Jan Goldsmith, host of HGTV's The Great Indoors, explains some of the basics of caring for indoor plants. Never water with cold water. Use tepid water, or allow the watering can to sit overnight. This also minimizes the amount of chlorine, a chemical harmful to many delicate indoor plants. Use a weak solution of water-soluble fertilizer every time you water indoor plants. Follow label directions, or use the product at one-half strength. Give plants a rest in winter, cutting back on water and eliminating fertilizer. Plants can't photosynthesize properly with a layer of dust on their leaves. Keep them clean by giving them monthly showers with tepid water. You can rinse them off outdoors, in a protected area out of direct sunlight, or in your bathtub. Make sure you use warm water. Remove yellow leaves and faded flowers to keep plants healthy. Decomposing foliage is a great place for insect or fungus infestations to start. Placing plants in the proper spots also helps keep them healthy. Don't place shade-loving plants in the sun or vice-versa.
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