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< Back Aglaonema species & cultivars Chinese Evergreen Aglaonema, commonly known as Chinese Evergreen, is a popular houseplant native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. These plants are widely cultivated for their attractive foliage and easy-to-care nature, making them an excellent choice for novice gardeners. In this blog post, we will discuss the origin, habitat, popular cultivars, and plant care of Aglaonema. Aglaonema belongs to the Araceae family and is native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. These plants are usually found growing under the canopy of larger trees, where they receive filtered sunlight and a humid environment. They are multi-stemmed herbaceous perennial growing up to 100 cm tall (though usually shorter) producing medium to large, either solid green leaves or leaves with varying amounts of white, yellow, pink and red variegation making them very showy. Flowers are produced at the top of the stems amongst the foliage but are rather insignificant. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 10ᐤ C may result in damage to leaves while temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Green leaved varieties can stand full shade but the variegated varieties need bright locations but not exposed to direct sunlight which will burn the leaves. Watering: Aglaonema plants can be fairly drought resistant as water is stored in the flesh stems; water should only be given when the top 3 cm of the soil is dry. As a rule of thumb, that roughly translates to watering once a week during the rainy season, once every two weeks in the cold dry season and once to twice a week during the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove damaged or drying leaves and flowers as necessary. Tall leggy plants can be pruned down to near the soil level and new shoots will be produced in about 3 months. Plants can be repotted every two or three years. Pests/Diseases: Plants are susceptible to aphids, scale, spider mites and root mealy bug. The most common diseases are root rots brought about from overwatering. < Back Next

< Back Schlumbergera cultivars Winter Cactus | Christmas Cactus | Easter Cactus Winter cacti are popular houseplants known for their vibrant flowers and easy-care requirements. Native to the rainforests of Brazil, they belong to the Schlumbergera genus and are commonly known as Thanksgiving cactus, Christmas cactus, or Easter cactus, depending on their bloom time. In this blog post, we will discuss the origin and habitat of winter cacti, as well as popular cultivars and their care requirements. Origin and Habitat: Winter cacti are native to the coastal mountains of southeastern Brazil, where they grow in the shady understory of rainforests. They are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants, such as trees, but do not take nutrients from them. Instead, they absorb nutrients and moisture from the air and rain. Habit: Slow growing, small cacti producing semi-erect to arching flat, broad, slightly toothed stem segments that act as leaves as the plants do not produce any actual leaves. Flowers are produced in the axils of the toothed sections of the outer stem segments in colours of pink, red, orange, lavender-purple and white. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 27ᐤ C during the growing season and temperatures between 10 to 15ᐤ C during the cold dormant season. Light Exposure: Plants do best in bright, indirect light to thrive and grow well. They can withstand lower light situations but will not grow very strongly, will appear stretched (etiolated) and will tend to be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Plants exposed to direct sunlight will develop scorched and burnt leaves reducing the beauty of the plant. Watering: Water your cactus when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to water thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Avoid letting the cactus sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Given that the plants are potted in a very free draining medium, they can be watered once a week during the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once to twice during the hot dry season. Humidity: Winter cacti prefer moderate to high humidity. If your home is dry, mist your cactus occasionally with a spray bottle or place a tray of water near it to increase humidity. Fertilising: Winter Cacti need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength only once per month. Plants can be damaged by over fertilizing so one must be careful. Pruning/Repotting: Winter cacti prefer to be slightly root-bound, so only repot them every few years. When you do repot, use a well-draining soil mix, such as cactus potting mix. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Pruning is mainly only needed to help shape the plant and repotting is usually necessary only when a plant outgrows its pot or to refresh the media when repotting into the same sized pot. Pest Control: Common pests that can affect winter cacti include spider mites and mealybugs. If you notice tiny webs or cottony masses on your cactus, these may be signs of an infestation. Treat pests with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. < Back Next

< Back Clivia miniata Natal Lily Natal lily, also known as Clivia miniata, is a stunning plant that originated from South Africa. This evergreen perennial belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family and is commonly cultivated for its striking orange, red or yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. In this blog post, we will explore the origin, habitat and popular cultivars of Natal lily, as well as the best practices for light, fertilising, plant care including potting up, watering, humidity and pest control. Origin and Habitat Natal lily is native to South Africa, specifically the province of KwaZulu-Natal. It was named after Lady Charlotte Clive, the Duchess of Northumberland, who was a keen collector of rare plants during the 19th century. The plant grows naturally in the understory of subtropical and tropical forests, where it receives filtered light and moist soil. The plant is a popular ornamental plant worldwide, and many cultivars have been developed to suit various environments. Habit: Rhizomatous perennial producing dark green strap-shaped leaves and bearing an umbel of dull to bright orange or occasionally yellow trumpet-like flowers. Temperature: During the growing season from spring to early fall plants grow best between 18 to 25ᐤ C; however, during late fall and winter when plants are ‘resting’, temperatures around 10ᐤ C are required to initiate flowering. Avoid temperatures below 4ᐤ C as it may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in dark locations. Watering: Clivia like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every five or six weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing or brown leaves as necessary and cut spent flower stalks after flowering has finished. Clivia like to be root-bound and repotting may only be needed every five or six years. Natal lily can be prone to pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, such as webbing or white powdery substance on the leaves. If pests are present, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil following the instructions on the package. In conclusion, Natal lily is a stunning plant that is easy to care for and can be grown indoors or outdoors in subtropical and tropical regions. By providing the right amount of light, fertilizing, potting up, watering, humidity, and pest control, you can enjoy the beauty of this plant for years to come. < Back Next

< Back Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’ Spider plant Spider plants, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, are one of the most popular houseplants around. They are known for their long, slender leaves that arch gracefully from the center of the plant, earning them the nickname "airplane plant." In this blog post, we'll explore the origin and habitat of the spider plant, as well as popular cultivars, and tips for light, fertilizing, plant care, including potting up, watering, humidity, and pest control. Origin and Habitat The spider plant is native to tropical and southern Africa, from Sudan to South Africa. In the wild, spider plants grow as ground cover in shaded forests, sending out long runners with baby spider plants or plantlets that take root in the soil. This is why spider plants are so easy to propagate and share with friends. Habit: Low growing herbaceous perennial with arching grass-like green nd white leaves and long hanging bunches of white flowers that develop into little plantlets. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in dark locations. Watering: Chlorophytum like a moist growing medium but not saturated; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Spider plants like to be slightly pot-bound, so it's best not to over-pot them. When the roots begin to outgrow the pot, you can transplant them into a larger pot or divide them into smaller plants. Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every two or three years once the roots have filled the pot. Pest Control: Spider plants are relatively pest-free, but they can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation, such as webbing or white, cotton-like spots on the leaves. If you do notice pests, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. In conclusion, spider plants are easy to care for and make a beautiful addition to any home. With a little bit of attention and care, your spider plant will thrive and bring joy for years to come. < Back Next

< Back Costus afer Spiral Ginger Costus afer, also known as Bush cane or Spiral ginger, is a species of flowering plant in the family Costaceae. It is native to tropical West Africa, particularly Nigeria, and has become popular as an ornamental plant in many other parts of the world due to its striking appearance and ease of care. Habitat and Popular Cultivars Costus afer grows in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and along riverbanks. It is a clumping plant that can grow up to six feet tall and four feet wide. The plant produces spiral-like inflorescences that can be pink, orange, or red in color, depending on the cultivar. Habit: An upright to spreading perennial growing up to 1.5 m tall indoors producing bamboo-like stems that spiral in a clockwise or counter-clockwise fashion bearing the leaves on the outside of the spiral and clusters of light pink flowers from a cone-like structure at the top of each stem. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to weak direct light (either early morning or late afternoon sun). When placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow rapidly and fall off. Watering: Spiral Ginger like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing leaves and withering stems to keep the plant tidy. Tall leggy plants can be cut down to just above soil level and allowed to reshoot. Spiral ginger can grow quite vigorously and may need dividing every three or four years; clumps can be cut in half or quarters and repotted into appropriately sized pots. Pest Control: Common pests that can affect Costus afer include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil, but it is important to ensure that the product is safe for use on the specific plant species. In conclusion, Costus afer is a striking and easy-to-care-for plant that can be grown in a variety of settings. By providing the plant with appropriate lighting, fertilizing, potting up, watering, humidity, and pest control, it can thrive and provide a beautiful addition to any garden or indoor space. < Back Next

< Back Chamaedorea cataractarum Cat Palm Habit: Slow growing small to medium sized clumping upright to arching palm growing up to 100 cm tall with slender green pinnate leaves and bright yellow pendulous inflorescences. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. If watered more frequently, plants can withstand some direct sun but tend to become more tattered in appearance. Watering: The Cat Palm should be watered enough to keep the root ball evenly moist but not soggy. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season should be sufficient. In addition, misting the fronds during hot dry weather will keep plants looking good. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Plants are susceptible to the buildup of salts in the soil either from over fertilization or the use of hard water, which is high in calcium. Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every three or four years once the roots have filled the pot. Pests/Diseases: Cat Palms are generally pest and disease free; however, plants can be affected by spider mites during times of low humidity. < Back Next

< Back Haemanthus albiflos Paintbrush Lily Habit: Short evergreen bulbous perennial growing up to 30 cm tall producing strap-shaped thick almost succulent leaves and paintbrush-looking flowers usually between April and July (in the southern hemisphere). Temperature: During the growing season from spring to early fall plants grow best between 18 to 25ᐤ C; however, during late fall and winter when plants are ‘resting’, temperatures around 10ᐤ C are required to initiate flowering. Avoid temperatures below 4ᐤ C as it may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in very dark locations. Watering: Paintbrush Lily like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every five or six weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing or brown leaves as necessary and cut spent flower stalks after flowering has finished. Paintbrush Lily like to be root-bound and repotting may only be needed every five or six years. Pests/Diseases: Paintbrush Lily is relatively pest free but the leaves can be attacked by the Lily borer which can quickly eat through the leaf and then affect the bulb; currently, no known fungal pathogens cause any damage to the Paintbrush Lily. < Back Next

< Back Succulents Cacti, Agave, Aloe, Sedum, Sanseviera Among the myriad of plant species, cacti, agave, aloe, and euphorbia stand out as remarkable representatives of their respective plant groups. These fascinating plants not only captivate us with their unique appearances but also thrive in various environments with minimal care. In this blog post, we will delve into the similarities and differences among these plant groups and provide insights into their care requirements. Cacti: Majestic Succulents of the Desert: Cacti are renowned for their distinct architectural shapes, water-storing capabilities, and spiny exteriors. They belong to the family Cactaceae and are primarily native to arid regions in the Americas. The key characteristic that sets cacti apart is their ability to store water in their thick, fleshy stems or pads, allowing them to survive in harsh desert conditions. Some popular cacti include the prickly pear, barrel cactus, and saguaro cactus. Care for Cacti: Light: Cacti thrive in bright, direct sunlight, so place them near a sunny window or in a sunny outdoor location. Water: Water cacti deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. Temperature: Most cacti prefer warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Agave: Bold and Striking Succulents: Belonging to the Agavoideae family, agaves are succulent plants with distinctive rosette forms and thick, fleshy leaves. These plants are native to arid regions of the Americas and are renowned for their architectural beauty. Agaves come in a variety of sizes and leaf colors, with some species displaying stunning variegation. The century plant (Agave americana) and the blue agave (Agave tequilana) are well-known examples. Care for Agave: Light: Agaves thrive in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Agaves are drought-tolerant and prefer infrequent but deep watering. Soil: Plant agaves in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Temperature: Most agave species prefer temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). Aloe: Healing Wonders of Nature: Aloes belong to the family Asphodelaceae and are known for their medicinal properties and rosette-shaped succulent leaves. Native to Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula, aloes exhibit a wide range of forms, from small ornamental species to large, tree-like varieties. The gel inside their leaves is renowned for its healing properties and is commonly used in skincare products. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) is the most widely recognized species. Care for Aloe: Light: Aloes thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. A south- or west-facing window is ideal. Water: Water aloes deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Soil: Use a well-draining succulent mix or a combination of regular potting soil and sand. Temperature: Most aloes prefer temperatures between 55°F and 80°F (13 < Back Next

< Back Philodendron burle marx Philodendron burle marx Philodendron Burle Marx, or Philodendron hederaceum 'Burle Marx', is a beautiful and popular tropical plant that is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and easy care. This plant is native to Brazil and was named after Roberto Burle Marx, a famous Brazilian landscape architect and artist who loved to incorporate tropical plants into his designs. The plant is a member of the Araceae family, which includes other popular houseplants like Monsteras and Peace Lilies. In its natural habitat, Philodendron Burle Marx can be found growing as an epiphyte in the rainforests of Brazil. It typically grows on trees or other plants, using them for support, and can reach up to 6 feet tall. The plant has a unique growth habit, with long, vining stems that can climb or trail. It also produces aerial roots that help it to cling onto surfaces and absorb nutrients. Habit: A slow to medium growing shrub up to about 60 cm tall and 60 to 100 cm wide; however, if staked and trained, plants can grow slightly taller. From the rather stout stems, plants produce masses of shiny, narrowly heart-shaped leaves. A great generally easy and fuss free plant. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants as the leaflets can get tattered. Light Exposure: Plants do best in bright, indirect light to thrive and grow well. They can withstand lower light situations but will not grow very strongly, will appear stretched (etiolated) and will tend to be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Plants exposed to direct sunlight will develop scorched and burnt leaves reducing the beauty of the plant. Watering: The plants like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 to 5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and usually twice a week in the hot dry season. In addition, regularly misting the leaves in the hot dry season will help keep the foliage looking great. Humidity: This plant thrives in high humidity environments. If you live in a dry climate, consider placing a humidifier near the plant or setting it on a tray of pebbles filled with water. You can also mist the plant regularly to increase humidity. Avoid placing the plant near air vents or heaters, as this can cause the air to dry out. Fertilising: Philodendron plants are generally heavy feeders and give them a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: When potting up a Philodendron Burle Marx, it is important to use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers to be slightly root-bound, so choose a pot that is just slightly larger than the current one. When repotting, gently remove the plant from its current pot and loosen the roots before placing it into the new pot. Be sure to water the plant thoroughly after potting up. Remove yellowing, brown or heavily damaged leaves as necessary. Repotting of the plants will depend on its growth rate but plants usually indicate that they should be repotted once the roots really start growing out the bottom of the pot. Ideally repot in the spring into a pot one or maybe two sizes larger than what it is currently growing in. Pests/Diseases: Burle Marx is relatively resistant to pests and diseases if well looked after and happy; however, they can be attacked by thrips, mealy bug and spider mites. Diseases that affect the plants are usually caused by overwatering which can invite fungal and bacterial pathogens that cause root rots and leaf spot problems. You can remove pests by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap. Be sure to isolate the plant if you notice any pests to prevent them from spreading to other plants. < Back Next

< Back Chamaedorea elegans Parlour Palm If you're looking for a houseplant that is low maintenance, visually appealing and adds a touch of green to your living space, look no further than the parlour palm. With its elegant fronds and compact size, this plant is a popular choice for indoor decoration. Origin and Habitat The parlour palm, also known as Chamaedorea elegans, is native to Mexico and Guatemala. It is a member of the Arecaceae family and is one of over 100 species of Chamaedorea. In the wild, it grows as an understory plant in the shade of taller trees. Its natural habitat is a tropical forest, where it can grow up to six feet tall. However, in indoor settings, it typically reaches a height of two to four feet. Habit: Slow growing single-stemmed woody plant with slender green trunk up to 3 m tall, or rarely 5 m tall. Plants sport a crown of numerous bright green pinnate leaves and yellow to orange-red fragrant flowers borne on branched panicles that emerge from the stem below the leaves. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in dark locations. Watering: The Parlour Palm should be watered enough to keep the root ball evenly moist but not soggy. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season should be sufficient. In addition, misting the fronds during hot dry weather will keep plants looking good. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every three or four years once the roots have filled the pot. Pests/Diseases: Parlour Palms are generally pest and disease free; however, plants can be affected by mealy bug and spider mites during times of low humidity. In addition, overwatering is the leading cause of root rot in plants. In conclusion, the parlour palm is a versatile and easy-to-care-for houseplant that adds a touch of elegance to any living space. With proper care, it can thrive for many years, making it a great investment for plant enthusiasts of all skill levels. < Back Next

< Back Chamaedorea seifrizii Bamboo Palm The bamboo palm, also known as the reed palm or Chamaedorea seifrizii, is a popular indoor plant that originated from Central and South America. It can be found growing in the understory of rainforests, where it thrives in shaded areas with high humidity levels. This tropical plant is a member of the Arecaceae family and is well-known for its attractive fronds and easy-to-care-for nature. Habit: Slow growing tall clump-forming plant with slender bamboo-like stems growing up to 2-3 m tall and 1 m wide indoors. Plants sport a crown of numerous bright green pinnate leaves and yellow flowers borne on short panicles that emerge from the stem below the leaves. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in dark locations. Watering: The Parlour Palm should be watered enough to keep the root ball evenly moist but not soggy. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season should be sufficient. In addition, misting the fronds during hot dry weather will keep plants looking good. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Plants are susceptible to the buildup of salts in the soil either from over fertilization or the use of hard water, which is high in calcium. Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every three or four years once the roots have filled the pot. Pests/Diseases: Bamboo Palms are generally pest and disease free; however, plants can be affected by mealy bug and spider mites during times of low humidity. In addition, overcrowding of the plant#s stems can reduce air flow within the plant making the leaves more susceptible to fungal pathogens. In conclusion, the bamboo palm is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an attractive and easy-to-care-for indoor plant. Its origin and habitat, popular cultivars, and plant care requirements have been discussed in this blog post. With proper care, your bamboo palm will thrive and add a touch of tropical beauty to your home. < Back Next

< Back Lawn Care Bermuda, Buffalo, Kapinga Having a lush and healthy lawn can enhance the beauty of your property and provide a space for outdoor activities. If you're a homeowner in Zambia, you may be interested in planting and maintaining a lawn using one of the common grass types found in the country, such as buffalo grass, Bermuda grass, or Kapinga grass. Buffalo grass is a warm-season grass that is well adapted to hot and dry conditions. It has a coarse texture and is known for its low maintenance requirements. Bermuda grass, on the other hand, is a fine-textured grass that grows well in hot and humid environments. Kapinga grass is an indigenous grass species that is well adapted to local conditions and will grow anywhere where land is left undisturbed. When planting a lawn from seed, it's important to first prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris. You can then loosen the soil using a rake or tiller and mix in some compost or other organic material to improve soil quality. Follow the instructions on the seed package to determine the appropriate seeding rate and planting depth. After planting, water the area regularly to keep the soil moist until the grass is established. Planting a lawn from cuttings, also known as sod, can provide more immediate results. To plant sod, you'll need to prepare the soil in the same way as when planting from seed. Then, lay the sod pieces tightly together in a staggered pattern to avoid gaps. After laying the sod, water the area regularly to keep the soil moist and encourage the roots to grow into the soil. To maintain a healthy lawn, it's important to regularly water, fertilize, and mow the grass. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Fertilization should be done according to the grass type and the recommended schedule. When mowing, it's important not to cut the grass too short, as this can damage the roots and make the grass more susceptible to stress and disease. By following these tips for planting and maintaining a lawn, you can enjoy a beautiful and healthy outdoor space that enhances the value of your property. < Back Next

< Back Ficus lyrata Fiddle Leaf Fig The fiddle leaf fig is native to western Africa, specifically Cameroon, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. It is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 50 feet tall in its natural habitat. The fiddle leaf fig is part of the Moraceae family, which includes other fig trees. Habit: Indoors plants are grown in the shape of a small tree (standard) or a multi-stemmed shrub up to 2 m tall with woody stems and branches bearing solid green or rarely green and white or green and yellow variegated leaves. The large fig fruits are rarely produced on indoor potted plants. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Fiddle leaf figs thrive in bright, indirect light. They do not do well in direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. If your fiddle leaf fig is not getting enough light, its leaves may turn yellow and fall off. On the other hand, if it is getting too much light, its leaves may develop brown spots. Indoors, both the solid green leaf and variegated leaved plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to direct light. If placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow rapidly and fall and the plant will start to decline. Watering: Fiddle leaf fig likes a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 5-10 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once or twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove any yellowing or brown and dry leaves as needed; occasionally small to medium sized branches will die back and dry and these stems should be pruned out. Weeping figs can stay in the same pot for a number of years if you want to keep the plant from growing larger; if you want the plant to grow larger repot in spring to a slightly larger pot. Fiddle leaf figs are prone to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. If you notice any of these pests on your plant, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also prevent pest infestations by regularly cleaning the leaves with a damp cloth and keeping the plant in a well-ventilated area. In conclusion, the fiddle leaf fig is a beautiful and elegant houseplant that can add a touch of sophistication to any home. By following the proper plant care guidelines, including providing it with the right amount of light, fertiliser, potting, watering, humidity, and pest control, your fiddle leaf fig can thrive for many years to come. < Back Next

We partner with like minded organisations who would like to use our space to promote their message or product. Advertise with us THIS WEBSITE IS A GREAT PLACE TO GET YOUR BUSINESS ONLINE Greenspace is a source of useful information, advice for people who want to promote healthy lifestyle choices here in Zambia. We have a growing online audience and a monthly newsletter through which you can communicate your message. We partner with businesses and projects that compliment our philosophy and are organic, environmentally friendly. This include plant nurseries, garden and agricultural equipment suppliers and producers of eco-friendly products. We reserve the right to decline any advert that we believe may undermine the message of sustainability that we are promoting. We have a growing online audience of people interesting in urban gardening and urban agriculture, through social media and a monthly newsletter, through which you can communicate your message. SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER Website Banner block are available on the homepage and other pages of the website. Garden Directory The Garden Directory Page provides free listing of businesses and sponsored featured sections. Social Media Collaborations are available on your Youtube, Facebook and Twitter pages. Newsletter Our newsletter features issues and trends in gardening including active promotions. Our Audience Greenspace Zambia is active on six channels; Google (Website & Business Profile), Youtube , Facebook (including the Ecofriendly Gardening in Zambia Group ), Instagram , X , LinkedIn and also publish a monthly email newsletter . Our target audience is urban residents in Zambia who are interested in home gardening, in these main categories; creating beautiful gardens, growing food and encouraging biodiversity. Our combined audience as of April 2024 is about 6000, with the largest proportion based in Zambia; Lusaka and other urban areas. All of this people have subscribed specifically to receive information on Zambian gardening and urban environment. Many members of our audience subscribed because of the video content which few companies in the horticultural industry do consistently. This provides a good opportunity for organisations that have environmentally friendly products and services and well as health as lifestyle brands to speak more directly to this group of people. As many digital marketers know, subscriptions are nice but engagement is a better metric to determine if investment in advertising will convert. Not only do we have a large organic reach but we also have a reasonable level of engagement i.e. people commenting, liking and sharing. This is a good measure of how much your audience 'cares' about the post content they are seeing. The Thinking Green Newsletter A growing number of people in Zambia, do want to connect to a community which is made up of people who genuinely want to be eco-friendly. We facilitate this through our newsletter where we share updates of what is happening in the gardening and green community. Newsletters are known for having a higher conversion rate. This is because people receive it directly into a personal space that they check regularly, compared to social media where they can miss a post if they check late. Because of the relationship of trust that is built by being consistent with our content they are more likely to read the emails we send. One line advert space (with link)is available for free in this monthly newsletter. Download our advertising rates

Corporate Plant Gallery The Secret to Long-Lasting Indoor Plants Plants naturally thrive outdoors, where they receive the right balance of light, water, and nutrients. When moved indoors and confined to containers, they face new challenges, limited light, air conditioning, and frequent contact in busy areas, all of which can cause gradual decline. In addition, plants also need a holiday - a chance to get out of the office and back into fresh air. In the absence of experienced and patient staff to look after these indoor and container plants, there will be a gradual deterioration in the appearance of the plants over several months. Our maintenance service ensures our indoor plants remain vibrant through regular care, cleaning, and rotation. We also keep a wide range of shade-tolerant plants in our shade house, ready to replace or refresh displays as needed. The Greenspace Plant Collection We have 2 shade houses with a store of plants for indoors, entryways and verandas around offices. We consider the plant maintenance service to be a collaborative service; we work together with the client to clarify and understand expectations. Over time, we expand and refine our collection to match each client’s specific environment, ensuring a unique aesthetic for the office and a continuous stream of healthy plants. Small or Desk-top Plants Small pots (12-15cm pots) are visually appealing, whether displayed individually on a desk or grouped together to create a larger feature. They work well for highlighting specific spaces, though they do require more frequent watering due to their size. To make maintenance easier, we’ve selected resilient plant varieties that can stay looking fresh for a week or two between our visits. 20230706_092646 Anthurium Golden Pothos Philodendron Pepperomia Ovata Philodendron Silver Sword Philodendron Brazil Syngonium Syngonium Syngonium Snake Plant - Trifasciata Snake Plant Snake Plant Birdsnest Snake Plant Agleomena Agleomena Medium Plants Medium pots (20-25cm pots) are visually appealing, whether displayed individually on a desk or grouped together to create a larger feature. They work well for highlighting specific spaces, though they do require more frequent watering due to their size. To make maintenance easier, we’ve selected resilient plant varieties that can stay looking fresh for a week or two between our visits. Syngonium Syngonium Syngonium Syngonium Syngonium Anthurium Ficus Golden Pothos Boston Ferns Boston Ferns Agleomena Agleomena Aglaonema Aglaonema Aglaonema Aglaonema Aglaonema Agelomena Large Plants Medium-sized plants (30-35 cm pots) are typically shade-tolerant shrubs or small trees, usually growing up to about 1.5 metres in height. They work really good as a feature plant and also lining corridors and large areas. Philodendron Burle Marx Giant Peace Lilly ZZ Plant Ficus Lyrata Draceana Cut Palm Lady Finger Palm Bamboo Palm Fish Tail Palm Ficus The Process Many offices will request simple statement plants which will help create a good impression or increase employee wellbeing. Other businesses require a more specific selection of plants to create a tropical look or enhance an urban aesthetic for example. It can be a process to find out what would suit your space so it is worth engaging in the process so we can be sure we have the right selection for you. 1. Initial Site Visit We begin with an on-site assessment to understand your space, lighting, and environmental conditions. This helps us determine which plants will thrive and how best to integrate greenery into your interior design. We also like to hear your ideas for how you would like your space to look, particular plants that you were considering and any other design elements that you may have in mind. The plant gallery above shows what we have in stock at the moment and we can consider other plants that you may have in mind. 2. Plant Selection and Research Based on our findings, we research plant availability and recommend suitable plant varieties. 3. Follow-Up Site Visit We return to confirm placement details, refine selections, and discuss any adjustments to the proposed layout or maintenance needs before finalizing the plan. 4. Quotation and Project Plan Once the design is approved, we provide a detailed quotation and project plan outlining plant choices, installation timelines, and maintenance schedules for a smooth, professional rollout. Plant pots Container pots We pot up all our plants in plastic inner pots with drip trays. These can be displayed as they are or placed within a decorative cover pot. Our quotations for rental services will be based on these 3 pot sizes. Pot sizes range from: Small 12.5-15cm diameter Medium 20-25cm diameter Large 30cm-35cm diameter Extra large 43-58cm diameter As a general rule, in order to maintain balance the ratio of plant height to plant pot (or cover pot) is up to 2:1. So for example a 15 cm pot can have a plant up to 30 cm tall. However, larger pots will usually have taller plants. This can give you an idea of how tall the different size pots and plants can be in your space. Cover pots Cover pots are the ornamental pots in which plants are placed. In office environments it is not ideal to plant directly into these decorative pots because it affect how you water the plant and make its difficult to clean the area or change the plants. We highly recommend that corporate clients source their own cover pots, that suit the interior design of their space. We then place our plants in appropriate pots to fit inside these cover pots. At the moment, Greenspace Zambia, we only offer fabric pot covers. Local Retail Suppliers Cover pots can be found in certain local retailers, who may also be willing to source specific goods for corporate clients: Builders Warehouse - Eastpark & Cosmo Mall Orca Deco, Mandahill Mall Pound stretcher, Kafue Rd Local Crafts Local artisans can create cover pots out of terracota, cement or even fabric and woven grass. Unfortunately many of these craftsment do not have a strong online presence so you may have to ask around to find them. Afrikolor Pottery Lyn's Ceramics Iza Artisan Crafts Regional Suppliers For Commercial projects it may be necessary to import planters. Take a look at these commercial planter manufacturers based in South Africa: Obliggato All Sorted Plantr Our Clients

Help us create educational content on gardening in Zambia so we can be more responsible in our gardening choices. We use media to spread the message about green issues Why we do what we do CURRENT VACANCIES Volunteer Researcher / Writer Volunteer Media Officer Gardening, agriculture, and environment all involve growing plants and using land to produce food or beautiful plants. In Zambia, a significant amount of land is used for these purposes every year. The key to success is having fertile soil, enough water, and biodiversity . But no matter which activity we engage in, it affects the environment. By using media to promote appropriate plants and gardening methods in all three areas, we can improve soil quality, increase biodiversity, and promote long-term productivity while mitigating climate change. DIGITAL MEDIA SERVICES Reach a new online audience. We provide a suite of digital services to help small businesses expand their digital footprint. Our Youtube Channels Greenspace Zambia A general platform where we share a diverse range of on home gardening and urban environment. The website also provides a range of practicable information. Zambeziflora A specialsed platform for indigenous plant enthusiasts where we collect projects around Zambian plants and Zambian botany. Homestead Zambia This channel will look at sustainable gardening and as it developes further it will take a focus on small scale agriculture and the concept of 'living off the land' Let's focus on the people in Zambia who are making change Then it comes to gardening and the environment, w e frequently focus on the challenges we face but we sometimes can miss the small signs of progress. There are so many stories to tell, garden enthusiasts who are doing amazing things in their backyards, there are small businesses who are working to grow our local gardening industry, there are nature lovers who commit to conserving that the environment around them. As we develop our project we will be able to help people tell their stories and inspire their communities. Support the Vision Quality content creation costs time and money and we always appreciate financial support to pay some of the expenses behind production. These costs include software, transport and data for our volunteer contributors. Your financial support would help use produce content consistently on our digital platforms. If you are interested in sponsoring or donating to the media production of a series, we would be glad to chat with you you further. Please email us on hello.greenspacezambia@gmail.com for more information. Let's make Zambia green again! Volunteer Volunteer on the Media Team This initiative is run by volunteers who commit their time to research, script, record and edit videos. We are always looking for experienced creatives that are willing to volunteer to find new ways to spread the concept of eco-friendly lifestyles as well as expand their own experience and influence. Videography Being able to capture the right content is key so if you are experienced in photography or videography or film production please email us with your CV and links to some of your work. Storytelling If you have the vivacious personality of a presenter, or the coordinating skills of a producer let us know and we may be able to use you on one of our shows. Send us your CV and include links to some of your work. GRAPHIC DESIGN If you have the technical skills to support your creative ideas then we want to hear from you. This includes design of websites, video editing, social media posts. Send us your CV and include links to some of your work. Social Media We produce different content across our social media. If you are skilled in multi-channel management then get in touch, with your CV and links to your work.

Sign up form for email marketing communication relating to Greenspace Zambia activities Looking to get your hands dirty and grow your own garden? Look no further than Greenspace Zambia's gardening newsletter! By subscribing, you'll stay up-to-date on the latest gardening trends, including tips and tricks for cultivating the perfect garden in any season. Plus, you'll be the first to know about promotions and discounts from local businesses offering everything from tools to seeds. But that's not all. You'll also receive information about upcoming events where you can meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for gardening. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's always something new to learn and discover. So don't wait any longer. Sign up for Greenspace Zambia's gardening newsletter today and start growing your green thumb! Subscribe Creating Community Newsletters provide a platform for gardeners to share their knowledge, experience, and insights with others who are passionate about gardening. As we build up this newsletter we hope to create a community of gardeners who share the same interest in developing gardens and other greenspaces around Zambia. Let us know about green initiatives in your community that you would like to share. We will do our bit by regularly sharing gardening tips, advice, and inspiration with subscribers.

Our indoor plant rental and maintenance services can simplify your life. plants in corporate spaces THE BEAUTY OF INDOOR PLANTS Interior greenspace continues to be a trend with most modern buildings, offices or homes follow the open plan concept. Modern architecture has embraced ways to integrate more greenery within offices and homes. In offices and hotels this trend is very pronounced, with typically larger plants installed in strategic areas in hallways and lobby's. The lush foliage of the plants simply add to the welcoming feel of any space and enhanc the image of the company. Plant Rental Service PLANT RENTAL SERVICE Greenspace Zambia provides a premium package to companies within Lusaka, where we supply plants and maintain plants for their public spaces. such as reception or meeting rooms. Our experienced team removes a lot of the stress involved in keeping these plants looking healthy. Freeing your emloyees to focus on their work. WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU The plant rental service includes: the supply of indoor & patio potted plants. the weekly maintenance of plants including the watering, fertilising, weeding of our plants in your office. the regular replacement of plants that may not be thriving. Our plant guarantee ensures that there is a steady rotation of healthy plants through the office for the benefit of staff and the enjoyment of your clientele. SO WHY NOT CREATE YOUR OWN GREENSPACE? CONTACT US FOR A CONSULTATION A consultant will visit your premises to do an initial assessment on the type of plants suitable for your office. Feedback and a quotation and a list of plant options then will be sent through within a week. Helpful tips to get you started How to incorporate plants in your office space. Transform your office culture with indoor plants. Overcoming the hurdles of indoor plants in an office space Our Plant Selection In our shade-house, we maintain a selection of shade tolerant plants that have been acclimatized to darker light conditions. This means it will be easier for them to get used to your indoor office space or your entrance verandah. We are mindful of where we place plants, selecting the right plant for the placement. We rotate plants into our clients premises regularly.We can accommodate clients requests on certain plants if they want to achieve a specific look, however, this is subject to availability. THE IMPACT PACKAGE The Impact Package is a combination of 10 plants, for new clients who would like to experience plant rental services to see if it benefits their company. W e offer a combination of pot sizes selected to create maximum impact in your reception area or client meeting rooms. The package includes 3 large plants, 4 medium plants, 3 small plants, including weekly maintenance, all at a discounted rate, for a trial period of 1 month! It will create sufficient density of plants to be noticed, and still be tasteful. The Nursery We are based in Lusaka South and maintain a selection of shade tolerant plants. We choose plants that are easy to maintain in high traffic areas. For our rental clients we select from our collection or if necessary we can source from other Lusaka based nurseries. GENERAL PLANT ADVISORY SERVICE Sometimes you just need a second opinion or advice on a garden that has already been installed. In such a case, we also can consult on your exterior landscaping including: general assessment to troubleshoot short-term and long-term issues with your landscape plant selection with a focus towards promoting indigenous species Landscape advisoy service CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION Email: hello@greenspacezambia.com

Statement on data collection and storage We care about your digital privacy Greenspace Zambia Data Privacy Policy Statement When accessing the https://www.greenspacezambia.com , Greenspace Zambia will learn certain information about you during your visit. We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that any personal information you provide to us is handled with care. This privacy policy explains how we collect, use, and share your information when you visit and use our website. By using our website, you agree to the terms of this privacy policy. Please take a moment to read through this policy to understand how we collect, use, and protect your personal information. What type of information do we collect? We receive, collect and store any information you enter on our website or provide us in any other way. In addition, we collect the Internet protocol (IP) address used to connect your computer to the Internet; login; e-mail address; password; computer and connection information and purchase history. We may use software tools to measure and collect session information, including page response times, length of visits to certain pages, page interaction information, and methods used to browse away from the page. We also collect personally identifiable information (including name, email, password, communications); payment details (including credit card information), comments, feedback, product reviews, recommendations, and personal profile. How do we collect information? When you conduct a transaction on our website, as part of the process, we collect personal information you give us such as your name, address and email address. Your personal information will be used for the specific reasons stated above only. Why do we collect such personal information? We collect such Non-personal and Personal Information for the following purposes: To provide and operate the Services; To provide our Users with ongoing customer assistance and technical support; To be able to contact our Visitors and Users with general or personalized service-related notices and promotional messages; To create aggregated statistical data and other aggregated and/or inferred Non-personal Information, which we or our business partners may use to provide and improve our respective services; To comply with any applicable laws and regulations. How do we store, use, share and disclose your site visitors' personal information? Our company is hosted on the Wix.com platform. Wix.com provides us with the online platform that allows us to sell our products and services to you. Your data may be stored through Wix.com’s data storage, databases and the general Wix.com applications. They store your data on secure servers behind a firewall. All direct payment gateways offered by Wix.com and used by our company adhere to the standards set by PCI-DSS as managed by the PCI Security Standards Council, which is a joint effort of brands like Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. PCI-DSS requirements help ensure the secure handling of credit card information by our store and its service providers. How do we communicate with your site visitors? We may contact you to notify you regarding your account, to troubleshoot problems with your account, to resolve a dispute, to collect fees or monies owed, to poll your opinions through surveys or questionnaires, to send updates about our company, or as otherwise necessary to contact you to enforce our User Agreement, applicable national laws, and any agreement we may have with you. For these purposes we may contact you via email, telephone, text messages, and postal mail. How do we use cookies and other tracking tools? In general, the cookies which are initially placed on our Wix website may be categorized as essential cookies: security, anti-fraud, and other purposes related to the specific functionality of our service. How can our site visitors withdraw their consent? If you don’t want us to process your data anymore, click on the 'do not sell my personal information' link, in the footer section below, to remove consent. Privacy policy updates We reserve the right to modify this privacy policy at any time, so please review it frequently. Changes and clarifications will take effect immediately upon their posting on the website. If we make material changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated, so that you are aware of what information we collect, how we use it, and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it. Contact If you would like to: access, correct, amend or delete any personal information we have about you, you are invited to contact us at hello@greenspacezambia.com .

Guidance on how to care or your indoor houseplants. PLANT CARE GUIDE WHICH PLANTS DO YOU HAVE? MENU Top of Page Aglaonema Asparagus setaceus Aechmea gamosepala Aspidistra Begonia species and cultivars (Rhizomatous & Rex Begonias) Chamaedorea cataractarum (Cat Palm) Chamaedorea elegans (Parlour Palm) Chamaedorea seifrizii (Bamboo Palm) Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’ (Spider plant) Clivia miniata (Natal Lily) Costus afer (Spiral Ginger) Dieffenbachia species & cultivars (Dumb Cane) Dracaena species & cultivars (Corn Plant/Dragon Tree) Dypsis lutescens (Areca Palm) Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig) Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig) Haemanthus albiflos (Paintbrush Lily) Monstera deliciosa & other species (Swiss Cheese Plant) Nephrolepis exaltata (Sword Fern) Oxalis triangularis (Purple Shamrock) Pachira aquatica (Money Tree) Philodendron burle marx Philodendron (climbing) species & cultivars Rhapis excelsa (Lady Finger Palm) Rhipsalis baccifera (Mistletoe Cactus) Sansevieria species & cultivars (Snake Plants) Schlumbergera cultivars (Winter Cactus) Spathiphyllum cultivars (Peace Lily’s) Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia (African Violet) Syngonium podophyllum (Arrowhead Plant) Thaumatophyllum species & cultivars Vanilla planifolia (Vanilla Orchid) Zamia zamiifolia (ZZ Plant) Aechmea gamosepala plant care instructions Aechmea gamosepala (Matchstick Bromeliad) Habit: A medium to slow growing perennial up to 50 cm tall producing green and yellowish green leaves in a rosette and purple to purplish pink flowers on long stalks that arise from the centre of the leaf rosette. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Shade - ideally a bright location but not exposed to sunlight. Watering: Plants do better using purified or rainwater (the calcium from groundwater gradually will kill plants); pour water into the centre of the leaf rosette and top it up as the water disappears (approximately once per week in the rainy season and cold, dry season but twice a week during the hot dry season). Fertilising: Give plants a half strength organic fertiliser or compost tea once a month except during the cold dry season. Note: the use of chemical fertilisers can be too strong and can kill the plants. Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead, dry leaves and spent flower stalks as needed. Bromeliads generally have small root systems but should be repotted when the plants are crowded in the pot. Pests/Diseases: Plants are relatively pest and disease free but can occasionally be attacked by Aphids, Thrips, Weevils, Scale insects, Mealy bug and Whitefly. Aglaonema Aglaonema species & cultivars (Chinese Evergreen) Habit: Multi-stemmed herbaceous perennial growing up to 100 cm tall (though usually shorter) producing medium to large, either solid green leaves or leaves with varying amounts of white, yellow, pink and red variegation making them very showy. Flowers are produced at the top of the stems amongst the foliage but are rather insignificant. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 10ᐤ C may result in damage to leaves while temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Green leaved varieties can stand full shade but the variegated varieties need bright locations but not exposed to direct sunlight which will burn the leaves. Watering: Aglaonema plants can be fairly drought resistant as water is stored in the flesh stems; water should only be given when the top 3 cm of the soil is dry. As a rule of thumb, that roughly translates to watering once a week during the rainy season, once every two weeks in the cold dry season and once to twice a week during the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove damaged or drying leaves and flowers as necessary. Tall leggy plants can be pruned down to near the soil level and new shoots will be produced in about 3 months. Plants can be repotted every two or three years. Pests/Diseases: Plants are susceptible to aphids, scale, spider mites and root mealy bug. The most common diseases are root rots brought about from overwatering. Asparagus setaceus Asparagus setaceus (Common Asparagus Fern) Habit: Climbing perennial plants up to several metres tall (but can be kept shorter through pruning) producing light feathery stems with fine, soft green needles. Small whitish flowers may be produced followed by blackish berries. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 10ᐤ C may result in damage to leaves while temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants grow best in bright, indirect light and will start to yellow and drop their needles when growing in areas with insufficient light. Watering: Asparagus plants can be fairly drought tolerant storing moisture in its root system, however; watering once a week during the rainy season, once every two weeks in the cold dry season and once to twice a week during the hot dry season will be adequate. Misting the leaves during hot weather is beneficial to plant aesthetics. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing and dry stems as necessary. Tall leggy plants can be pruned down to near the soil level and new shoots will be produced in about 3 months. Asparagus Ferns like to be root bound and can be repotted every four to five years. Pests/Diseases: Plants are relatively pest free but can occasionally be attacked by Asparagus beetles, aphids and cutworms in addition to Fusarium root rot and rust fungus of the leaves. Aspidistra Aspidistra elatior (Cst-Iron Plant) Habit: An upright, erect, slow growing perennial plant growing up to 100 cm tall producing shiny, dark green elliptical leaves on long stalks. Flowers are rarely produced and small, reddish-purple and bloom at ground level. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in low to moderate light levels and are adaptable to many areas within a house where most other plants will not grow; however, plants cannot grow in total darkness or full sun. Watering: Aspidistra can be fairly drought tolerant storing moisture in its root system, however; watering once a week during the rainy season, once every two weeks in the cold dry season and once to twice a week during the hot dry season will be adequate. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove drying leaves as necessary. Repot plants every four to five years or when it has outgrown its current pot when the roots are growing over the edge of the pot. Pests/Diseases: Mealy bug, scale and Spider mites may attack plants and various fungal pathogens can cause a leaf blotch. Keeping plants healthy and well watered reduces the chances of insect or disease problems. Begonia species and cultivars (Rhizomatous & Rex Begonias) Habit: Medium to low growing succulent-like herbaceous perennial growing from sem-erect to creeping stems that produce variously smooth to hairy colourful leaves and pink or white flowers. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants need shade or low indirect light. Exposure to sun will cause leaf scorch and bleaching of leaf colour. Watering: Begonias like a moist growing medium but not saturated; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every three or four years once the roots have filled the pot. Pests/Diseases: Aphids, mealy bugs, thrips scale, spider mite and whitefly may attack plants; while fungal pathogens can cause stem or root rot (usually on overwatered plants) and the leaves can be affected by powdery mildew. Begonia species and cultivars (Rhizomatous & Rex Begonias) Chamaedorea cataractarum (Cat Palm) Chamaedorea cataractarum (Cat Palm) Habit: Slow growing small to medium sized clumping upright to arching palm growing up to 100 cm tall with slender green pinnate leaves and bright yellow pendulous inflorescences. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. If watered more frequently, plants can withstand some direct sun but tend to become more tattered in appearance. Watering: The Cat Palm should be watered enough to keep the root ball evenly moist but not soggy. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season should be sufficient. In addition, misting the fronds during hot dry weather will keep plants looking good. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Plants are susceptible to the buildup of salts in the soil either from over fertilization or the use of hard water, which is high in calcium. Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every three or four years once the roots have filled the pot. Pests/Diseases: Cat Palms are generally pest and disease free; however, plants can be affected by spider mites during times of low humidity. Chamaedorea elegans (Parlour Palm) Chamaedorea elegans (Parlour Palm) Habit: Slow growing single-stemmed woody plant with slender green trunk up to 3 m tall, or rarely 5 m tall. Plants sport a crown of numerous bright green pinnate leaves and yellow to orange-red fragrant flowers borne on branched panicles that emerge from the stem below the leaves. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in dark locations. Watering: The Parlour Palm should be watered enough to keep the root ball evenly moist but not soggy. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season should be sufficient. In addition, misting the fronds during hot dry weather will keep plants looking good. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every three or four years once the roots have filled the pot. Pests/Diseases: Parlour Palms are generally pest and disease free; however, plants can be affected by mealy bug and spider mites during times of low humidity. In addition, overwatering is the leading cause of root rot in plants. Chamaedorea seifrizii (Bamboo Palm) Chamaedorea seifrizii (Bamboo Palm) Habit: Slow growing tall clump-forming plant with slender bamboo-like stems growing up to 2-3 m tall and 1 m wide indoors. Plants sport a crown of numerous bright green pinnate leaves and yellow flowers borne on short panicles that emerge from the stem below the leaves. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in dark locations. Watering: The Parlour Palm should be watered enough to keep the root ball evenly moist but not soggy. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season should be sufficient. In addition, misting the fronds during hot dry weather will keep plants looking good. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Plants are susceptible to the buildup of salts in the soil either from over fertilization or the use of hard water, which is high in calcium. Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every three or four years once the roots have filled the pot. Pests/Diseases: Bamboo Palms are generally pest and disease free; however, plants can be affected by mealy bug and spider mites during times of low humidity. In addition, overcrowding of the plant#s stems can reduce air flow within the plant making the leaves more susceptible to fungal pathogens. Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’ (Spider plant) Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’ (Spider plant) Habit: Low growing herbaceous perennial with arching grass-like green nd white leaves and long hanging bunches of white flowers that develop into little plantlets. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in dark locations. Watering: Chlorophytum like a moist growing medium but not saturated; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove dead or dry leaves and old spent flower stalks as needed. Repot plants every two or three years once the roots have filled the pot. Pests/Diseases: Aphids, mealy bugs, thrips, scale, spider mite and whitefly may attack plants; while a number of fungal pathogens can cause root rot (usually on overwatered plants) and the leaves can be affected by rust fungus. Clivia miniata (Natal Lily) Clivia miniata (Natal Lily) Habit: Rhizomatous perennial producing dark green strap-shaped leaves and bearing an umbel of dull to bright orange or occasionally yellow trumpet-like flowers. Temperature: During the growing season from spring to early fall plants grow best between 18 to 25ᐤ C; however, during late fall and winter when plants are ‘resting’, temperatures around 10ᐤ C are required to initiate flowering. Avoid temperatures below 4ᐤ C as it may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in dark locations. Watering: Clivia like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every five or six weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing or brown leaves as necessary and cut spent flower stalks after flowering has finished. Clivia like to be root-bound and repotting may only be needed every five or six years. Pests/Diseases: Aphids, mealy bugs, spider mite, Lily borer and slugs and snails may attack plants; while a number of fungal pathogens can cause root rot and damping-off while the leaves can be affected by rust and leaf-spot fungi. Costus afer (Spiral Ginger) Costus afer (Spiral Ginger) Habit: An upright to spreading perennial growing up to 1.5 m tall indoors producing bamboo-like stems that spiral in a clockwise or counter-clockwise fashion bearing the leaves on the outside of the spiral and clusters of light pink flowers from a cone-like structure at the top of each stem. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to weak direct light (either early morning or late afternoon sun). When placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow rapidly and fall off. Watering: Spiral Ginger like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing leaves and withering stems to keep the plant tidy. Tall leggy plants can be cut down to just above soil level and allowed to reshoot. Spiral ginger can grow quite vigorously and may need dividing every three or four years; clumps can be cut in half or quarters and repotted into appropriately sized pots. Pests/Diseases: Spiral ginger are generally pest and disease free; however, plants can occasionally be affected by mealy bug and spider mites during times of low humidity. In addition, overwatering is the leading cause of root rot in plants. Dieffenbachia species & cultivars (Dumb Cane) Dieffenbachia species & cultivars (Dumb Cane) Habit: Medium to large single-stemmed to clumping perennials producing bamboo-like stems up to 1.5 m tall indoors with either solid green or variously green, white or yellow variegated leaves and generally insignificant flowers. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 10ᐤ C may result in damage to leaves while temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Green leaved varieties can stand full shade but the variegated varieties need bright, indirect light but not exposed to direct sunlight which will burn the leaves. Watering: Dieffenbachia likes a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once every five weeks during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Plants are sensitive to over fertilisation and will begin to decline if fertilised too frequently. Pruning/Repotting: Remove any yellowing leaves as necessary. Dieffenbachia may need repotting every three or four years depending on size; repot in spring as new growth is starting. Pests/Diseases: Aphids, mealybugs and spider mites may attack plants; while a number of fungal pathogens cause various leaf-spot diseases and a viral mosaic infection. Dracaena species & cultivars (Corn Plant/Dragon Tree) Dracaena species & cultivars (Corn Plant/Dragon Tree) Habit: Medium to large semi-woody, single-stemmed or multi-stemmed perennials growing up to 3 m tall indoors producing from solid green to variously green, lime, white, yellow, cream to pink variegated grass-like to sword-shaped leaves usually crowded towards the ends of the stems. Flowers are rarely produced on indoor plants. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Indoors, plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to direct light. If placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow rapidly and fall off. Watering: Dracaena plants are relatively drought tolerant and can be watered only when the top 5 to 10 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once every two weeks in the rainy season, once a month in the cold dry season and once a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once or twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove any yellowing leaves as necessary. Depending on the species or cultivar Dracaena may need repotting every three or four years depending on size; repot in spring as new growth is starting. Generally, the larger the plant, the greater the need for repotting. Pests/Diseases: Thrips, mealybugs and scale may attack plants; while fungal pathogens cause various leaf-spot diseases and cold injury causes yellow or dead bands across the leaves. Dypsis lutescens (Areca Palm) Dypsis lutescens (Areca Palm) Habit: An upright to slightly arching palm growing up to 1.5 m tall indoors producing medium green pinnate leaves with yellowish stem bases. Plants will not produce flowers indoors. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Indoors, plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to direct light. If placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow rapidly and the plant will start to decline. Watering: Areca palm likes a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once or twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing leaves and withering stems to keep the plant tidy. Areca palm may need dividing every four to five years; clumps can be cut in half or quarters and repotted into appropriately sized pots. Pests/Diseases: Thrips, mealybugs, whitefly, spider mites and scale may attack plants; while fungal pathogens cause rot and leaf-spot diseases. Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig) Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig) Habit: Indoors plants are grown in the shape of a small tree (standard) or a shrub up to 2 m tall with woody stems and branches bearing solid green or green and white or green and yellow variegated leaves. The tiny little fig fruits are rarely produced on indoor potted plants. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Indoors, both the solid green leaf and variegated leaved plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to direct light. If placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow rapidly and fall and the plant will start to decline. Watering: Weeping fig likes a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 5-10 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once or twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove any yellowing or brown and dry leaves as needed; occasionally small to medium sized branches will die back and dry and these stems should be pruned out. Weeping figs can stay in the same pot for a number of years if you want to keep the plant from growing larger; if you want the plant to grow larger repot in spring to a slightly larger pot. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs and scale are the main pests that affect plants, while a few fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot issues and stem damage that may ooze sap. Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig) Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig) Habit: Indoors plants are grown in the shape of a small tree (standard) or a multi-stemmed shrub up to 2 m tall with woody stems and branches bearing solid green or rarely green and white or green and yellow variegated leaves. The large fig fruits are rarely produced on indoor potted plants. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Indoors, both the solid green leaf and variegated leaved plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to direct light. If placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow rapidly and fall and the plant will start to decline. Watering: Fiddle leaf fig likes a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 5-10 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once or twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove any yellowing or brown and dry leaves as needed; occasionally small to medium sized branches will die back and dry and these stems should be pruned out. Weeping figs can stay in the same pot for a number of years if you want to keep the plant from growing larger; if you want the plant to grow larger repot in spring to a slightly larger pot. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs, aphids, whitefly, spider mite and scale are the main pests that affect plants, while a few fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot issues. Haemanthus albiflos (Paintbrush Lily) Haemanthus albiflos (Paintbrush Lily) Habit: Short evergreen bulbous perennial growing up to 30 cm tall producing strap-shaped thick almost succulent leaves and paintbrush-looking flowers usually between April and July (in the southern hemisphere). Temperature: During the growing season from spring to early fall plants grow best between 18 to 25ᐤ C; however, during late fall and winter when plants are ‘resting’, temperatures around 10ᐤ C are required to initiate flowering. Avoid temperatures below 4ᐤ C as it may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants grow well in bright, indirect light for best growth indoors. Avoid placing plants in direct sun or in very dark locations. Watering: Paintbrush Lily like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every five or six weeks in the cold dry season and once or twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing or brown leaves as necessary and cut spent flower stalks after flowering has finished. Paintbrush Lily like to be root-bound and repotting may only be needed every five or six years. Pests/Diseases: Paintbrush Lily is relatively pest free but the leaves can be attacked by the Lily borer which can quickly eat through the leaf and then affect the bulb; currently, no known fungal pathogens cause any damage to the Paintbrush Lily. Monstera deliciosa & other species (Swiss Cheese Plant) Monstera deliciosa & other species (Swiss Cheese Plant) Habit: Large climbing plant with stout thick stems producing medium to large glossy leaves with various lobes and holes (fenestration) and sometimes bearing white aroid flowers. Plants do need to be provided with a trellis or some means of climbing upwards. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Light Exposure: Indoors, plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to direct light. If placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow and the plant will start to grow towards brighter areas. Watering: Swiss Cheese plant like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 5 to 10 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every four weeks in the cold dry season and once a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves as necessary; repotting of Swiss Cheese Plant can be difficult if it has grown tall and climbed beyond its trellis, due to such difficulty, topdressing the plant every three or four years is a good alternative. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs, aphids, whitefly, thrips, spider mite and scale are all pests that affect Swiss Cheese plants. While a few fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot issues, the biggest problem affecting Swiss Cheese plants is root rot due to overwatering issues. Nephrolepis exaltata (Sword Fern) Nephrolepis exaltata (Sword Fern) Habit: Upright to arching medium to large sized clumping perennial up to 90 cm tall and wide with green to greenish-yellow fronds that can be feathery to frilly. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants. Misting plants regularly in dry, low humidity periods will keep it looking good until conditions change. Light Exposure: Plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to weak direct light (either early morning or late afternoon sun). When placed in too dark of a location, leaves will yellow rapidly and fall off and plants will decline. Watering: Sword fern likes a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and twice a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellow or dried frond leaflets or entire fronds as needed. Plants can grow fairly quickly and crowd the pot within a year and can then be divided by cutting it in half and potting up each piece. Pests/Diseases: There are very few pest or disease issues with the Sword fern; the main precaution is to avoid overwatering which will quickly lead to root rot and plant death. Oxalis triangularis (Purple Shamrock) Oxalis triangularis (Purple Shamrock) Habit: A slender low growing tuberous perennial growing up to about 15 to 20 cm tall producing tufts of clover-like, dark purple leaves and slightly taller flower stalks of light pink trumpet-shaped smallish flowers. Note* Purple Shamrock should never be planted in the open garden in Zambia as it can quickly become a garden weed. Temperature: Plants are happiest with temperatures between 15 to 25ᐤ C; temperatures below 10ᐤ C and higher than 30ᐤ C will start to cause the plants to go into dormancy where the leaves die back and the tubers will wait for suitable temperatures before starting back into growth. Light Exposure: Plants will grow well in bright, indirect light to some exposure to weak direct light (either early morning or late afternoon sun). When placed in too dark of a location, leaves will lose the purple colour, reverting back to green to try to survive. Watering: Purple Shamrock likes a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 1 or 2 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once or twice a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and twice a week in the hot dry season. If plants dry out completely, it will not die but instead goes dormant and starting watering again will bring the plant back into growth. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove drying or dead leaves and old flower stalks as needed. Since the plants are small, they do not need to be repotted for four to five years; alternatively, plants can easily be divided to make more pots of. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs, aphids, whitefly, thrips, spider mite and scale are all pests that affect Purple Shamrock. While a few fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot issues, leaf rust, powdery mildew as well as tuber rot. Pachira aquatica (Money Tree) Pachira aquatica (Money Tree) Habit: A naturally large tree when planted outdoors, Money Plant adapts well to pot or container growing and can easily be kept small and form a pseudo bonsai type look. Older plants produce a somewhat swollen lower trunk from which are produced the medium-sized digitate leaves with five bright green leaflets. The stems of several plants are sometimes braided for extra plant interest. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants as the leaflets can get tattered. Light Exposure: Potted or containerised plants grown indoors prefer a location with bright, indirect light. Turning the pot a quarter each week will help to keep plants looking even and avoid them becoming lopsided overtime as they grow towards the light. Watering: As the second part of the scientific name suggests, Money Plants do like a moist growing medium but not like sitting in water; water only when the top 1 or 2 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two weeks in the cold dry season and twice a week in the hot dry season. In addition, regularly misting the leaves in the hot dry season will help keep the foliage looking great. Fertilising: Give plants a well balanced fertiliser once a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing, brown or heavily damaged leaves as necessary. Repotting of the plants will depend on its growth rate but plants usually indicate that they should be repotted once the roots really start growing out the bottom of the pot. Ideally repot in the spring into a pot one or maybe two sizes larger than what it is currently growing in. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs, aphids, whitefly, thrips, spider mite and scale are all pests that attack the young stems and leaves. While a few fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot issues, powdery mildew as well as root rot. Philodendron burle marx Philodendron burle marx Habit: A slow to medium growing shrub up to about 60 cm tall and 60 to 100 cm wide; however, if staked and trained, plants can grow slightly taller. From the rather stout stems, plants produce masses of shiny, narrowly heart-shaped leaves. A great generally easy and fuss free plant. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants as the leaflets can get tattered. Light Exposure: Plants do best in bright, indirect light to thrive and grow well. They can withstand lower light situations but will not grow very strongly, will appear stretched (etiolated) and will tend to be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Plants exposed to direct sunlight will develop scorched and burnt leaves reducing the beauty of the plant. Watering: The plants like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 to 5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and usually twice a week in the hot dry season. In addition, regularly misting the leaves in the hot dry season will help keep the foliage looking great. Fertilising: Philodendron plants are generally heavy feeders and give them a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing, brown or heavily damaged leaves as necessary. Repotting of the plants will depend on its growth rate but plants usually indicate that they should be repotted once the roots really start growing out the bottom of the pot. Ideally repot in the spring into a pot one or maybe two sizes larger than what it is currently growing in. Pests/Diseases: Burle Marx is relatively resistant to pests and diseases if well looked after and happy; however, they can be attacked by thrips, mealy bug and spider mites. Diseases that affect the plants are usually caused by overwatering which can invite fungal and bacterial pathogens that cause root rots and leaf spot problems. Philodendron (climbing) species & cultivars Philodendron (climbing) species & cultivars Habit: Slender to robust climbing evergreen plants that can usually grow several metres tall but when grown in a pot or container are provided with some kind of climbing pole and the height controlled by the height of the pole. Leaves range from small/medium to large or very large, either pure solid green, variegated with green, white or yellow or tinged with purple to reddish depending on the species. The leaf stalks (petiole) can also be brightly coloured sometimes as well. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants as the leaflets can get tattered. Light Exposure: Plants do best in bright, indirect light to thrive and grow well. They can withstand lower light situations but will not grow very strongly, will appear stretched (etiolated) and will tend to be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Plants exposed to direct sunlight will develop scorched and burnt leaves reducing the beauty of the plant. Watering: The plants like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 to 5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and usually twice a week in the hot dry season. In addition, regularly misting the leaves in the hot dry season will help keep the foliage looking great. Fertilising: Philodendron plants are generally heavy feeders and give them a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing, brown or heavily damaged leaves as necessary and occasionally the tip growth will need to be pruned out if growing well above the climbing pole. Repotting of the plants will depend on its growth rate but plants usually indicate that they should be repotted once the roots really start growing out the bottom of the pot. Ideally repot in the spring into a pot one or maybe two sizes larger than what it is currently growing in. Pests/Diseases: Philodendrons are relatively resistant to pests and diseases if well looked after and happy; however, they can be attacked by thrips, mealy bug and spider mites if the plants are stressed. Diseases that affect the plants are usually caused by overwatering which can invite fungal and bacterial pathogens that cause root rots and leaf spot problems. Rhapis excelsa (Lady Finger Palm) Rhapis excelsa (Lady Finger Palm) Habit: A slow growing, clumping evergreen palm with dark brown fibrous covered cane or bamboo-like stems producing thick, pleated digitate fan-like fronds growing up to 4 metres tall but usually only to about half that height in potted or containerised plants. Inflorescences are rarely produced on potted or containerised plants. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C but are tolerant of temperatures between -5 to 37ᐤ. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants as the leaflets can get tattered. Light Exposure: Plants are tolerant of a range of light conditions from partial sun to shade. Indoors plants will grow best in locations of bright, indirect light or areas with weak sunlight (early morning or late afternoon). Plants can deal with lower light conditions but in such cases the leaves will be a darker green. Watering: Lady Finger Palm is rather drought tolerant but when getting established like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch during the growing season and when the top 10 cm of soil feels dry to the touch during the cold season. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once to twice a week in the rainy season, once every three or four weeks in the cold dry season and usually once a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Due to their slow rate of growth plants only need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength only once per month. Plants can be damaged by over fertilizing so one must be careful. Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing, brown or heavily damaged leaves as necessary. Repotting can be done every two or three years each time increasing to a slightly larger pot until it has reached the desired pot size; once it has reached its desired size, the plant should be repotted ever two or three years still into the same or similar sized pot but using a new potting medium. Pests/Diseases: Lady Finger Palms are generally pest and disease free; however, overwatering is the leading cause of various fungal pathogens that cause different types of root rot in the plants. Rhipsalis baccifera (Mistletoe Cactus) Rhipsalis baccifera (Mistletoe Cactus) Habit: Pendulous cactus without the typical spines producing succulent pencil thin stems that can grow as long as 2 m in length. Plants are epiphytic in nature growing in the upper branches of trees but can easily be grown in hanging pots in a well drained media mixed with extra sand or grit. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 27ᐤ C during the growing season and temperatures between 10 to 15ᐤ C during the cold dormant season. Light Exposure: Plants do best in bright, indirect light to thrive and grow well. They can withstand lower light situations but will not grow very strongly, will appear stretched (etiolated) and will tend to be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Plants exposed to direct sunlight will develop scorched and burnt leaves reducing the beauty of the plant. Watering: Given that the plants are potted in a very free draining medium, they can be watered once a week during the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once to twice during the hot dry season. Fertilising: Mistletoe Cacti need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength only once per month. Plants can be damaged by over fertilizing so one must be careful. Pruning/Repotting: Pruning is mainly only needed to help shape the plant and repotting is usually necessary only when a plant outgrows its pot or to divide, multiply and repot in similar sized pots Pests/Diseases: The only real pest that affects the Mistletoe Cactus is mealy bug while fungal pathogens that cause root rot will easy kill plants that are overwatered. Sansevieria species & cultivars (Snake Plants) Sansevieria species & cultivars (Snake Plants) Habit: Upright ti low growing evergreen succulents growing from rhizomes and producing cylindrical, flat or thick, U-shaped leaves variously decorated with various shades of green, yellow, white and cream markings. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 30ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants will grow well in medium to bright, indirect light but are capable of surviving in low light locations in which the plants will grow very slowly. The trifsciata species is the most capable of surviving in lowest light locations. Watering: Snake plants need to dry out between waterings regardless of light exposure and it’s always best to err on the side of caution if in doubt. As a rule of thumb, watering once every two weeks during the rainy season, once a month in the cold dry season and once a week in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Snake Plants can be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength only once per month. Plants can be damaged by over fertilizing so one must be careful. Pruning/Repotting: Pruning is not usually required but occasionally needed when leaves die or are damaged. Repotting is necessary when roots start coming out the bottom of the pot or when the rhizomes start to deform the pot and is best carried out just before starting into active growth at the end of the cold dry season. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs, whitefly, thrips, spider mite, scale and root mealy bugs are all pests that attack the leaves and roots. While a few fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot and blight issues as well as root rot. Schlumbergera cultivars (Winter Cactus) Schlumbergera cultivars (Winter Cactus) Habit: Slow growing, small cacti producing semi-erect to arching flat, broad, slightly toothed stem segments that act as leaves as the plants do not produce any actual leaves. Flowers are produced in the axils of the toothed sections of the outer stem segments in colours of pink, red, orange, lavender-purple and white. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 27ᐤ C during the growing season and temperatures between 10 to 15ᐤ C during the cold dormant season. Light Exposure: Plants do best in bright, indirect light to thrive and grow well. They can withstand lower light situations but will not grow very strongly, will appear stretched (etiolated) and will tend to be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Plants exposed to direct sunlight will develop scorched and burnt leaves reducing the beauty of the plant. Watering: Given that the plants are potted in a very free draining medium, they can be watered once a week during the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and once to twice during the hot dry season. Fertilising: Winter Cacti need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength only once per month. Plants can be damaged by over fertilizing so one must be careful. Pruning/Repotting: Pruning is mainly only needed to help shape the plant and repotting is usually necessary only when a plant outgrows its pot or to refresh the media when repotting into the same sized pot. Pests/Diseases: The only real pest that affects the Mistletoe Cactus is mealy bug while fungal pathogens that cause root rot will easy kill plants that are overwatered. Spathiphyllum cultivars (Peace Lily’s) Spathiphyllum cultivars (Peace Lily’s) Habit: Small to large evergreen plants that produce a rosette of narrowly to broadly lanceolate to elliptic leaves that are usually green to dark green but can also be variegated with green and white or green and yellowish-green. The inflorescences are produced out of the centre of the leaf rosette and grow taller than the leaves topped by the typical aroid flower with a white or rarely green spathe that may be sweetly fragrant or not. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C but are tolerant of temperatures between 5 to 37ᐤ. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants as the leaves can get tattered. Light Exposure: Plants will grow well in medium to bright, indirect light but are capable of surviving in low light locations in which the plants will grow very slowly. Plants with darker green leaves are able to withstand lower light locations but regardless of, all plants will benefit from rotating a quarter to a half each week to keep plants balanced and avoiding them becoming lopsided. Watering: Peace Lilies like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 to 5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and usually twice a week in the hot dry season. In addition, regularly misting the leaves in the hot dry season will help keep the foliage looking great. Fertilising: Plants need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength only once per month. Plants can be damaged by over fertilizing so one must be careful not to feed plants too much or too often as prescribed. Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing and dead leaves and spent flower stalks as necessary. Peace Lilies can withstand a moderate level of being root bound but will need to be repotted when plants begin to wilt more frequently even after being watered or if offsets have started to crowd out the mother plant. In such a case, separating out the offsets and potting them up separately increases the vigour of the mother plant. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs, aphids, spider mite and scale are all pests that attack the leaves. While a few fungal pathogens can cause leaf spot and blight issues as well as root rot and a virus can cause a mosaic virus of the leaves. Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia (African Violet) Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia (African Violet) Habit: Low growing, semi-succulent evergreen perennial plants that produce a rosette of ovate to round or elliptic hairy mid to dark green leaves. Bunches of flowers are borne from the side of the leaf rosette to sit slightly above the leaves in shades of purple, pink, red, whitish and bicolour forms. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 25ᐤ C but are tolerant of temperatures down to 10ᐤ C. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations where colder air can lead to less attractive plants Light Exposure: Plants do best in bright, indirect light to thrive and grow well. Direct sun will burn the leaves and kill the plants. Be sure to turn the plants once a week so that plants stay even and do not become lopsided. Watering: Peace Lilies like a moist growing medium but never soggy. It is usually better to also water plants from below in a saucer of water and let the plant soak it up through the drainage holes to avoid wetting the plant’s leaves or crown which can lead to disease or rot issues. Fertilising: Plants need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength augmented with two tablespoons of epsom salts per four litres of water only once per month. Plants can be damaged by over fertilizing so one must be careful not to feed plants too much or too often as prescribed. Pruning/Repotting: Remove any dead or damaged leaves and dried spent flower stalks as necessary. Mature African Violets can be repotted once or twice a year depending on its growth as a means of refreshing the soil. Plants should be removed from its existing pot and the soil medium around the soil ball loosened and gently shaken free; but do not try to remove all the soil from the root ball. Partially refill the existing pot with new soil medium and place the plant and its existing root ball into the pot; then gently fill in any more soil medium as required trying to avoid getting the leaves dirty. Once repotted, tap the pot down gently a few times to settle the soil medium and then water from below. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs, aphids, cyclamen mite, thrips, whitefly and scale are all pests that attack African Violets. While a number of fungal pathogens and bacterial pathogens cause leaf spot and blight issues,powdery mildew, root rot and crown rot of the plants. Syngonium podophyllum (Arrowhead Plant) Syngonium podophyllum (Arrowhead Plant) Habit: Generally slender vining/climbing evergreen plants that can grow up to 10 to 20 m tall producing arrowhead shaped leaves of solid green to more commonly variegated types with green and white, green and creamy yellow and newer varieties with varying degrees of different shades of pink. Plants are usually displayed climbing up some type of trellis or allowed to hang down. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 30ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C will result in the death of the plant. Avoid placing plants in windy or drafty locations which can lead to less attractive plants as the leaflets can get tattered. Light Exposure: Plants will grow well in medium to bright, indirect light but are capable of surviving in low light locations in which the plants will grow very slowly. Plants with darker solid green leaves are more able to withstand lower light locations; variegated plants put in the same low light conditions will likely lose their variegation and revert to solid green leaves. Watering: Syngoniums like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and usually twice a week in the hot dry season. In addition, regularly misting the leaves in the hot dry season will help keep the foliage looking great. Fertilising: Plants need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength once to twice per month. Over fertilizing plants can make them more susceptible to pest attack so one must be careful to keep a closer eye on plants fertilised twice per month. Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing or dry dead leaves as necessary. Pruning out the growing tip will cause more branching and a bushier plant. Repotting is generally necessary when roots start to grow out the bottom of the pot and repotted into a new pot one size larger. Pests/Diseases: Mealybugs, aphids, spider mite and scale are all pests that attack Arrowhead vine. While a few fungal and bacterial pathogens cause leaf spot and blight issues as well as stem rot of the plants. Thaumatophyllum species & cultivars Thaumatophyllum species & cultivars Habit: Medium to very large, sometimes semi-woody evergreen perennial plants producing small to large lobed green leaves. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 30ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C will result in the death of the plants. Light Exposure: Thaumtophyllum plants mostly grow best in bright, indirect light locations. Plants may survive in medium, indirect light but they will not thrive and may, overtime, decline. Watering: Plants like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and usually twice a week in the hot dry season. In addition, regularly misting the leaves in the hot dry season will help keep the foliage looking great. Fertilising: Plants are generally heavy feeders and give them a well balanced fertiliser twice a month during the hot dry season and rainy season but not during the cold dry season when plants are resting (semi-dormant). Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing, brown or heavily damaged leaves as necessary and occasionally the tip growth will need to be pruned out if growing well above the climbing pole. Repotting of the plants will depend on its growth rate but plants usually indicate that they should be repotted once the roots really start growing out the bottom of the pot. Ideally repot in the spring into a pot one or maybe two sizes larger than what it is currently growing in. Pests/Diseases: Thaumatophyllum are relatively resistant to pests and diseases if well looked after and happy; however, they can be attacked by thrips, mealy bug and spider mites if the plants are stressed. Diseases that affect the plants are usually caused by overwatering which can invite fungal and bacterial pathogens that cause root rots and leaf spot problems. Vanilla planifolia (Vanilla Orchid) Vanilla planifolia (Vanilla Orchid) Habit: Climbing succulent stout vine producing aerial roots at the leaf nodes with medium-sized elliptic to lanceolate green leaves. Aerial roots will secure the vine to the climbing trellis and vines usually have to be looped around as they continue to grow. Plants usually don’t flower as indoor plants. Temperature: Plants grow best between 20 to 30ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C will result in the death of the plants. Light Exposure: Vanilla plants will grow best in locations of bright, indirect light or areas with weak sunlight (early morning or late afternoon). Watering: Plants like a moist growing medium but not soggy; water only when the top 3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Always check the soil moisture first but as a rule of thumb watering once a week in the rainy season, once every two or three weeks in the cold dry season and usually twice a week in the hot dry season. In addition, regularly misting the leaves in the hot dry season will help keep the foliage looking great. Plants are also best watered with distilled or rain water instead of groundwater. Fertilising: Plants need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength once per month. Pruning/Repotting: Remove any yellowing or dry leaves. Repotting can usually take place every three or four years into a well drained soil medium mixed with some compost. Pests/Diseases: Indoors, mealybugs, aphids, spider mite and scale are all pests that can attack Vanilla vines. While rare on indoor plants, a few fungal and viral pathogens cause leaf spot and blight issues as well as stem rot of the plants. Zamia zamiifolia (ZZ Plant) Zamia zamiifolia (ZZ Plant) Habit: Medium to large slow growing upright to arching semi-succulent perennial plant growing up to 100 cm from tubers and producing many stem-like leaves bearing upwards of a dozen elliptic to lanceolate thick opposite to sub-opposite shiny green leaflets. Temperature: Plants grow best between 15 to 25ᐤ C and temperatures below 4ᐤ C may result in the death of the plant. Light Exposure: Plants will grow well in medium to bright, indirect light but are capable of surviving in low light locations in which the plants will grow very slowly. Watering: ZZ plants should be allowed to dry out considerably between waterings. Plants in bright indirect light locations should be watered once a month in the rainy season and cold dry season and once every two weeks in the hot dry season. In contrast, plants in low light locations should be watered once every two months in the rainy season and cold dry season and once a month in the hot dry season. Fertilising: Plants in higher light locations need to be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength once per month; while plants in low light locations should only be fertilised with a well balanced fertiliser at half strength once every two months. Pruning/Repotting: Remove yellowing and browning leaflets and any wrinkling stem-like leaves as necessary. ZZ plants should be repotted every two or three years into a new pot one size larger than what it was previously growing in. Pests/Diseases: ZZ Plants rarely suffer many problems but occasionally they may be attacked by scale insects. Other than that they are relatively rest and disease free.