Holiday Plants 101: Poinsettias, Christmas Cactus, Norfolk Island Pine, and Amaryllis

Holiday Plants 101: Poinsettias, Christmas Cactus, Norfolk Island Pine, and Amaryllis

It's our special holiday episode of Plant RX, and we're talking about the four stars of the season: Poinsettias, Holiday cactus, Norfolk Island pine, and amaryllis. Justin, Michelle, and Marcos break down what makes these plants "holiday plants" in the first place, plus the behind-the-scenes details that make them showstoppers. You'll learn why the red on a poinsettia isn't actually the flower, how to spot a fresher plant by checking the tiny yellow blooms, why holiday cactus can become a passed-down family heirloom, how Norfolk Island pines are grown from seed (yes, it takes years), and what's really going on with wax-dipped amaryllis bulbs if you want to keep them growing after the holidays. Stick around to the end and tell us: what's your favorite holiday plant? 🌿🎄

Pothos Naming Debate, Spider Mites vs. Spiders, Fast-Growing Houseplants

Justin and Michelle talk about the common name confusion around Epipremnum species — is it always "Pothos," or should we be more precise? Listeners will learn why common names can be messy, how Costa Farms approaches naming for plant parents, and why philodendrons add another layer of confusion. The hosts cover how to tell the difference between a spider mite infestation and a regular spider. They share practical tips—from spotting tiny moving specks to using your phone camera or magnifying glass — plus a simple check for leaf damage that gives spider mites away. Finally, Justin and Michelle discuss their favorite fast-growing houseplants. From Monstera deliciosa and fiddle leaf figs to Albo Pothos and Monstera Peru, they offer plenty of inspiration for plant parents who love quick, rewarding growth.

Overwatered Plants, Variegated Leaf Browning, Golden Crocodile Care

Justin and Michelle talk about what to do when you bring home a houseplant that's been severely overwatered. From simple drying tricks to "root surgery," listeners will learn practical steps to save their plants and what warning signs to look for. The hosts cover browning on Thai Constellation variegated leaves. They share how to tell if it's stress, disease, or just the plant adjusting to a new environment, plus helpful tips for monitoring and recovery. Justin and Michelle discuss the growth habits of Philodendron Golden Crocodile. They explain whether it needs a moss pole, how it can be grown self-heading or climbing, and why it's a versatile addition for plant parents.

PlantRx Podcast from Costa Farms: Monstera deliciosa, Fruit & Fenestrations, Easy-Care Plant Draft

Marcos, Justin, and Michelle talk about Monstera deliciosa—from how to pronounce it, to where it comes from, to why its leaves develop those iconic fenestrations. Listeners will also hear the truth about its fruit: what it tastes like, how to ripen it safely, and whether it's worth the hype. The hosts cover Monstera care tips, including staking, light levels, watering, and dealing with aerial roots. They share practical tricks for getting that showroom look at home without stressing your plant. Finally, the team drafts their top easy-care plants, from classics like snake plant and pothos to left-field picks like orchids and ponytail palms. You'll walk away with inspiration and confidence to expand your collection.

PlantRx Podcast from Costa Farms: Watering Xanthosoma, Pruning Monstera, and Growing Pothos Faster

We love houseplants. And we want you to, too --- so we've put together this podcast where we answer common questions and share tips to help you be successful. Michelle, Senior Integrated Pest Manager, and Horticulturist Justin answer questions from the houseplant community. In this episode they cover: 1) Michelle and Justin talk about watering Xanthosoma (aka Caladium lindenii, aka Phytotaenium lindenii). How much is too much, and what's not enough? Picking it up can be one of the best ways. We talk about it --- as well as other factors that can cause brown leaf tips/edges. 2) Pruning Little Swiss Monstera (Monstera adansonii) so the vines don't get too long and scraggly. Good news: You can prune this plant any time without worry. Bonus: Michelle talks about how you can propagate the pieces of your Little Swiss Monstera you prune off! 3) Pushing as much growth from your Marble Queen Pothos (Epipremnum aureum 'Marble Queen'). The biggest thing for this plant is enough light. While Pothos tolerate low light, they grow best and fastest in bright conditions (and a warm environment). Also check to make sure it's not too rootbound...being rootbound can stunt growth. Plus, they tackle the myth that you can use iron supplements to fix chlorotic (yellowing) houseplants. Enjoy this episode? Then dig in to our others. We've covered topics like getting rid of fungus gnats, spider mites, and other pests, pruning and repotting tips, and more. Check them out at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhoGaaEXGU0PrZS8_nd1ClCEsNMAfVu4D [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhoGaaEXGU0PrZS8_nd1ClCEsNMAfVu4D] Do you have questions for Michelle and Justin that you'd like to hear covered on a future episode of the podcast? Drop them in the comments below or email us at Questions@CostaFarms.com. [Questions@CostaFarms.com.] And, if you enjoyed this video, press the like button and subscribe so you know when our next episode of Plant Rx is out.