Question
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Followup To
Question -
Will,
I have a nice wide window seat that gets a lot of afternoon sun. I think it's an ideal place for a few houseplants, but I'm a little concerned about the temperature. We're in Northern VA, and it can get chilly next to the window in the fall and winter. Can you suggest a few flowering houseplants that might thrive in this spot? I have some rosemary that I'd like to bring in from my garden. Should I be able to pot it up and have it in this spot? Also, what kind of potting soil do you recommend for houseplants? Thanks in advanced,
Shelley Stoker
Answer -
Hi Shelley,

Flowering plants that grow outdoors in the ground in summer, rarely do well indoors. It is better to stick with more tropical flowering plants that you purchase in pots rather than transplant from the earth.

Geraniums, Jasmine, Passiflora, and Bromeliads will all do well in the location you described. Geraniums and Bromeliads ate the easiest to care for. The other two require a little more work. All of them should be kept in the pots that they come in, as moving them into larger pots at this time of years is not a good idea.

If you need care instructions for any of the plants I mentioned, let me know.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

If this information has been helpful, please remember to give me an AllExperts rating and nomination.


Will, Thanks. I'll try those that you mentioned. I was also wondering about potting soil for houseplants? What's the best? -Shelley


Answer
Hi Shelley,

I apologize for overlooking that question.

Indoor plants do best in peat-based, soilless potting mixes, such as Pro-Mix. They are sterile (weed and disease free), able to retain water, and have the right amount of porosity.

One caution: Unnecessary repotting is the single most common reason for plant failure. Newly acquired plants should not be repotted for at least several months, if at all. So don't be in a  hurry to repot. Let me know if you have questions about this.

Will