Bring design into your home with unique plant terrariums.

Discover why the Angelica Amaryllis bulb in vase is an ideal Christmas gift! From care and flowering tips to reuse, bring color into your home for the holidays.

Finding the perfect plant for a low-light space can be daunting. Maybe you have a dark corner in your living room, a windowless bathroom, or a hallway that barely sees any sunlight. Luckily, there are plants that thrive in these conditions! In this blog, I’ll introduce you to some hardy shade plants.

#1 Sansevieria (mother-in-law's tongue): indestructible and versatile

The Sansevieria, also known as Mother-in-law’s Tongue, is almost legendary for its ability to survive in almost any environment. Whether you have a sunny windowsill or a pitch-black corner, this plant will continue to grow. But what makes this plant truly special is its air-purifying ability. NASA research has shown that the Sansevieria filters out harmful substances such as formaldehyde and benzene, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms or any space where fresh air is desired.

Care tip

- Place the Sansevieria in a well-draining pot, so that excess water can easily drain away. Roots that are too wet can cause root rot.

- Water it only occasionally; this plant likes dry conditions. In winter you can even wait a month between waterings.

Extra fact: The Sansevieria gives off oxygen at night, instead of during the day like most plants. Ideal for the bedroom!

#2. Calathea: the lively shade lover

The Calathea is a plant that is both aesthetic and functional. With its impressive leaf patterns and colour variations, such as the Calathea Orbifolia with its silver-green stripes, it is a real eye-catcher in any room. And because this plant needs little direct sunlight, it thrives perfectly in dark rooms. But what makes the Calathea really special is its rhythmic movement: the leaves close at night and open again in the morning, a phenomenon called 'nyctinasty'.

Care tip:
- The Calathea likes moist soil, but make sure it doesn't get too wet. Check the moisture regularly, by sticking a finger in the soil.

- This plant benefits from high humidity. For example, place it in the bathroom or use a humidifier. This helps prevent brown edges on the leaves.

Humidity Solution Calathea: If you notice that the humidity in your home is too low, you can lightly mist the leaves of the Calathea with water daily. Adding a bowl of water with pebbles under the pot also helps to increase the humidity around the plant.

#3. Aglaonema: strong, stylish and colourful

The Aglaonema, also known as the Chinese Evergreen, is one of the strongest plants for dark spaces. This plant is known for its beautiful, variegated leaves that retain their color even in low-light conditions. Because the Aglaonema grows slowly, it is also a plant that does not require much maintenance. Perfect for people who do not want to spend too much time on plant care.

Care tip:
- Place the Aglaonema in an indirect light spot, such as a window that does not receive direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves.

- This plant does not need much water; in fact, it is better to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.

Jonathan, Botanist at The Green Bottle Garden

The difference between cacti and succulents is a much-discussed topic among plant lovers, and for good reason. Read this blog to find out the differences and the right care tips for your cactus and succulent.

Discover essential care tips for your Bromeliad from The Green Bottle Garden. Learn about optimal location, watering, humidity, nutrition and maintenance. Explore our Bromeliad in a bottle for a unique, low-maintenance option.

Certain houseplants, such as Anthurium and Dieffenbachia, are toxic to pets and can cause mouth irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to keep these plants out of reach of cats and dogs. The Green Bottle Garden offers pet-friendly plants such as Orchids, with the added protection of glass vases. Always check the safety of plants for pets.

The Anthurium is a beautiful plant that is a real eye-catcher in your interior with its shiny leaves and brightly colored flowers. Here you can read tips for caring for this special plant, compiled by the botanists of The Green Bottle Garden.

The perfect location for your plant:

Place your Anthurium in a spot with lots of indirect light. Be careful, direct sunlight can burn the leaves. Keep the plant in a warm environment, preferably between 20-25°C. Avoid temperatures below 16°C.

Watering your Anthurium:

Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil remains slightly moist and not soaked. Water less often in winter. Let the top layer of the potting soil (about 2-3 cm) dry before watering again. Preferably use rainwater or distilled water to prevent limescale deposits.

Did you know that you can also grow your Anthurium in water, without soil? All you need is a vase or glass jar with enough space for the roots. Make sure to change the water every two to three weeks. If you notice that the water is getting cloudy or dirty, it is better to change it immediately to keep the roots healthy and provide them with enough oxygen.

Nutrition tips:

Give the Anthurium liquid plant food once a month, diluted to half strength, if you want extra certainty about growth and want to see more flowers. This is especially recommended during the growing season (spring and summer), but it is optional - your plant can also thrive without extra nutrition.

 

The best humidity for your plant:

Anthuriums like high humidity (60-80%). You can increase the humidity by using a humidifier or spraying the plant regularly with water.

Maintenance:

Remove dead or yellowed leaves regularly to keep the plant healthy. As the plant grows large, it may need some support. Use a plant stake to keep the stems upright.

Troubleshooting:

Brown leaves can indicate too much direct sunlight or too low humidity.

Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering or a lack of nutrients.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your Anthurium stays healthy and beautiful. Good luck with your plant care.

Jonathan, Botanist at The Green Bottle Garden

Are you looking for a unique gift for a plant lover? The products of Green Bottle Garden are the perfect choice! Read here why and order the most beautiful plants in glass as a gift for your plant friend.

At The Green Bottle Garden, we want to delight you not only with beautiful botanical delights, but also with environmentally friendly choices. Here are some tips to take advantage of the sustainable benefits of our eco-glass

A cactus terrarium is a wonderful way to bring a bit of nature into your home. It is not only a beautiful addition to your interior, but also a relatively low-maintenance way to care for plants. In this blog we will delve deeper into the care of a cactus terrarium and discuss the differences between open and closed terrariums.

The difference between open and closed terrariums

Open Terrariums: This type of terrarium has no lid and is ideal for plants that need good air circulation, such as cacti and succulents. Open terrariums prevent excess moisture from building up, which can cause root rot. They are perfect for plants that like dry environments and need lots of light.

Closed terrariums: These terrariums have a lid and create their own mini-ecosystem. They are suitable for plants that thrive in a humid environment, such as ferns, Calatheas and mosses. Closed terrariums retain moisture and heat, which means you don't have to water them. However, closed terrariums are not suitable for cacti because they are sensitive to too much moisture.

Caring for a Cactus Terrarium

Light : Cacti need a lot of light, but direct sunlight can make the terrarium too hot and damage the plants. Place your cactus terrarium in a spot with lots of indirect light. Turn the terrarium occasionally so that all plants get even light.

Water: Cacti require little water. In an open terrarium, you only need to water them once every few weeks. Make sure the soil dries out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.

Temperature: Keep the temperature stable, ideally between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius. Avoid places with extreme temperature changes, such as next to a radiator or in direct sunlight.

Soil and drainage: Use a well-draining potting soil specifically for cacti and succulents. Place a layer of gravel or small stones on the bottom of the terrarium to ensure good drainage and to drain excess water. Don't worry, we have already taken care of this for you in the ready-made Terrarium Cactus Isabella .

Maintenance: Remove dead leaves and check regularly for signs of disease or pests. This will help maintain a healthy environment for your cacti.

Specific tips for the Terrarium Isabella Cactus

The Isabella Cactus Terrarium from The Green Bottle Garden is a great example of an open terrarium that is ideal for cacti. This terrarium combines aesthetics with functionality, giving you a low-maintenance terrarium. Be sure to follow the specific care guidelines outlined above to keep your cacti healthy and thriving.

We hope these tips help you get the most out of your cactus terrarium.

Discover all Terrariums from The Green Bottle Garden here.

Stay tuned for more tips and tricks for your green plant terrariums.

The Green Bottle Garden offers innovative, low-maintenance and beautiful plants in a bottle. Here are five reasons why these green bottles are indispensable.

Yellow leaves on a plant can be a source of frustration for any plant lover. This symptom often points to an underlying problem that threatens the health of the plant. In this blog, you will learn how to identify the causes of yellow leaves and apply effective methods to both prevent and remedy this problem.

Causes of yellow leaves

The first step in solving the problem is to understand the causes. Yellow leaves can be caused by several factors:

• Overwatering: When plants get too much water, their roots can suffocate and rot, leading to yellow leaves.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, iron, or magnesium can lead to yellowing.
• Sunlight Problems: Too much or too little light can cause stress, resulting in yellow or brown leaves.
• Diseases and pests: Certain diseases and pests can affect the plants, causing yellow spots or leaves.
• Too small pot: Your pot may be too small, give your plant's roots some space and repot the plant into a larger pot.

Diagnosis of the yellow leaves problem

In order to treat effectively, it is essential to first determine the specific cause of the yellow leaves. This can be addressed in several ways:

Check soil moisture

One of the most common causes of yellow leaves is a soil moisture problem. Follow these steps to check:

• Feel the topsoil: Stick your finger about 2-3 centimeters into the soil.
•  Too wet: If the soil feels soggy or constantly damp, you may be overwatering. This can lead to root rot.
•  Too Dry: If the soil feels dry and crumbly, the plant is probably not getting enough water. This can also cause the leaves to turn yellow due to dehydration.

Evaluate light location

The amount and quality of light your plant receives plays a crucial role in its health. Consider the following:

• Too much light: Some plants will develop yellow leaves when exposed to direct sunlight, which can lead to sunburn.
• Too little light: Other plants change color when they get too little light, because they cannot produce enough energy for their growth.
• Check your plant's specific light needs: Place the plant in a location where it will receive the right amount of light, or adjust the location if necessary.

Investigating nutritional deficiencies

A lack of essential nutrients can also be the cause of yellow leaves. Follow these steps to identify nutritional deficiencies:

• Performing a Soil Test: Purchase a simple soil test kit from a garden center for a comprehensive analysis.

Addressing specific deficiencies

• Nitrogen deficiency: Yellow leaves often start at the bottom of the plant. Add nitrogen-rich fertilizer.
• Iron deficiency : Yellow leaves with green veins often indicate iron deficiency. Use a fertilizer that contains iron.
• Potassium or magnesium deficiency: Yellowing that starts at the edges of the leaves can indicate a potassium or magnesium deficiency. Adjust your fertilization accordingly.

Inspection for diseases and pests

Diseases and pests can also contribute to yellowing leaves. Inspect your plant carefully:

• Diseases: Look for signs of fungal infections, bacterial infections or viruses. Symptoms may include spots, rot or discoloration.
• Pests: Check the plant for insects such as aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. These pests suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow.
• Treatment Options: Use suitable environmentally friendly pesticides to tackle the problems. Make sure to follow the directions on the products carefully to avoid damaging your plant.

By following these steps, you can accurately determine the cause of the yellow leaves and take appropriate action to restore your plant and prevent further yellowing.

Practical solutions

• Water Management: Adjust watering to the plant's needs. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Feeding: Use a balanced fertilizer tailored to your plant's specific needs, especially if soil tests reveal nutrient deficiencies.
• Light Adjustments: Move plants to a location where they will receive the optimal level and type of light they need.
• Disease and Pest Management: Treat diseases and pests promptly with appropriate biological treatments.

Preventive measures

• Regular Inspection: Monitor your plants regularly for early signs of stress or disease.
• Good hygiene: Keep the area around your plants clean and free of debris, which can contribute to disease and pests.
• Correct plant choice: Choose plants that are suitable for your environment and the specific light and water conditions.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive overview, we’ve explored the common causes of yellow leaves on plants and offered several practical solutions to treat and prevent this frustrating problem. By learning how to recognize symptoms early, you can significantly improve the health of your plants. Remember, successful plant care is a combination of observation, adaptation, and prevention.

For more in depth guides and tips, keep following our tips. Together we will make your plant a success story!

Happy growing, fellow plant lovers!

Jonathan, Botanist at The Green Bottle Garden

Have you always wanted a Bonsai plant, but don't know how to care for it? Or do you already have a Bonsai plant, but want to make it even more beautiful? Then you've come to the right place. In this blog I will tell you everything you need to know about caring for a Bonsai tree. With my tips as a botanist from The Green Bottle Garden, an online store specialized in Bonsai, among other things, you can make your Bonsai plant shine like never before.

What is a Bonsai plant?

A Bonsai plant is a miniature tree that is grown in a small pot and pruned to maintain a certain shape. The word Bonsai literally means 'tree in pot' in Japanese. Growing and caring for a Bonsai plant is an art form that has been practiced in Asia for centuries. The goal is to imitate the beauty and harmony of nature in a small format.

How to choose a Bonsai plant?

There are many different types of Bonsai plants to choose from. Some are suitable for indoors, others for outdoors. Some are easy to care for, others require more experience and skill. Some are evergreen, others lose their leaves in the winter. Some are cheap, others are expensive. So how do you choose the right Bonsai plant for you?

The answer depends on your personal preference, your budget, your climate and your available space. But if you are a beginner, we recommend that you start with a Bonsai plant that is easy to care for, that suits the climate where you live, and that is not too expensive. Some examples of such Bonsai plants are the Carmona and the zelkova . You can recognize these species by their shiny, waxy leaves.

How do you care for a Bonsai plant?

Caring for a Bonsai plant is not difficult in principle, but it does require some knowledge and routine. There are five important aspects of caring for a Bonsai plant: placement, watering and pruning. Let's go through them one by one.

Placement

The placement of your Bonsai plant is very important for its well-being. You need to consider two important factors: the difference between indoor and outdoor cultivation and the amount of sunlight.

Inside or outside?

Bonsai plants usually thrive outdoors, where they experience natural light, temperature and humidity, essential for their growth. In cold regions such as the Netherlands, you should bring your Bonsai indoors in the winter to protect them from frost. In warmer areas, move them to a shady spot in the summer to prevent overheating.

Species such as carmona are better suited to living indoors. Place them in a bright environment all year round, such as a south-facing windowsill, but avoid direct proximity to heating or air conditioning units because of the dry air.

Sunlight

Sunlight is essential for your Bonsai plant to photosynthesize, the process by which it makes its own food. Without sufficient sunlight, your Bonsai plant will become weak and pale, and eventually die. Therefore, you should place your Bonsai plant in a bright spot, where it will receive at least four to six hours of indirect sunlight per day.

Watering

Watering your Bonsai plant is the most important part of its care. Too much or too little water can be fatal for your Bonsai plant. Too much water can lead to root rot, fungal diseases and suffocation. Too little water can lead to dehydration, wilting and leaf drop. The soil should always be slightly moist, but never soaked or bone dry.

You can check the moisture of the soil by sticking your fingers into the soil to feel how wet or dry it is. This is a simple and effective method to know when to water your Bonsai plant. If the soil feels bone dry, it is time to water your Bonsai plant. If the soil feels moist, you can wait a little longer. If the soil feels wet, you have overwatered and you should let the excess water drain away.

 

Pruning

Your Bonsai plant needs pruning to determine and maintain its shape and style. You can do two types of pruning: maintenance pruning and topiary pruning. Always use sharp and clean tools to prune your Bonsai plant.

Maintenance pruning: Perform this during the growing season to maintain the shape of the Bonsai. Prune new shoots back to one or two leaves, especially at the top and outside, to encourage growth inward and downward. Also remove dead or damaged branches.

Shape Pruning: Do this in the winter when the Bonsai is dormant. Remove thick branches that disrupt the aesthetics, such as those that obscure the trunk, cross each other, or grow unnaturally. Cut close to the trunk and treat pruning wounds with wound paste to promote healing.

To prune your Bonsai plant you will need sharp and clean tools such as pruning shears, loppers and knob pliers.

Conclusion

A Bonsai plant is a great addition to your home or garden. With the right care, you can let your Bonsai plant flourish and enjoy its beauty.

Thanks for reading and have fun with your Bonsai tree!

 

Happy growing, fellow plant lovers!

Jonathan, Botanist at The Green Bottle Garden