When it comes to caring for your plants, regular watering is just the beginning: Show your potted babies a little extra love, and they’ll reward you with vibrant, beautiful growth. And one of the most fun ways to pile on the TLC is with a plant spa day.
Just like a human spa day, this is a moment for pampering and primping. In one day, you’ll give your plants the little extra care they need to thrive — care that isn’t part of your weekly maintenance routine. It’s the houseplant version of cucumber water, a facial, and a mani/pedi. Try it if your plants are looking sad, or if you just want to add some oomph to your watering schedule. Throw on some tunes and have fun with it!
Take your plants (in their pots!) to the sink or bathtub for a proper drench, watering until they’re soaked through. This might feel like overwatering, but it’s actually deep watering: By thoroughly watering the plants and allowing them to drain freely, you’re ensuring that the roots are well hydrated without water-logging them.
Think of Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food like the shot of wheatgrass in your morning smoothie: It instantly delivers a balanced dose of the nutrients that help your plants thrive. (Those would be nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.) Mix Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food into your watering can while you’re at the sink or add it directly to the soil according to the package instructions. Your plants will perk up in gratitude!
Brown leaves are part of the circle of plant life! While your pots continue draining, remove dead leaves and other plant matter as needed. This is also a great time to trim overgrowth and take cuttings. Just remember to cut right above a leaf node and sterilize your scissors with rubbing alcohol between plants.
Did you know that dust can keep leaves from getting adequate sunlight? It’s also a prime hiding spot for pests! Wipe down large, flat leaves — like those on monsteras and palms — with a damp cloth. You’ll help them sparkle and stay disease-free.
Many popular houseplants, like peace lilies and philodendrons, originate in tropical climates — which is probably not how you’d describe your house. Running a cool air humidifier will mimic that moist air and keep plants from drying out. Try it while they’re draining in the sink or, really, anytime — especially during cold months when the heat is cranked up!
After an hour or so, your plants’ pots should be well-drained and their leaves should look extra luscious. (If any plants seemed especially unhappy, this is a good moment to make sure they’re in the best spot for their light needs.) Towel off the pots, return everyone to their perches, and watch them thrive!
