Timber Floor Care with Indoor Plants

With increased time spent at home over the past year, evidence is suggesting that biophilia – an innate and genetically determined love for the natural living world, is keeping us sane in our work from home life. 

When it comes to timber flooring, water damage is one of the worst things that can affect your flooring, resulting in warping, buckled boards or permanent marking and stains.

1. Prevent Exposure to Excess Moisture: Use waterproof saucers, trays and enclosed pots to catch any excess water from reaching your timber floor. Additionally, water your plants outdoors or in wet areas and return them once water has drained.
2. Floors Need Air Circulation: Not placing your plants directly on the floor and by using plant stands allow you to circulate air underneath the plant, reducing any chance of trapped condensation and easily spotting if you have overwatered a plant, so you can clean up the spill promptly.
3. Secure Your Pots: Pets, children or gusts of wind though your home can knock over pots, which may leave soil and moisture unattended on your floor for long durations. Making sure your plants are all in safe locations in your home can prevent unwanted damage. 
4. Protect Against Scratches: Using felt pads on the bottom of pots will protect your floor from any unwanted scratches⁠ from relocating pots. Avoid dragging or sliding your pots along the floor.  
5. Water Responsibly: Hydrate and water your plants with care and wipe up any spills immediately.  
6. Regular Cleaning: Regularly sweep or vacuum around pots to remove any soil or leaves to prevent any floor scratches. Follow up with the flooring manufacturers recommended floor cleaning product to take the best care of your flooring.

^{Project: Mangawhai My Pad | Images:Annie Spratt, Prudence Earl | Unsplash}