Our Costa Farms Customer Service Plant Gurus field lots of questions about plants. Here are the three of the most common questions -- about watering, repotting, and soil -- and their answers.

Q: I’m confused about watering. How often and how much should I water my plant? How to know if it is over or underwatered?

A: It's best to keep watering simple. Place your finger into the top layer of soil. If moist, do not water. If dry, add water. You will need to spend a little time figuring out your plant's schedule, but monitoring over a few weeks should get you to a point where you are watering once or twice a week.

Keep in mind as seasons change, so will watering needs. When you turn on your air conditioning or heating, humidity will change and the plant will have different water uses.

Always when you water do so until you see water coming out the drain holes. Allow time for the plant to absorb the water. Then empty the drip tray.
Read more about watering plants.

Q: Do I need to repot the plants right away / if not when?

A: The general rules on repotting are this: If you see roots growing out of the drainage holes in the bottom of your pot, it is time for a larger pot.

Do not increase the size of the new pot by more than 2 inches. If you have had your plant for more than 2 years, it’s time for fresh soil. A plant coming from Costa Farms will not need to be repotted for at least one year.
Read more about repotting houseplants.

Q: What type of soil does Costa Farm use?

A: The soil we use is primarily coco coir. We do this because here in south Florida, coco coir is a byproduct of our industry and does not damage precious peat bogs.

Coir is a good choice for most tropical plants unless you tend be be an overwaterer. Coir holds moisture better, so those who water sparingly will find success.
Read more about the sustainability of coir. 

Written by Justin Hancock