The household appliance that could be killing your plants
<p dir="ltr">As many people continue to battle with cold and damp winter months, many households turn to the use of a dehumidifier to keep their home in tip-top shape. </p>
<p dir="ltr">While these common appliances can be great for dealing with extra moisture in your home, they can also spell disaster for your indoor plants. </p>
<p dir="ltr">On average, plants need between 40% and 60% humidity to thrive, depending on the type of plant.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The constant use of dehumidifiers can greatly alter the environment of your home, with your plants suffering as a result. </p>
<p dir="ltr">When the air becomes too dry, you may notice the edges of your plant's leaves turning brown, stopping growing, or the leaves start to turn yellow. </p>
<p dir="ltr">If you are starting to notice your plants becoming unhappy, Rhian Pullar, horticulturist, and director of Northern Beaches Creative Gardens, says you should be watering more regularly. </p>
<p dir="ltr">"I always look at the leaves, and if it's wilting, then water it."</p>
<p dir="ltr">Rather than sticking to a strict watering schedule, Rhian says it's best to water your plants as needed. </p>
<p dir="ltr">"Put your finger in the soil. If it looks dry and as a bone, water it. If you feel a bit of moisture, let it dry out before watering to avoid root rot." </p>
<p dir="ltr">If you have some plants that are really struggling with low humidity, Rhian says to only use the dehumidifier when required. </p>
<p dir="ltr">“Use a water spray bottle to mist the leaves as part of your watering routine," she adds. "I suggest grouping your plants together if they are struggling with the dehumidifier and moving them to your bathroom so they can collect moisture from the shower.” </p>
<p dir="ltr">Alternatively, you can look at purchasing plants that thrive in low humidity environments. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Rhian’s top five plants that are great for dry conditions are succulents, orchids, devils ivy, snake plant, and fiddle leaf fig. </p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>
