Caring For Rare and Exotic Plants: A Guide for Plant Enthusiasts

Rare and exotic plants bring a unique charm to any collection, but they can also present some challenges. Unlike typical houseplants, these uncommon beauties often have specific needs that can be tricky to meet. But don’t worry, caring for these plants is not impossible! it’s about understanding their origins and mimicking their natural environment. Here’s how to get started on nurturing theses treasures.

Light Sensitivity: The Right Balance

Exotic plants, such as Calatheas, Philodendron and Alocasias are often tropical and thrive in dappled sunlight. This means they prefer indirect light rather than harsh, direct sun rays that can scorch their delicate leaves. In their natural environment, these plants grow beneath the canopy of the trees in a rainforest. Try placing your rare plants near East facing windows where they can get soft morning sunlight or use sheer curtains to filter stronger light.

Tip: Rotate your plants regularly to ensure even light exposure and avoid leggy growth

Humidity: Not JUst an Afterthought

Most rare plants come from humid climates, meaning dry indoor air can spell trouble for them. Take, for example, the extraordinary Monstera Thai Constellation or the timeless Anthurium Clarinervium. They demand humidity levels if 60% or higher. To replicate these conditions, use a humidifier near your plant collection, group your plants together to create a microclimate or place them in a more humid room like bathrooms. Misting alone won’t be enough, but it can help in a combination with other methods.

Pro Tip: A pebble tray filled with water underneath the plant can also boost levels naturally.

Water with Precision

The biggest killer of exotic plants is overwatering, leading to the dreaded root rot. Plants like the Variegated Monstera or the Ficus Elastica ‘Tineke’ have more sensitive roots and need a well draining potting mix. Refer to Blog: The Ulitmate Guide To Potting Mixes: Materials, Types and Custom Blends — The Urban Jungle Society. Use a Combination of perlite, orchid bark and coconut coir to ensure your plants don’t sit in soggy soil. Always check the top 2.5cm of soil for moisture or your moisture meters before watering again. Make sure your pots have proper drainage

Golden Rule: Water less frequently, but deeply. Watering quickly, even if repeated regularly, does not really help the plants because the water does not penetrate deeply enough.

Temperature: Keep It Cozy

Exotic plants thrive in stable temperatures. Sudden changes such as drafts from air conditioner or heaters can stress your plant out. The sweet spot for most rare and exotic plants is between 18C and 27C. Remember cold temperatures can make certain plants go dormant. Avoid placing your plants near windowsills during the cold months or near heating vents where the air may dry them out.

Nutrients: Feed Them the Good Stuff

These plants aren’t just rare in appearance, they often require a nutrient rich diet to maintain their health and unique features. Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half-strength or to the manufacturer’s instructions every two to four weeks during the growing season (Spring and Summer). For particularly delicate plants, organic fertilizers like worm casting or seaweed solution can be more gentle yet effective. Head to our Shop and find our large selection of fertilizers.

Special Care for the Truly Unique

Some rare plants have quirks that make them even more special. Take the Blue Star Fern, it prefers to dry out almost entirely between watering but loves humidity. Then there’s bonsai, which requires consistent pruning and root maintenance. Understand each plants quirks and cater to them accordingly.

Conclusion: Not All Rare Plants Are Difficult- Just Different

Caring for rare and exotic plants isn’t about following strict rules. It’s about adapting to the unique needs of each plant and finding the right balance that work in your space. While they might seem a little bit challenging, the key is observation and patience. You’ll learn something new with every plant you care for and reap the reqards they offer when they thrive under your care.

So, Step out of your comfort zone and bring the extraordinary into your very own urban jungle! These plants will thank you with their breathtaking beauty and uniqueness.

Now, armed with this knowledge. What Exotic plant will you take on next? The journey of caring for rare plants is as reqrding as the plants themselves. Start experimenting and watch your urban jungle flourish!!

#GROWYOURURBANJUNGLE

Kenny - The Urban Jungle Society