I've been living in a super dry area for a couple years now, and honestly, keeping plants healthy and thriving has been way trickier than I expected. Like, I swear sometimes the air just sucks the moisture straight out of everything. Anyway, after losing a few too many houseplants (RIP my fern, you tried your best buddy), I've picked up a few tricks that actually help.
One thing that's made a huge difference for me is mulch. Yeah, mulch—sounds boring, but hear me out. I started adding a pretty thick layer of organic mulch like wood chips or shredded bark around all my outdoor plants. It seriously helps keep the soil from drying out so fast. I don't have to water quite as obsessively anymore, which saves me time and probably money on my water bill too.
Indoors is another story though. Humidity trays are my new best friend these days. Basically just shallow trays filled with pebbles and some water underneath the pots (but don't let the pots sit directly in water). Seems kinda basic but it genuinely helps boost humidity around the plants without turning my house into a swampy mess.
Oh, and grouping plants together indoors also seems to help—I guess they create their own mini microclimate or something? At least that's what I've read online, but it seems legit because they do look happier grouped together than scattered randomly around the room.
Anyway, I'm still figuring things out as I go along, so if you've got any other tips or hacks that work for you when it's drier than dry outside (or inside), please share 'em. My thirsty plants will thank you...
Mulch is definitely underrated, especially in dry climates. I've seen huge improvements in my garden beds since I started using straw mulch—it's lightweight, breaks down nicely, and helps keep the soil cool too. Another thing that's really helped me indoors is terracotta pots. They naturally wick moisture out of the soil, which sounds counterintuitive at first, but it actually helps regulate moisture levels better. You just have to water a tad more often, but it's easier to avoid overwatering.
Also, if you're open to it, consider adding drought-tolerant or native plants into your mix. I've gradually swapped out some of my thirstiest plants for succulents and local natives that handle dryness way better. It's less stressful for me and honestly feels good knowing I'm working with the environment instead of against it. Plus, they usually attract beneficial pollinators and wildlife.
Anyway, sounds like you're already doing a lot right—humidity trays worked wonders for my indoor plants too. Good luck with your plant adventures...and RIP to your fern friend.
"Another thing that's really helped me indoors is terracotta pots. They naturally wick moisture out of the soil, which sounds counterintuitive at first, but it actually helps regulate moisture levels better."
Have you noticed if terracotta pots help with fungus gnats too? I switched a few of my indoor plants to terracotta last summer after a frustrating battle with gnats, and it seemed to make a difference. Also totally agree about native plants—my yard's been way happier since adding some drought-tolerant perennials. Less watering, more butterflies...win-win.
I switched a few of my indoor plants to terracotta last summer after a frustrating battle with gnats, and it seemed to make a difference. Also totally agree about native plants—my yard's been way...
I've noticed fewer gnats since switching to terracotta too...maybe because the soil dries out quicker and gnats hate that? Still, every now and then one stubborn little guy buzzes around just to mock me. Glad I'm not alone!
