If you want to create a lush indoor jungle, here are the most common mistakes people make when caring for indoor plants that you should try to avoid:

We love having houseplants. They’re a huge joy. But almost all houseplant problems are caused by well-meaning, but easily avoidable, errors. These errors are not about neglect, but about a misattribution of a houseplant’s needs or a rigid application of a rule of thumb. And learning to spot these errors will help you refine your houseplant care.

This article addresses common houseplant care blunders and how to avoid them by learning to watch and make educated choices.

Overwatering & Irregular Watering

Overwatering is one of the most frequent causes of plant care issues.

Over Watering:

Many people water on a schedule, not based on the needs of their plants. This can cause the soil to be too moist all the time, which means the roots receive little oxygen and the plant can grow poorly and have damaged roots.

Avoid this by checking the soil moisture prior to watering and allowing the soil to dry to the correct moisture level for the given plant.

Allowing Plants to Go Bone Dry

Going too long without water is just as bad as overwatering. If you continue to let the soil totally dry out between waterings, you’ll stress your plant and cause the roots to become unhealthy.

Water when the soil feels dry, not on a regular schedule.

Wrong Pot or No Drainage. If your pot is too small, or if there are no holes in the bottom, the plant will become waterlogged, causing root rot. If it’s waterlogged, you might have to cut back the damaged roots and repot in a well-draining potting mix.

The type of container used will influence the health of the plants.

When Pots Lack Drainage Holes

If the pot doesn’t have a drainage hole, the water collects in the bottom and root rot may set in.

If the pot doesn’t have drainage holes, select an inner container that does.

You used a pot that was too small. This is another mistake that can lead to overflow and mess. When you use a pot that is too small, there is not enough room for the contents to move around and expand during the boiling process. A large pot is usually recommended to ensure there is enough space for the water and any ingredients to boil without overflowing.

A pot that is too large retains too much water. A pot that is too small limits root expansion.

Select a pot that is proportional to the size and age of the plant.

Lighting demands can vary widely among houseplants. While some require bright direct light, others thrive in low-light conditions, and a few need something in between. If you are unable to provide the specific lighting conditions recommended for your plant, consider alternatives that can tolerate different light exposures.

Light is required for photosynthesis, however the amount varies with each plant.

In this case, I must add that it is a very good thing that there is too much light.

Don’t put low-light plants in direct sunlight. This will fry the leaves and put the plant under a lot of stress.

Pay attention to how your plant is doing in that lighting and move if necessary.

Lack of Light

Too little light will cause slow or stunted growth and a leggy stem. Foliage may become bleached or stretched as the plant grows towards the light.

Shift your plants near windows or places that receive natural light, if necessary.

Re-potting plants at the wrong time can lead to more harm than good. This is especially true for new plants, as they may struggle to establish themselves in their new pot. Re-potting should be done during the growing season (spring-fall) when the plant is actively producing new growth, as this allows it to recover from the shock of being transplanted.

Repotting, if done right, is a good thing.

Over Repotting

A lot of repotting traumatically upsets the roots and does not allow the plant to get established.

Repotting should only be done when it’s evident the plant needs a larger home.

Repotting When the Plant is Dormant

Repot your plant when it’s actively growing. Repotting during the resting period can cause stress and will take longer to heal.

Incorrect Soil Use

Soil type impacts the ability to hold water, the rate of drainage, and nutrient supply.

Overly Wet Soil

A dense or compacted soil will not drain well and won’t allow enough oxygen to the roots.

We recommend using a well-draining potting mix, specific to your plant’s needs.

Reusing Old Soil

If the soil is old, it can be depleted of nutrients and crumbling in structure. Replace the soil when you repot to help your plant grow.

Overlooking Environmental Considerations

It is surprising how much the indoor environment affects your plants.

“Rapid Shifts in Temperature”

Plants can be sensitive to drafts, heaters and air conditioners.

Most plants prefer consistent conditions and should be kept away from drafts or sudden changes in temperature.

Low humidity usually refers to a relative humidity (RH) of 40 percent or less. This level of dryness can be found at elevations of at least 1,000 feet or more above sea level. Low humidity is usually most comfortable for people when the temperature is warm or hot (above 68°F or 20°C).

Not all houseplants prefer dry conditions. Some demand more humidity and will display crispy, brown leaf margins and curled leaves if the air is too dry.

When it comes to raising the humidity, it’s better to do it gradually so the plant can acclimate.

Anticipating Overnight Success

Taking care of plants is a waiting game.

Being Too Sensitive to Minor Alterations

Small leaf changes can be a normal part of the life cycle of the plant. Frequent changes can cause more harm than good.