Houseplants in harmattan
Keeping houseplants happy in the harmattan
The harmattan is milder in Warri than up north, but the dry air and dust still brown the tips of ferns, palms and calatheas.
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Raise the humidity
Stand pots on a tray of pebbles and water, with the pot above the water line. As it evaporates, it moistens the air around the leaves.
Group plants together; they share humidity.
Water a little more often
Soil dries faster in dry wind. Check with a finger every few days and water when the top two centimetres are dry. Snake plants and succulents still need very little.
Dust the leaves
Harmattan dust blocks light. Wipe big leaves with a damp cloth every week or two, or give plants a gentle shower.
Keep away from the air conditioner
Cold, dry air from an AC unit makes tips brown even faster. Move plants at least two metres away from the vents.
Plants for this season
Good choices right now
- Snake plant₦8,500 · Any lightForgets you are away. Water less in the rainy season, when the air is wet.
- Golden pothos₦6,000 · Any lightTrails from a shelf or climbs a pole. Cuttings root in a glass of water.
- Areca palm₦15,000 · BrightSoftens a corner and enjoys the humidity. Brown tips mean the air is too dry.
Questions
Readers also ask
Is the harmattan bad for all plants?
No. Succulents, aloe and snake plants barely notice. Ferns, palms and peace lilies feel it most.
Should I mist my plants?
Misting helps for an hour. A pebble tray or grouping plants helps all day.
Getting a garden through the rainy season
From April to October, Warri can get more rain in a week than some cities get in a month. Plants love it, until their roots start to drown.
Come and wander
Open every day from 8am to 6pm on Jakpa Road, Effurun. Free parking, shade, cold zobo, and staff who will tell you honestly if a plant suits your house.