summer to get your home and homestead looking sharp. Winter weather can be harsh on your house. The good thing about warmer months is that you get to take care of your home while enjoying the sun. So, now is the time to prevent unexpected problems and do home maintenance. Follow our list of home maintenance tips – spring and summer edition – to get the most out of this season. Home Maintenance Tips: Check The AC Unit Ideally, you should check your AC unit monthly and replace air filters at least once every three months. Dirty air filters can only cause you harm. The unit has to work harder, and it can lead to increased energy bills and potentially damage your equipment. Also, make sure the insulation of your home is installed and functioning properly. You don’t want the warm air or cool air to escape through windows and roof. If you’re not sure what type of insulation fits your needs, check insulation4less to … [Read more...] about Home Maintenance Tips for Spring and Summer
How to Repot a Peace Lily Houseplant
Here are simple steps to repot a peace lily houseplant. Do you need to repot a peace lily houseplant—or another type of houseplant—but aren’t sure where to start? This post will explain what to look for when your peace lily (Spathiphyllum) is ready for a larger pot. I will also show you exactly how to repot your peace lily houseplant step-by-step with photos. The following steps can also be used to repot other varieties of houseplants. These include pothos, monstera, snake plant, fiddle leaf fig, African violet, money tree, jade plant, and more. For more information about some great house plant varieties, read Best Flowering Houseplants. Does Your Peace Lily Need a Bigger Pot? You won’t know for sure if your peace lily is root bound unless you take it out of the pot and inspect it. But here’s what to look for that indicates your plant is ready for a bigger pot. You may notice at least one, if not more, of the following: It’s Time to Repot a Peace Lily Houseplant If … [Read more...] about How to Repot a Peace Lily Houseplant
19 Ways to Save Energy at Home
Looking for ways to save energy at home? If you are like many homeowners, you want to make your home more energy efficient. After all, sustainability starts on the homefront. The good news is that you don’t have to dramatically overhaul your lifestyle or invest tons of money in renovations. Here are some simple ways to save energy and create an energy efficient home. It’s easy and you will do your part to keep the planet clean and green. Plus, you will save money, too! Editor's Note: Home Garden and Homestead receives a small commission for sales generated by the Amazon links in this story. Thanks for supporting this website! 1. Power Down What if you could become more energy-efficient while improving your relationships with those you hold nearest and dearest? You can. The answer is as simple as locating the button on your phone, tablet and computer that turns off the power. Those devices you rely on to run much of your modern life use a considerable amount of … [Read more...] about 19 Ways to Save Energy at Home
How to Grow Tropical Fruits in Containers
It's easy to grow tropical fruits in containers. Way easier than you think. If you live in a climate where temperatures dip below freezing during the winter months, growing tropical fruit in containers probably sounds like a fantasy. But garden experts say virtually anyone can do it. “If you want to grow tropical fruits, I have good news for you,” said Byron Martin, co-owner of Logee’s Tropical Plants. “You can grow tropical fruits in containers in most climates." According to Martin, all you have to do is follow these three tips. Tips to Grow Tropical Fruit in Containers The first tip is to choose the right plant varieties. The key is to choose dwarf varieties of plants that have been bred to produce fruit on smaller plants. Varieties such as Changshou Kumquat and Super Dwarf Cavendish Banana are perfect for growing in pots or containers. Tip number two, according to Byron Martin, is to move your potted tropical plants as the seasons change. "To grow tropical fruits … [Read more...] about How to Grow Tropical Fruits in Containers
