About Will Creed Expertise I have professional knowledge of all indoor plants and can answer questions
regarding light, water, fertilizer, repotting, and humidity and temperature
requirements. I can identify plant pests and provide information on safe,
effective treatment. Answers are based on 26 years of professional, hands-on
experience and scientific research and are clear and easy to understand.
Experience I have over 25 years of professional indoor landscaping experience caring for plants in homes, offices, building lobbies, stores, restaurants, and other adverse environments. I have written extensively on the care of indoor plants. My specialties include Ficus trees, low light plants, repotting, pest control, and re-blooming holiday plants. I am writing a book on indoor plant care.
Be sure to check my ratings and nominations to learn why I am the top-rated indoor plant expert.
Question I have a Rhoeo which thrived beautifully outside in a pot on the porch this summer. I had to bring it inside because we live in the midwest, and we are having frost warnings at night. It is already not looking as healthy (after 3 days). We don't have any windows that receive direct sunlight. Should I buy a grow light, and if so, what type? How often should it be watered and fertilized? All summer it was fertilized once a month. Thank you for any advice you can provide.
Answer Hi Joni,
Rhoeo is a sun-loving plant and yours is going through the doldrums now that it is deprived of direct sun. Of course, the best thing you can do is give it more natural light. Artificial light will help, but it will not be as effective as natural light.
I recommend an inexpensive fluorescent light that is placed within a foot or less of the top of the plant. Other bulb types generate a lot of heat and cannot be placed so close to the plant. Also, fluorescent lights are much more energy efficient and cheaper to operate. Keep the light on for 12-16 hours per day.
In reduced light, it is important to reduce your watering frequency and the fertilizer. Let the top inch of the soil dry out in between waterings. Stop fertilizing until next spring when you can move it back outside.
Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC
You can E-mail me directly at: wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com
Visit my web site at www.HorticulturalHelp.com
If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.
