Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Want to Compost Your Old Houseplants? Do Some Detective Work First!

If you like to compost, odds are you like to take care of plants. But what do you do when your beloved plants pass away? It seems only fitting to return them to the earth as compost that will nourish a new generation of plants.

However, there are some things to keep in mind before you put your old houseplants in your backyard bin. As a rule of thumb, do some step-by-step sleuthing before you give your plant a proper burial…

Check for a pulse. Can you resuscitate your houseplant?

Even if your houseplant looks like it’s passed on, you may be able to revive it with some good old-fashioned sunlight and water. Check out this article for tips.

Identify the victim. What kind of plant was it?

Some houseplants, (pothos, snake plant, varieties of succulents, etc.) propagate easilyThis means that when you compost your old plant, little plant babies (volunteers) may come up in your bin and eventually in your garden. It’s best to chop up these troublemakers before backyard composting them.

Find the culprit. Why did your houseplant die?

If your late plant fell victim to disease or pest infestation, do NOT put it in your compost bin! Most backyard compost bins don’t reach the temperature needed to kill pathogens, and the same pests that caused your houseplant’s demise could make their way into your compost and wreak havoc.

So, whether you feel like a criminal for killing your plant or you’re mourning its natural demise, you may be able turn your houseplant into compost. Just make sure it’s actually dead, cut up your plant if necessary, and avoid composting diseased or infested houseplants. Stay safe out there, detectives!


And some fun plant art just because…


Guest blogger and houseplant hoarder: Abigail Miller



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