Island Collection Care Guide
Water, Sunlight, Neem Oil, Trimming, and Love
At Photosynthesis, we want to ensure that your Island stays healthy and thrives for years to come. Our Islands are self-watering systems that feature a lower chamber for water storage, and each plant is planted with a wick that is perfectly situated below the roots to feed water when the plant needs it.
Water:
Watering your Island is easy, as our Islands have a large water reservoir that allows your plants to drink as much water as they need, whenever they need it. Simply fill the lower chamber when you see that it is running low. However, avoid overfilling the water reservoir as it can cause problems like washing away your precious soil, drowning the plant, and causing the soil to turn to sludge.
Sunlight:
Providing the right amount of sunlight is crucial to the health and growth of your Island. Our plants require sunlight to perform photosynthesis and stimulate growth. Their sunlight requirements vary depending on the type of plant. In general terms, our trees and flowers benefit from plenty of sunlight, while our other varieties grow happy with lower amounts of it. If you need advice on the correct amount of sunlight for your Island, please ask one of our staff members.
Neem Oil:
Pests are another important factor to consider when growing plants. Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that can eat all the new growth and might destroy your plant. Some insects might be so small that you can't see them until it's too late. That is why we strongly recommend using a pest preventative. Photosynthesis Neem Oil is a natural pest preventative made from extracts of the neem tree and scented with eucalyptus. It is safe for humans and pets, reduces insect feeding, and acts as a repellent. We advise you to spray all plant surfaces once a week to keep your plants protected.
Trimming:
Trimming your plants can be daunting, but it is essential for stimulating growth and ensuring that your Island looks beautiful and healthy. We encourage you to trim your plants during spring or summer when they are stronger and actively growing. If you need more information on how to properly trim your plants, check out this article: https://www.wikihow.life/Prune-a-Bonsai-Tree
Cleaning:
Cleaning your plants is also essential to keep them looking beautiful and healthy. Wiping the leaves with a clean cloth every now and then will remove dust that could be getting in the way of photosynthesis. Make sure you remove yellow and old leaves, prune dead growth and weak branches by cutting them off or pulling them with your fingers. Doing this can help your plants redirect their growing energy and make them less prone to pests.
Refreshing:
Refreshing the soil of your Island every year is highly recommended. You can do this by gently removing the plant from the system, removing as much of the old soil as possible, and some of the outer roots. The best way to do this is to gently rake the roots using a fork or bonsai rake. All Photosynthesis products are planted in a growing medium that has a coconut base, as it is less prone to pests and can handle large amounts of moisture without decaying. We offer a refreshing service, so please ask one of our staff members for more information.
Love:
Lastly, show your Island some love! If you have any questions or are having trouble with your Island, please contact us straight away. We are always here to help ensure that your Island flourishes for years to come.
