Don’t forget to collect pine cones while walking in the forest. These little gifts of nature have many uses in the home, but best of all is to prevent plants from shedding. Before you learn how they work, first see how to properly care for flowers to avoid this annoying problem that can cost you dearly.
At first glance, it seems that watering is a simple care, but it can surprise many a novice gardener. It is not at all difficult to water the flowers, which makes them more susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases. How to properly water your plants? Why exactly does the cone help keep the substrate moist? You will find the answers to these questions in this article.
How do you recognize an overwatered plant?
Symptoms of waterlogged plants can vary from species to species. However, browning of the leaves and the appearance of blisters are the most common (the plant is “swollen” from excess water).
You may also notice that the shoots, stems and leaves look rotten. In addition, the growth and flowering of plants is slowed down.
As a result of waterlogging, the roots have difficulty accessing oxygenwhich results in literally “suffocating the plant”. In addition, flowers are unable to receive nutrients. Finally, fungal diseases appear.
How to save spilled plants?
As a first step, you should remove the spilled plant from the pot and then inspect it thoroughly. If you notice rot on the roots, either clean them or remove them.
After that place the plant on a material that absorbs water well and place it in a shady place – it must dry there.
When the plant is completely dry, you can transplant it. It is ideal if the flowerpot has sufficient drainage so that excessive water does not accumulate in it.
Don’t forget to use soil designed for a specific species. Refrain from watering during the first few days.
Cones for soil moisture monitoring
Pine cones are most often used as decorations in homesespecially at Christmas. They are a great material for creative DIY projects, e.g. wreaths or Christmas decorations for the tree. In addition, many people spray them with essential oils, so they serve as natural air fresheners.
These small gifts of nature have unusual properties. Their scales open in dry conditions and close in wet conditions. Therefore, they can predict the weather, but also indicate the moisture level of the substrate of potted plants. If you put the cone in the pot with the tip up, it will tell you when the flower needs watering. This happens when the scales open.
Do you shed flowers at home? Use the donut trick
