Are you looking for this pot?
I’m not sure what the second and third image have to do with it
I got mosquito bits from Amazon & I keep a small chunk in each watering can (I refill them each time I use them so the minerals settle before the next watering). They work brilliantly! Although they seem expensive (I was surprised by how much they are), after using them they are definitely worth the money. In about 6 weeks I’ve used 1/4 of one of the rings - I have about 60 plants of varying sizes from tiny to huge - to give you an idea as to how long a pack of 6 might last you.
These are the ones I bought
I have this one but I can’t see the ingredient but I haven’t messaged the seller Neem Oil 500ml - Cold Pressed, Virgin, Unrefined - 100% Natural https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07G2DH5FK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ATQSSTZ6D18DJX49DD5F?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I used to use Westland but had the same problems as you. I switched to this and mix perlite in myself. My plants are happy so far. They also make a succulent/cactus blend. It’s overpriced on amazon however as it’s £6 for 8 litres in garden centres. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01EFULJFK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_PvcbGb3WWV8HT
I'm an amateur lover of this plant, and can tell you if get the right soil it will flourish. Managed to take something this shape and size and grow it to about 2' tall over the course of 8 years or so across 3 repots.
This is the one I used https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07662J9W8/
I trained it using sticks and ties, occasionally trimming the top to make it bush out a little (those stalks can get hell wide, and you will need it to hold the weight down the line).
Annually in summer, I will give it a lot of TLC and clean out all the dead leaf, anything growing too much in one direction.
With off-cuttings like this, I have bound them together with a hairband, and they have found their way into merging into a single plant.
The purple leaves mean too much sunlight I think.
Like I said, I am an absolute amateur and this plant suits me well, its very rewarding and I feel its with me for life now.
How about putting them in cheap "gooseneck" style lamp, so you can plug them in and point them where you need them?
E.g. something like this
FERTILIZER! A few pumps in the water each week saved my Swiss cheese plant. It was actively growing but the oldest leaves were withering away and falling off. Started using this https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Gro-Tropical-Houseplant-Food-Houseplants/dp/B09GW8FKTQ?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER and it’s happy. 🥹
Is this the sort of thing you mean? Or is what you want in a loose form?
I'm planning on purchasing it, so do not have personal experience of it.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002YJW382/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_4?smid=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&psc=1
I don't know if you can get it in the UK, but I purchased a product called Mosquito Bits - it is a certain kind of Bt (an organic biological control) that kills mosquito and fungus gnat larvae. You can infuse it into water and use that to water the plants, or mix it into the soil when potting. Fungus gnats really decimated my seedlings one year, so now I always use this. It's the same stuff they make mosquito dunks out of. (https://www.amazon.com/Summit-Responsible-Solutions-Mosquito-Bits/dp/B00O2KYORO/ref=sr\_1\_5?keywords=mosquito+bits&qid=1658537520&sr=8-5)
I bought some sticky traps whilst I worked out another solution, but these have actually sorted it out themselves. Be warned, they are very sticky, I'd suggest holding at the bottom as you peel off the paper, then rip where you are holding, otherwise if you peel the whole paper off, it's a bitch to get it off your fingers to place it.
I actually went with the Levoit 3L in the end and super happy with it, it runs ona timer switch so is only on 10hr per day and the tank lasts 3-4 days. My alocasias and calatheas are very happy with it aha
Levoit, all day every day I have the 6L, totally reliable, doesn't leak, various mist levels, hot or cold, auto shut off, timer, remote control, able to doffuse essential oils also if you wish. I've recommended it to several people now who had other makes that let them down/ broke or who just needed a first time purchase and not a single person I've recommended it to has regretted the purchase. It's slightly more expensive than some makes but imo is one of the best out there, and it's a large size so you don't have to refll it every 5 minutes. They're are smaller and cheaper Levitt models and I think they are a great brand for humidifiers but this model is the one I recommend and use myself. I just went to find you an Amazon link for the model I have & it's actually on sale: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Levoit-Humidifiers-Ultrasonic-Humidifier-Vaporizer/dp/B01MYGNGKK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=3LP9JJN853UP5&keywords=levoit+humidifier&qid=1656064033&sprefix=levoit%2Caps%2C83&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW...
This is the closest to the ones I have
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Garpsen-Spectrum-Equivalent-Greenhouse-Shelves/dp/B099D9KVDZ/ref=sr_1_3?m=AK06967S89XVG&marketplaceID=A1F83G8C2ARO7P&qid=1655754526&s=merchant-items&sr=1-3
Mine are a 2020 T5 variant, this is a T8, (diameter). My plants love these lights. I've got my eye on one of the bendy arms ones though, saves the faf of mounting the one like mine.
Canagrow makes an amazing 35 watt grow bulb with a little built in fan. Outperforms my Sansi and GE full spectrum bulbs- more PPFD light at a greater distance.
so the humidity was higher close to the diffuser? did it read as normal as soon as you moved the hygrometer away a bit or is there a more gradual drop in humidity? i have a humidifier so i'm curious to know.
i feel the difference walking into my flat when i use my humidifier, and that's even tho it's in a big room (for a flat) and the door is usually open.
i would try grouping the plants around the diffuser for a while and then see if you still need a humidifier. if you do want one, this sort of model where the reservoir is easy to get into is probably the easiest to clean, although idk if they sell bigger versions. don't do what i did and buy a 6l humidifier where you can't stick your hand inside the reservoir, those are a pain to clean lol
also the only reason to keep a humidifier away from your plants afaik is to stop the mist from condensing on the leaves, but tbh i have mine pretty close and that doesn't happen.
This, you can use it as a soil drench and the concentrate is much more cost effective than spray bottles.
The House Plant Expert by D.G Hessayon. It makes learning about house plant care very easy to understand. A lot of people struggle with direct/indirect sunlight, and this book makes it very clear.
I could be wrong but when I had little black dots like this, I was told it's thrip excrement. I'd separate your plant from any others to be safe and treat with a pesticide. If it is thrips, they can be a real menace to combat, so I'd go straight to the big guns. I used this and it seemed to get rid of them with one treatment, but I had a vvv minor thrip problem.
I don’t think we get some of the really industrial chemical sprays over here that they use in the US but I’ve used the following from amazon and it worked for me. Neudorff BugFree Bug and Larvae Killer, 750 ml https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B007W9SST2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_9R5Y8BNM0WTCMK4V8MQ6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Fungus gnat I think you can get Garsum Fruit Fly Sticky Trap for Indoor and Outdoor, Fungus Gnat Killer for Houseplant,Mosquitos, Flying Insect, White Flies, 12 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZSC4CK1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_62DSJDCBMZ11RW7PWAP8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 to help
It's a bit of a faff uploading them all to depop since I have a lot I'm selling, I dont mind linking my Facebook page here
I'm based just outside of pontefract, west Yorkshire
No problem. Yeah it could be the change from being under cover. They can live undercover but not really needed as the uk climate is fine for them. No rush to repot just now. To be honest I think it could be just inadequate lighting, try maybe proping it up so it's level with the window. If still doesn't start to perk up then would suggest getting a cheap light source. Here is a link for one I would recommend. Let me know how it goes and good luck 👍
Bawoo 30W LED Grow Light, 60 LEDs Plant lamp with 3 Adjustable Gooseneck Heads Full Spectrum Auto On/Off Growing Bulb with 3 Timers for Indoor Plants (Black) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082VTH7LT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_EV63NVXV3BBMAKFJ28Z6
Take a peek at the root system, it may need a bigger pot, also, invest in a grow light, I purchased mine on Amazon for $40 and it has 4 adjustable lamps. This is definitely a savior in winter months. I use a small heating pad to rehab my troubled plants and it works wonders, creates moisture!
Grow Light with Stand,GHodec Tri-Head 60W Floor Plant Lights for Indoor Plants, Tripod Stand Adjustable 15-48 in,3/9/12H Timer & 3 Modes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Y6B74CL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_GSDHQRWQ8PA1VV01FPN1
I have some lights very similar to that. They're fine, and they do help if the plant is in a dark corner, but they're not very strong in the grand scheme of things. Sounds like a top up might be all you'd need though.
I'm rather fond of these Relassy lights if you want something in the lower end that packs a bit more punch.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07J65WMQR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
And if you want to get serious I can't recommend the Cosmorrow strip lights enough. I have some on my succulent shelves and they're absolute magic.
https://www.secretjardin.com/product-category/lightings/cosmo/
Had 2 pairs of these for my grow space, easy to use, sturdy and all my plants and props grow great. Cheaper too
Thrips. Don’t bother with soap, neem oil etc. it doesn’t work and it’s a total waste of time and money. Your infestation looks really bad so I’d go straight in with the big guns. Try this Provanto
Can confirm, I used provanto on thrips, got rid of them from one application. I've heard that the concentrate is better than the pre-mixed. provanto concentrate
It's also better value for money, goes a long way.
Soap, neem oil etc are a total waste of time and money. They’re completely ineffective. I don’t know why people keep suggesting them. You need to use a proper pesticide if you want something quick and truly effective. Neem gets portrayed as the natural alternative but the primary ingredient (pyrethrin/pyrethrum) in most pesticides is derived from chrysanthemum flowers. Neem oil can also be quite toxic (just as toxic as pesticides) if you’re not careful so there’s no real benefit there either.
Try these: Provanto
I prefer Neudorff personally and use it often for spider mites, thrips etc. one spray down (two if it’s really bad) and you’ll be sorted.
I bought this off Amazonfor fungas knats and mealys. The plants and soil absorb it and the bugs die. I just added some to my watering routine so ALL my plants get treated continuously x
Not sure if anyone has said it, but provanto is amazing stuff, we had it on nearly all of our plants, and this stuff sorted it out in one treatment Provanto 86600245 Ultimate Bug Killer, Insecticide Protects For up to Four Weeks, 30ML, Concentrate https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07MSQMGFC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_A7W40JY161YK4D4MSBGV?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I've been using this one for almost a year. It's useful for checking small pots or down in the root balls but I find the finger-dip method more reliable (and quick and easy) where that's possible.
I've been buying this from Amazon in 40ltr bags for the last year. But it every couple of months. It's absolutely perfect every time. Has the odd chunks of wood in it which is actually great for my aroids. And has those slow release fertiliser balls in it.
Hey dw about the ranting - I totally get it, I’ve got a blue star fern that doesn’t quit giving me shit even though I feel like I’ve gone through and checked all its TLC boxes.
Yeah, upload pics of your plant and set up when you get a chance (if you’re cool with it) - I think I understand how you’ve got it set up but wouldn’t mind a pic!
Thinking of humidity, some factors that can impact levels and its importance to the plant are stuff like room temp, air circulation and if leaves are clean of dust/dirt (keeps stomata clean for evapotranspiration!); whilst these are things to consider, it’s generally something not to get too caught up on unless your plant fellas are particularly hard to care for - it’s a shame your kentia is giving you grief, it sounds like you’ve gone the extra lengths to give it what it needs! Good grief Ken, get your act together love!
This is the cheap but effective humidity reader I alluded to in my last post - monitors the temp too so you can check that’s within the plants ideal zone - I’d place that right next to Ken and seeing what levels you’re getting.
Not OP but looks like the same one I have - purchased from here, super cheap and effective.
I got these ones
They have a clip on so you can move them easily and they are also timed so they switch on/off automatically every day for 8 hours
They are very cheap on Amazon so I would say it's definitely worth it.
I bought this one which even records the high/lows as well
I would second this, especially for the Calathea.
I've got both of these and would not be without them now: This ones not available right now, but gives an idea of the info that it provides.. https://smile.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01H1R0K68/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_jANQFbDCTV349?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have several different prayer plants and they're all currently sat together on the floor of my living room, surrounding a humidifier. Since buying this they've all been doing really well and, the humidity helps keep the air warmer, too.
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WOCLOER Coir Moss Totem Pole, with 100 Pieces Garden Twist Tie, for Plant Support Extension
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Original Price: $19.69
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I ordered these planters from Amazon and they’ve turned out much bigger than expected and think they’ll need quite a big plant pot in them- https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B086L32JBR/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_17yIFbX8J6C5M
Wondered if anyone has any experience of these and already knows what plant pots work the best to save me any trial and error hassle, I’m thinking ones that are more rounded like bowls will look more aesthetically pleasing. Any advice would be much appreciated.
Elho pots can be smart and budget friendly. They’re sold on patch.com but you can get them cheaper if you shop around. I last purchased [here](www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GHDSCQI/) but prices vary constantly on sites like Amazon and eBay.
Thanks for the suggestions - in the end I looked around and, in case anyone is interested, I decided on this one from Amazon - https://www.amazon.co.uk/MOSFiATA-Humidifier-Ultrasonic-Humidifiers-NightLight/dp/B085ZLRWWC
It has 3 settings, and does warm and cold air. I got it because it's a decent size (3.5L) and I don't plan on running it all the time. Turns out the room with my plants is fairly humid anyway, so I'll just use it to give my plants a boost in the winter I think.