How to best care for your plants so they grow up bushy and beautiful is a very general question. In a recent talk to young gardeners at a local primary school, Chris shared the most important lesson he’d ever learned when it comes to plants: Plants want to survive. The trick is to understand what they need and give it to them.

Here are Chris’ hot tips for care and maintenance of plants made simple:

According to a study conducted by the University of California about 30 years ago, if you want to ensure the survival of your plants, there are three key factors to keep in mind. These can be summed up as water, weed and fertilise.

The most important of these ingredients to plant health might surprise you…

1. It’s weed control. Surprisingly, weed competition can severely slow the growth of plants, so it’s very important to keep the surrounding area free from grass and weeds. This allows your plants to receive the necessary resources like light and water without being overshadowed or overwhelmed. This starts with creating a weed free area to plant your plants into, and keeping it weed free especially while they are establishing themselves.
2. After weed control, the next most important factor is watering. This is better called “the right amount of water”. Regular watering is important especially in warmer weather and while plants are establishing themselves. However, be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
   Some people kill their plants very quickly with enthusiasm, watering them faster than the water can drain away, and actually drowning their roots.

   Using soil wetter is a good way to get the right watering balance. It help water penetrate the soil so that it gets down to the roots, as well as allows it to drain away freely and doesn’t pool and drown your plants!

3. Lastly, fertilizing is another important aspect of plant care, although it ranks third in priority. Applying suitable fertilizers can provide the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth.