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    Ferns: Are They Really So Hard to Grow?

    by Plant Circle

    Ferns: Are They Really So Hard to Grow?

    Have you ever found yourself grabbing a stunning silver blue fern or a bushy Boston fern at the store, only to put it back when you remember how many times you’ve accidentally killed your previous ferns? We’ve all been there. I can’t count on the fingers of both hands how many ferns I’ve brought home only to watch them wither away. However, after some trials and errors, I’ve figured out how to grow them successfully and even discovered which varieties are hardy and thrive on neglect. Here are my best tips and findings to help you care for your ferns. Watering You might have heard the famous advice: “Keep moist but not waterlogged.” But what does that really mean? Essentially, it means that when you touch the potting mix, it shouldn’t feel dry, but it also shouldn’t be muddy. Think of it as watering more often with small amounts of water rather than a lot of water once a week. Here are a few things to consider: Planter Type: Avoid terracotta pots as they absorb moisture and dry out the soil faster. Unless you enjoy daily plant care, opt for a plastic nursery pot placed inside a decorative planter. This setup helps maintain moisture levels. Drainage: Ensure your planter has proper drainage. If you overwater your fern, you’ll notice water sitting at the bottom of the planter. Ferns dislike “wet feet” (unlike some plants like Alocasia) and can develop root rot if left in standing water. Water Quality: Use distilled or filtered water, or even rainwater if possible. This helps avoid any issues with the chemicals present in tap water. Soil One crucial step for fern care is to repot your fern as soon as you bring it home. Most store-bought ferns are pot-bound, and upgrading their soil can make a big difference. Here’s how to handle it: Fern Potting Mix 5L Pre-Repotting Soak: Generously water the plant and let it soak to loosen the root ball, making repotting easier and ensuring that the roots are more pliable, reducing the risk of damage during the repotting process. Soil Choice: Since ferns like to stay moist, a good potting mix would be coco coir with perlite and some peat to lower pH. Coco coir is known to retain moisture for longer periods, making it an excellent choice for ferns. A quick Google search based on the specific fern you have will guide you to the best soil type. Light While ferns don’t like direct sunlight, they still need a good amount of light to thrive. Please don’t place your ferns in dark corners or windowless bathrooms. The more light they get (without direct sunlight), the better they’ll grow. Humidity If your bathroom happens to have a window, it will be a great spot for your fern as they love higher humidity. Otherwise, speaking from experience, I had no problems with ferns in my Berlin apartment with average humidity. Recommended Ferns for Beginners For those new to growing ferns, I recommend starting with these varieties: Bird’s Nest Fern: Hardy fern that doesn’t mind if you forget to water it occasionally. It’s broad, arching fronds can add a lush, tropical feel to any indoor space, making it an ideal houseplant for those looking to bring a touch of greenery into their home. This fern thrives in indirect light and can tolerate low-light conditions, making it perfect for rooms without much natural sunlight. Additionally, it can help purify the air, contributing to a healthier living environment. Just make sure to keep its soil slightly moist and avoid letting water sit in the crown, as this can cause rot. Crocodile Fern: Super easy to grow and possibly the hardest fern to kill—as long as you don’t overwater it! It tolerates drying out between waterings quite well. This unique fern, with its rugged, crocodile-like textured leaves, makes for an attractive indoor plant. Additionally, it thrives in indirect light and is exceptionally adaptable to various environments. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, the Crocodile Fern is a delightful addition to your plant collection due to its resilience and low-maintenance nature. Boston Fern: This guy is definitely next level, but if you repot it and keep it far away from touch with enough space around it in a well-lit spot, it will grow like crazy! Additionally, it’s important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as Boston Ferns thrive in high humidity. Regular misting and placing a humidifier nearby can also aid its growth. Don’t forget to feed it with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every month during the growing season to ensure it receives all the necessary nutrients. With just a bit of care and attention, you’ll have a lush, thriving fern that adds a touch of natural beauty to any space. Asparagus Fern: Probably my favorite! This one definitely prefers regular watering and doesn’t like to be dry, but in my experience, it won’t die quickly if you ever water it a day late. Its delicate, feathery foliage adds a touch of elegance to any space, and it’s relatively forgiving when it comes to lighting conditions. Although it thrives in bright, indirect light, it can tolerate lower light levels, making it a versatile choice for various rooms in your home. Growing it near humidifier will help maintain its lush appearance and prevent the leaves from drying out, which is particularly helpful if you live in a dry climate or during colder months when indoor heating can reduce humidity levels. By following these tips, you can turn your home into a fern-friendly haven. Happy growing!Monika Like what you read? Why not sign up for our newsletter and never miss a blog post? Our Instagram is also a great place for plant care tips. Have a request about topics we should cover? Email monika@plantcircle.co with your suggestions! Disclaimer: This blog post is written from a well-lit Berlin apartment; please keep that in mind. If you live in a different part of the world, growing ferns at home might be easier or harder. Read about some of our other answers to some beginner house plant question here.

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    Plant profile: Monstera Siltepecana

    by Plant Circle

    Plant profile: Monstera Siltepecana

    Let’s take a look at how to care for Monstera Siltepecana; the first Monstera we ever produced ourselves for Plant Circle! We think it’s the perfect plant for the beginners and collectors alike, and here is what we’ve learned about keeping it happy during the last couple of years. Monstera Siltepecana is a popular houseplant thanks to it being easy care and having attractive foliage. Endemic to Mexico and Central America, it’s renowned for the silver markings on its immature foliage.Like other Monstera species, Siltepecana is rather easy going and doesn’t demand too much attention from us. This plant however undergoes a considerably big transformation from the juvenile to the mature form, and like most Monstera species, it can develop fenestration on its leaves as it reaches maturity. In order to experience the transformation first hand, you must first ensure that the plant enjoys the most ideal conditions growing up! Soil. Plant your Monstera Siltepecana in an airy potting mix, either premade or one that you make yourself using bark, perlite and peat moss. Remember that a good potting mix will ensure healthy roots! Siltepecana cannot stand direct sunlight and should receive bright indirect light instead. It would enjoy a spot 1-1,5 meters away from a south facing window, or sitting directly on an east, north-east, north west ,or south east facing window. The afternoon sun of the west facing window could potentially scorch your Siltepecana, so be careful! Watering. We suggest keeping your Monstera on the dry side, meaning water only when the top 3 cm of soil have dried out and is dry to the touch. If you’d like to see your Monstera develop holes in the leaves, you’ll wanna provide above average humidity, and most importantly something to climb. It is crucial for the maturity of the plant to have something to climb on. Once you attach it to the moss pole, make sure to keep it moist. If you do not care about the leaves maturing and getting fenestrated you can also grow it in a hanging basket. A juvenile Monstera Siltepecana is also a great addition to a terrarium! Growth rate. Siltepecana is an extremely fast grower. From leaf spike to fully unfurled leaf it only needs a few days under ideal growing conditions, and under less ideal conditions it might take a few days longer… still pretty fast, if you ask us! We had observed some crazy fast growth on our plant that we keep in the greenhouse.  In just 6 months it went from a baby sized plant to a one meter tall lady, and it just gave us first fenestrated leaves.  Propagation. This plant is super easy to propagate in water from cuttings. Simply cut between two nodes. They’ll often produce small aerial roots, which means you can also use the air-layering technique. Take some moist moss and wrap around an aerial root, secure with foil, et voila! Give it a couple of weeks and you should see the aerial roots pushing some fresh white roots. Once the roots are long enough, we suggest over 5cm, cut it off and plant it in moss to develop further. You can also easily transfer it into water if you’re more comfortable with that method. Pests. Monstera Siltepecana is prone to getting thrips, however, we have noticed that with the use of a store bought pesticide, it’s not too hard to get rid of the pests.If the infestation is very bad, we suggest using propagation to save the plant.    

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    Unlock the Magic of Monstera Adansonii: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Variety for Your Home!

    by Plant Circle

    Unlock the Magic of Monstera Adansonii: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Variety for Your Home!

    From the adorable Baby Adansonii to the stunning Mint variegation and towering XL, Swiss Cheese Plants are as diverse as they are charming. In this guide, we dive into the unique traits, growth habits, and care tips for each Monstera Adansonii variety offered at Plant Circle. Whether you're a new plant parent or a seasoned collector, you'll find the perfect leafy companion to suit your space and style. Plus, learn how to keep your Swiss Cheese Plant thriving in European climates with our expert care advice. 🌿

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    Why Do Calatheas Love to Die? (And What to Get Instead If You're Tired of the Drama)

    by Plant Circle

    Why Do Calatheas Love to Die? (And What to Get Instead If You're Tired of the Drama)

    Stop trying to make Calathea happen. It’s not going to happen. Let’s all take a moment of silence for the latest calathea you brought home with such hope in your heart… and found shriveled into a crispy relic of its former self two weeks later. You misted it. You spoke to it. You gave it filtered water collected under a full moon, and still—“my favorite thing to do is die,” whispered the calathea, as it dropped another leaf and gaslit you into thinking it was your fault.     Thanks to Reddit sage new_butterfly223, we can now confirm: calatheas know what they’re doing. They are dramatic. They are beautiful. And they are the most high-maintenance plant roommates you could ever invite into your home. Somehow, despite all this, every grocery store and Baumarkt in the country seems to have Calatheas for days—just sitting there like botanical sirens, luring you into yet another heartbreak. We all start out the same: enchanted by those gorgeous patterned leaves, ready to become a calathea parent. But soon you’re googling “why is my calathea sad” at 2am, surrounded by a graveyard of humidity trays and emotionally shattered fiddle leaf figs who are just happy someone else is the problem child now. Sound familiar? If you’re stressed about keeping your Calathea alive, you’re definitely not alone. These plants belong to the Marantaceae family (including Maranta and Stromanthe) and are notorious for being picky about light, water, and humidity levels. Signs Your Calathea Is Plotting Something Brown edges? Emotional manipulation. Curling leaves? Passive-aggressively asking for a raise in humidity. Yellowing? They read your aura and didn’t like it. Flourishing? Just kidding, it’s storing energy for a dramatic decline. Let’s be honest: we still love them. But sometimes, self-care means realizing calatheas are the plant version of a toxic situationship, and you deserve better. If you're brave enough to keep trying (respect!), we’ve got some tips that might actually help. Check out our Calathea care guide for advice on humidity, light, and keeping the drama to a minimum. Bonus tip: Calatheas are pet friendly! So if you’ve got curious cats or mischievous dogs, they’re in the clear. Aglaonemas, on the other hand—while much easier to keep alive—are unfortunately toxic to pets. Because of course the calm, low-maintenance one has a dark side. So... Instead of That One Calathea That Keeps Dying, Try This Aglaonema Instead: If you're ready to stop stressing over your Calathea and want a low-maintenance plant with a similar look, there’s hope. We’ve got some stunning Aglaonema varieties that offer bold foliage without the constant drama. Here’s your go-to guide for some easier alternatives to Calathea. Because Aglaonemas are the loyal best friend who texts back, doesn’t flake, and thrives even when you forget to water them for a week. Here are some perfect swaps: Calathea Drama Queen Chill Aglaonema Alternative Calathea Orbifolia Aglaonema ‘Silver Bay’ – same silvery elegance, none of the weekly meltdowns. Calathea Medallion Aglaonema ‘Pictum Tricolor’ – still flashy, but won’t demand filtered rainforest mist. Calathea Beauty Star Aglaonema ‘Pink Stripe’ – vibrant and unique, but emotionally balanced. Calathea White Fusion Aglaonema ‘Creta’ – variegation? Check. Attitude? Absolutely not. Calathea Makoyana Aglaonema ‘Stripes’ – same narrow leaves, but far less likely to give up on life. Final Thoughts To all the plant lovers out there mourning yet another lost calathea: you are not alone. They’re basically botanical performance artists, and you were just part of the show. So if you’re tired of googling “how to fix my dying Calathea,” it might be time to simplify your plant life. Whether you want to stick it out or switch to a lower-stress alternative, we’ve got you covered with plants that won’t break your heart—or your spirit. Ready for a plant that actually wants to live, maybe it’s time to break up with Calathea and swipe right on Aglaonema. No judgment—we’ve all been there. And if you do insist on trying “just one more calathea,” we’ll be here, misting and commiserating with you, one crispy leaf at a time. Want a plant that won't ghost you? Check out our Aglaonema collection and finally feel appreciated.

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    Why Do Some Plants Have Two Names? Understanding Botanical and Common Names

    by Plant Circle

    Why Do Some Plants Have Two Names? Understanding Botanical and Common Names

    Have you ever noticed that some of your favorite plants go by more than one name? For instance, you may have seen the popular Alocasia Frydek, but it also goes by Alocasia micholitziana. This dual-naming system can be confusing for plant lovers, especially when trying to find reliable care information or discussing plants with others. Let's explore why plants often have two names and how this naming system helps (or sometimes complicates) our understanding of the green world. 1. The Botanical Name: A Global Standard The first name for a plant, like Alocasia micholitziana, is its botanical name. This name follows specific rules set by botanists to create a global standard. Here’s what makes botanical names so useful: Consistency Across Languages and Regions Botanical names are part of a standardized system called binomial nomenclature (meaning "two-name system") created by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century. This system provides each plant with a unique name that’s recognized worldwide, regardless of language or local customs. For example, Alocasia micholitziana will be known by this name whether you’re in the United States, Japan, or Brazil, avoiding confusion caused by regional or language-based common names. Precision in Plant Classification Each botanical name has two parts: Genus (e.g., Alocasia): This is the plant’s larger family group, grouping together plants with similar characteristics. Species (e.g., micholitziana): This identifies the individual species within the genus, giving it a unique identity. In some cases, there may also be a varietal or subspecies name if a plant has naturally occurring variations. These classifications help scientists, botanists, and growers to discuss and study plants accurately and track subtle differences between similar species. 2. The Common Name: Plant Names in Everyday Language The second name you often hear for a plant, like "Frydek," is its common name. Common names are usually less formal and vary based on local culture, language, or even popular trends. Easy to Remember Common names are often catchier and easier to remember than botanical names, especially for casual plant enthusiasts. For instance, “Alocasia Frydek” might be easier to recall than Alocasia micholitziana, particularly when recommending the plant to a friend. Naming by Appearance or Origin Common names often come from distinctive characteristics, like shape, color, or origin. "Frydek," for example, refers to a specific variety of Alocasia micholitziana known for its velvety, dark green leaves and prominent white veins. Common names can evoke an image of the plant, making it easier to associate the name with its look. However, one plant might have several common names in different regions or languages, which can cause confusion. This is why botanical names remain important for precision, especially in scientific contexts. 3. Why It’s Important to Know Both Names For plant enthusiasts, knowing both the botanical and common names can be incredibly helpful: Finding Accurate Care Information: Sometimes, searching for care tips by common name alone can lead to confusion, as many plants share similar nicknames. If you search "Frydek," you might get mixed results about its care requirements. However, using its botanical name, Alocasia micholitziana, can help you find more precise care information specifically for this variety. Shopping for Plants: Knowing both names helps when buying plants online or at nurseries. For example, if a plant shop labels it as Alocasia micholitziana but you've only heard it called "Frydek," you might miss out on the plant you’re looking for—or accidentally buy a similar species instead. Avoiding Mix-ups with Similar Plants: Some plants have similar appearances but belong to entirely different species. For instance, the "Philodendron" and "Pothos" genera have plants with heart-shaped leaves that can be confused. Relying on botanical names can help you distinguish between look-alikes and ensure you’re purchasing or caring for the correct plant. 4. Why Some Botanical Names Change Over Time Sometimes, the botanical names of plants actually change! Advances in genetic research allow botanists to classify plants more accurately based on their DNA. Occasionally, a plant may be reassigned to a different genus or have its species name updated. For example, Sansevieria trifasciata (commonly known as "snake plant") was recently reclassified as part of the genus Dracaena. While these changes may feel like extra steps for plant enthusiasts, they’re part of the effort to keep our knowledge of plant species up to date and accurate. 5. Tips for Remembering and Using Plant Names To avoid confusion, here are a few simple tips for remembering and using plant names: Keep a Plant Journal: Write down both the botanical and common names of your plants. This way, you’ll have a quick reference if you need specific information. Label Your Plants: If you have a large collection, label your pots with both names. Not only is it helpful for care, but it’s also a great conversation starter with guests who are curious about your plants. Ask for Botanical Names When Shopping: When buying plants, ask nursery staff for the botanical name. Most plant sellers are happy to provide this information to help you find care information and avoid mix-ups. Use Plant ID Apps: Many plant identification apps, such as PictureThis or PlantSnap, offer both common and botanical names, which is useful when researching plants or expanding your collection. In Summary While it might seem confusing at first, having both botanical and common names for plants can be incredibly helpful. Botanical names ensure accuracy and global understanding, while common names provide familiarity and accessibility. Embracing both types of names can enrich your plant knowledge, help you care for your plants effectively, and connect you with other plant enthusiasts worldwide. So the next time you’re admiring your Alocasia Frydek (Alocasia micholitziana), you can appreciate both the history and the science behind its name! Happy planting! Read about some of our other answers to some beginner house plant question here.

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