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Welcome to the 2 Do's & Don'ts: Plant Care Center

Taking care of plants doesn’t have to be complicated! Here at Queer Plants Cafe, we’ve created the 2 Do’s & Don’ts guide to help even the most novice plant owners succeed. Whether you’re growing succulents, ferns, or air plants, we’ve streamlined the essentials into four easy tips for each plant family: 2 things to do to help your plant thrive and 2 things to avoid to keep your plant alive. It’s as simple as that!

Ready to get started? Explore the plant family tabs to find helpful care tips for your specific plant. Let’s grow together! Don't fret, more plant varieties coming soon!

Prayer Plants (Maranta, Calathea, Stromanthe)
Elephant Ear/Alocasia
Ferns (Boston Fern, Maidenhair Fern)
Air Plants (Tillandsia)
Carnivorous Plants (Venus Flytrap, Pitcher Plant)
Succulents (Echeveria, Haworthia)
Cacti
Floating Plants (Duckweed, Water Lettuce)
Kokedama (Moss Ball Plants)
Begonias
Hoyas
Philodendrons
Monstera
Ficus (Fiddle Leaf Fig, Rubber Plant)
Syngonium or Arrowhead Plants
Peperomia
Mangave

The Intuitive Plant Care Center

Listed are 6 of the most common plant care blunders, but blunder on no more with the right tools from Queer Plants Café’s: Intuitive Plant Care Center

Moisture meter
Overwatering

Overwatering occurs when plants receive more water than they need, leading to wilting, yellowing leaves, and root rot. To prevent overwatering, use a Moisture Meter to gauge soil moisture levels accurately.

Underwatering

Underwatering happens when plants don't receive enough water, resulting in drooping leaves, dry soil, and stunted growth. Use a Moisture Meter to ensure your plants get adequate hydration levels.

Moisture meter and box
Growlight kit
Low Light

Low light conditions cause plants to become leggy, with pale leaves and slow growth. LED Grow Light Panels can supplement natural light, providing the necessary light spectrum for healthy plant growth.

Joyful dirt fertilizer
Malnourishment

Malnourished plants exhibit yellowing or discolored leaves, stunted growth, and weak stems. Fertilizers replenish essential nutrients, promoting vibrant foliage and robust growth.

Infestation

Infestations by pests like aphids or spider mites lead to yellowing leaves, distorted growth, and visible pests on plants. Neem Treatment effectively controls infestations while being safe for plants and the environment.

Neem queen
Plant cleaning wipes
Dust Build-Up/Clogged Stomata

Dust build-up on plant leaves can clog stomata, hindering photosynthesis and causing leaf discoloration. Plant Cleaning Wipes gently remove dust and dirt, allowing plants to breathe and thrive.

General Care Tips for
Plants of Air, Water and Land

Botanical themed gifts available at Queer Plants Cafe

Plants of Air

For those venturing into the world of air plants or tillandsia, welcome to a low-maintenance, unique plant experience! Air plants thrive in bright, indirect light and require occasional misting or soaking to keep them hydrated. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rot. At our shop, we offer specialized air plant fertilizer formulated specifically for tillandsia to help them flourish. With a little care and attention, these fascinating plants will bring joy and beauty to your space effortlessly.

Plants in Water

If you're setting up an outdoor pond or water feature, consider adding Frogbit, Water Hyacinth, or Water Lettuce for their beauty and natural filtration abilities. These plants thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer water temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Regularly remove any dead or decaying plant material to maintain water quality and prevent overcrowding. These aquatic plants not only add aesthetic appeal but also contribute to a healthy ecosystem in your outdoor water feature.

Aquarium enthusiasts, welcome to the world of aquatic gardening! When caring for Frogbit, Water Hyacinth, or Water Lettuce in your aquarium, ensure water temperatures are between 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C) for optimal growth. Provide ample lighting, preferably LED aquarium lights, to support photosynthesis. Regularly monitor water quality parameters such as pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels to ensure a healthy environment for your aquatic plants and fish. Trim excess growth as needed to prevent overcrowding and maintain water clarity.

Botanical themed gifts available at Queer Plants Cafe
Botanical themed gifts available at Queer Plants Cafe

Plants on Land

Embarking on your journey of caring for indoor houseplants is an exciting endeavor! General care tips for potted indoor plants include placing them in bright, indirect light and allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Remember, plants need to eat too! Applying a slow-release fertilizer will ensure your plants receive the nutrients they need to grow and thrive.

Each plant species has its own unique care requirements, so we encourage you to research the genus of your plant for tailored care information. Understanding the specific needs of your plants will help you provide them with the best care possible, ensuring they thrive in your home environment. Don't hesitate to reach out to us or explore resources online for further guidance on caring for your indoor houseplants. Happy planting from Queer Plants Cafe!