Are you looking to add a touch of elegance and serenity to your home or office space? Look no further than the big floor plant! These stunning plants can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making them a statement piece in any room. But with great size comes great responsibility, and caring for a big floor plant requires some special attention. In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know to keep your big floor plant thriving.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Big Floor Plant
With so many varieties of big floor plants to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. Some popular options include the Fiddle Leaf Fig, the Rubber Plant, and the Dracaena. When selecting a big floor plant, consider the amount of light your space receives, as well as the temperature and humidity levels. If you're new to plant parenthood, you may want to start with a low-maintenance option like the ZZ Plant or the Pothos.
Lighting Requirements
Big floor plants generally prefer bright, indirect light, but some can tolerate low light conditions. If your space receives direct sunlight, consider using a sheer curtain to filter the light and prevent scorching. East- or west-facing windows are ideal for big floor plants, as they provide gentle, indirect light. Avoid placing your plant in a spot with low light, as this can lead to weak and spindly growth.
Watering and Humidity
Over-watering is one of the most common mistakes when it comes to caring for big floor plants. These plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered only when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Water your plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain from the pot. To maintain the right level of humidity, you can place the pot on a tray filled with water and pebbles or use a humidifier nearby.
Fertilization
Feed your big floor plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the roots. You can also use a fertilizer specifically formulated for indoor plants, which may contain additional nutrients like micronutrients and beneficial microbes.
Pruning and Training
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of your big floor plant. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems, and cut back long branches to encourage bushy growth. You can also prune your plant to maintain a desired shape or size. For plants with a single stem, like the Dracaena, you can remove the top inch of the stem to encourage branching.
Pest Control
Check your big floor plant regularly for signs of pests, such as spider mites, mealybugs, or scale. If you notice any unusual activity, treat your plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent infestations, keep your plant clean by wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth and removing any debris from the pot.
Potting and Repotting
Big floor plants typically need to be repotted every 1-2 years as they outgrow their containers. Choose a pot that is only 1-2 sizes larger than the current one, and use a well-draining potting mix. When repotting, gently remove the plant from its pot, taking care not to damage the roots. Trim away any circling roots and add fresh potting mix around the roots.
Common Problems and Solutions
Despite your best efforts, your big floor plant may still encounter some common problems. Here are some solutions to common issues:
- Yellowing leaves: Over-watering or under-watering can cause yellowing leaves. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
- Droopy leaves: Lack of humidity or underwatering can cause droopy leaves. Increase the humidity around your plant or water it more frequently.
- Pests: Check your plant regularly for signs of pests and treat promptly if necessary.
- Slow growth: Lack of light or nutrients can cause slow growth. Consider moving your plant to a brighter location or fertilizing more frequently.
By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be well on your way to becoming a big floor plant expert. Remember to stay patient and observant, as every plant is unique and may require some trial and error. With the right care and attention, your big floor plant will thrive and bring beauty and serenity to your space.
At Botanic Beam, we're dedicated to providing you with the best and most in-depth information on plant care. Whether you're a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting out, we're here to help you grow your green thumb. Happy planting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a big floor plant?
A big floor plant is a type of indoor plant that is typically large in size, often reaching heights of 3-6 feet or more, and is placed on the floor rather than on a table or shelf. These plants are often used to add a touch of greenery to a room and can help purify the air and improve the aesthetic appeal of a space.
What are some popular types of big floor plants?
Some popular types of big floor plants include fiddle leaf figs, bird of paradise, rubber plants, and dracaena. These plants are often chosen for their large, dramatic leaves and ability to thrive in indoor conditions.
How do I choose the right big floor plant for my space?
When choosing a big floor plant, consider the amount of light your space receives, as well as the temperature and humidity levels. You should also think about the size of the plant and how it will fit in with your existing decor. Finally, consider your level of plant care experience and choose a plant that is suitable for your skill level.
How often should I water my big floor plant?
The frequency of watering will depend on the specific type of plant you have, as well as the climate and humidity levels in your space. As a general rule, most big floor plants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings, so check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water.
How much light does my big floor plant need?
Most big floor plants prefer bright, indirect light, but some can tolerate low light conditions. If you're unsure, check the plant tag or do some research to determine the specific lighting needs of your plant. Placing your plant near a north- or east-facing window is often a good option.
Can I put my big floor plant outside?
While it may be tempting to put your big floor plant outside, it's generally not a good idea. Most big floor plants are adapted to indoor conditions and may not be able to withstand the intense sunlight, wind, and temperature fluctuations of the outdoors. If you do need to move your plant outside, make sure to acclimate it gradually and provide protection from the elements.
How do I fertilize my big floor plant?
Fertilizing your big floor plant can help promote healthy growth and development. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package. You can also fertilize your plant with compost or manure tea for a more natural approach.
Why are the leaves on my big floor plant turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on a big floor plant can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, too much direct sunlight, or a lack of nutrients. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule as needed. Also, consider fertilizing your plant to provide it with the nutrients it needs to thrive.
How do I prune my big floor plant?
Pruning your big floor plant can help maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Use clean, sharp pruning tools to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems. You can also prune your plant to encourage bushy growth or to maintain a specific shape.
Can I propagate my big floor plant?
Many big floor plants can be propagated through stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, or division. Research the specific propagation method for your plant and follow the instructions carefully. This can be a great way to share plants with friends or create new plants for your own space.
How do I repot my big floor plant?
Repotting your big floor plant can help provide it with fresh soil and a larger pot if necessary. Choose a pot that is only one to two sizes larger than the current one, and use a well-draining potting mix. Gently remove the plant from its pot, taking care not to damage the roots, and place it in the new pot.
Why is my big floor plant droopy?
A droopy big floor plant can be caused by a variety of factors, including underwatering, overwatering, or a lack of humidity. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule as needed. You can also try misting the leaves with water to increase the humidity around the plant.
Can I use big floor plants to improve air quality?
Yes, big floor plants are great for improving air quality! They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making the air in your space fresher and healthier to breathe. Some plants, such as spider plants and peace lilies, are particularly effective at removing pollutants from the air.
How do I deal with pests on my big floor plant?
Check your plant regularly for signs of pests, such as spider mites, mealybugs, or scale. If you notice any pests, isolate the plant and treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label carefully to avoid harming your plant.
Can I use big floor plants in my office?
Absolutely! Big floor plants can be a great addition to an office space, helping to purify the air and create a calming atmosphere. Choose a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in indoor conditions, such as a snake plant or ZZ plant.
How do I care for my big floor plant during the winter months?
During the winter months, most big floor plants require less water and fertilizer. Reduce your watering schedule and stop fertilizing until the spring when the plant becomes more active again. You can also consider moving your plant to a brighter location to help it get the light it needs.
Can I use big floor plants in my bedroom?
Yes, big floor plants can be a great addition to a bedroom, helping to purify the air and create a calming atmosphere. Choose a plant that prefers low light conditions, such as a Chinese evergreen or pothos, and place it in a corner or against a wall.
How do I choose the right pot for my big floor plant?
When choosing a pot for your big floor plant, consider the size of the plant, as well as the material and drainage of the pot. A pot that is too small can restrict the growth of the plant, while a pot that is too large can cause the soil to become too wet. Look for a pot with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
Can I use big floor plants to block a view?
Yes, big floor plants can be a great way to block a view or create a sense of privacy. Choose a plant with large, dense leaves, such as a bird of paradise or fiddle leaf fig, and place it in front of the area you want to block.
How do I deal with root bound big floor plants?
If your big floor plant has become root bound, it's time to repot it. Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. If the roots are circling or growing out of the pot, it's time to move the plant to a larger pot with fresh soil.
Can I use big floor plants in a living room?
Absolutely! Big floor plants can be a great addition to a living room, helping to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Choose a plant that prefers bright, indirect light, such as a rubber plant or dracaena, and place it in a corner or against a wall.
How do I care for my big floor plant during the summer months?
During the summer months, most big floor plants require more water and fertilizer. Increase your watering schedule and fertilize your plant regularly to promote healthy growth and development. You can also consider moving your plant to a shadier location to protect it from intense sunlight.
Can I use big floor plants to improve the aesthetic appeal of a room?
Yes, big floor plants can be a great way to improve the aesthetic appeal of a room. Choose a plant with attractive leaves or flowers, and place it in a decorative pot to add a touch of style to your space.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.