Houseplants and Bulbs: Spring Care Tips from Willow & Sage

There’s something about this time of year that makes you want to bring a little green inside - a promise of brighter days ahead. At Willow & Sage, I’ve been welcoming lots of beautiful bulbs and houseplants into the shop, and customers often ask the same thing: How do I keep them looking their best?

Here are a few gentle, easy-to-follow tips to help your plants thrive as we move into spring.

1. Light Matters Most

Houseplants and bulbs both love light - but not all plants want the same amount.

• Bright, indirect light is ideal for most of the houseplants you’ll find in the shop, like peace lilies, alstroemeria and small tropicals. A windowsill that gets morning sun is a lovely spot.

• Bulbs (like hyacinths and tulips) often do best near a light source once they start to shoot - it keeps them growing strong and prevents them from flopping.

If a plant’s leaves start to stretch or lean dramatically towards the window, it’s usually asking for a bit more light.

2. Water Wisely

This is where many of us go wrong! Both bulbs and houseplants need water with a purpose:

• Bulbs in decorative pots with no drainage? A little water often is better than too much at once. The compost should be slightly moist, not soggy.

• For most houseplants, check the top of the compost - if it’s dry an inch down, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, wait a day or two.

Never let plants sit in a puddle of water - they don’t like “wet feet”.

3. Temperature & Humidity

Spring can still be chilly overnight, so keep houseplants and bulbs away from cold draughts. Most will happily live in average room temperatures (around 18–21 °C).

Some plants appreciate a touch of humidity - especially if your central heating is running. A simple little tray with pebbles and water underneath the pot can help, or a gentle mist now and again.

4. Feed the Growth

As bulbs and houseplants begin to show new growth, they start to need a little extra food.

• Use a balanced, liquid houseplant fertiliser on plants every few weeks through spring and summer.

• Bulbs in decorative pots can benefit from a gentle feed once shoots are clearly established - just follow the product instructions.

Feeding during active growth makes a noticeable difference.

5. Groom & Spot Issues Early

Part of the pleasure of having plants indoors is caring for them.

• Trim off yellowing leaves and spent flowers - it keeps the plant looking tidy and focuses energy on new growth.

• If you spot a leaf that looks unhappy (brown tips, spots, curling), don’t panic - often it’s just a sign of a little adjustment needed in light or water.

We’re always happy to take a photo or a message if you’re unsure about something you see.

6. Pots, Position & Personality

Plants have their own little personalities!

• Some like snug pots; others benefit from a slightly larger home as they grow.

• Terracotta pots dry a little faster than glazed ones - worth remembering when you’re watering.

• And remember: a plant that thrives in one home might prefer a slightly different spot in another.

Come In & Chat Plants

If you’ve picked up a houseplant or bulb from Willow & Sage recently, you’re more than welcome to drop by and ask anything - we love talking plant care. Whether you’re new to indoor gardening or you’ve been tending plants for years, we’re here to help.

There’s always something fresh in the shop - look out for seasonal bulbs, bold foliage plants and gift-ready green friends that bring life and colour to your home.