16. Growing indoor plants

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Growing indoor plants is an amazing way to bring a bit of nature indoors, as well as being a relaxing and therapeutic activity. More than that, with the right knowledge and techniques, it is possible to grow a wide variety of plants, including vegetables and herbs, becoming more self-sustaining. Let's explore more about how you can start growing indoor plants.

Why grow plants indoors?

Growing plants indoors has many benefits. First, plants add a lively, vibrant element to the indoor environment, improving air quality and increasing humidity. Additionally, many plants are known for their air-purifying properties, helping to remove toxins from the environment. Indoor gardening can also be a wonderful way to relieve stress and give you a sense of accomplishment.

When it comes to self-sustainability, growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs at home can be an amazing way to reduce your carbon footprint and ensure you have access to fresh, nutritious food all year round. Plus, growing your own plants can be a cost-effective way to source organic produce.

How to start growing indoor plants

The first step in starting to grow indoor plants is choosing the right plants. Some plants are better suited for indoor growing than others. Plants that require a lot of sunlight, for example, may not thrive indoors unless you have access to a south-facing window or grow lights. Some examples of plants that are suitable for indoor growing include herbs like basil, parsley and thyme, green leafy vegetables like spinach and lettuce, and fruits like tomatoes and strawberries.

Once you've chosen the plants you want to grow, you'll need to select the type of container you're going to grow them in. This can vary depending on the type of plant and available space. In general, you should choose containers that are deep enough to accommodate the plant's root system and have drainage holes to prevent overwatering.

The next step is to choose the soil type. The soil should be rich in nutrients and well drained. Some types of plants, such as succulents, prefer sandy soil, while others, such as green leafy vegetables, prefer soil that is richer in organic matter. You can buy premixed soil or make your own by mixing equal parts sand, soil, and compost.

The last step is planting. Seeds should be planted according to package directions. In general, seeds are planted at a depth of about twice their diameter. Once planted, the seeds should be watered regularly, but not excessively, as this can lead to root rot.

Plant maintenance

Plant maintenance is a crucial part of growing indoor plants. This includes regularly watering the plants, ensuring they receive the proper amount of light, and fertilizing the soil as needed.

Plants should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. The amount of water needed varies depending on the type of plant and the size of the container. In general, it's better to water less than more, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Plants must also receive adequate light. Some plants require direct light, while others prefer indirect light. If natural light is not available, you can use grow lights.

Finally, the plants will need to be fertilized regularly to ensure they receive the nutrients they need. You can use an organic fertilizer such as compost or manure, or a synthetic fertilizer. Be sure to follow the fertilizer instructions to avoid overfeeding the plants.

In summary, growing indoor plants can be a wonderful way to bring a bit of nature indoors and become more self-sustaining. With a little planning and maintenance, you can grow a wide variety of plants, including vegetables and herbs, in the comfort of your own home.

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