Expert: Will Creed - 5/9/2007

Question
I just brought me a indoor heather plant, not much of a green-thumb muself.  Was wondering what kind of light, water, and feeding.  
Thanks in advance:
Jimmy

Answer
Hi Jimmy,

True Heather is the Calluna species that grows in Europe and does not make a good indoor plant at all because it requires cold winter temperatures.

Erica is a a Heath plant and is often referred to as Heather, although it is not really. I suspect that is what you have. Erica is also not an easy plant when used indoors because it must have direct sun all day long. So unless you have a very sunny south-facing window that is uncovered throughout the day and is not blocked by any buildings or trees, your plant will struggle.

Keep it in a slightly acidic, porous soil with lots of peat moss. This will keep the roots from getting too soggy. Allow the potting mix to get slightly dry in between waterings. Feed it sparingly, using Miracid at half strength every month or two. Try to keep it as cool as possible indoors.

These are difficult conditions to meet indoors and this is not a plant I would recommend for an inexperienced indoor gardener.

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