I had no idea

The good news? This is one of the easiest plant-care tasks you can do. Here’s how:

A chopstick, pencil, skewer, or small stick (anything slim and non-damaging).

Gently poke holes into the soil using your chopstick or pencil. Insert it about 2-3 inches deep, depending on the size of the pot.

Move the stick slightly in a circular motion to create small air pockets. Avoid damaging the roots.

Repeat this process around the entire pot, spacing holes every 1-2 inches apart.

Water your plant after aeration to help distribute oxygen and nutrients evenly.

That’s it! 30 seconds and your plant’s roots will be breathing better instantly.

How Often Should You Aerate?
For best results, aerate your houseplants every 2-3 weeks, especially if you notice the soil becoming hard or water sitting on top instead of absorbing quickly.

If the soil is extremely compacted, use a small fork to gently loosen the top layer (about ½ inch). This prevents root damage while helping break up the hardened soil.

Aerating your houseplants is an easy, often overlooked task that can dramatically improve plant health. It takes less than a minute and helps prevent root rot, nutrient deficiencies, and poor water absorption. So grab a chopstick, poke some holes, and give your plant babies a breath of fresh air—they’ll thank you with lush, thriving growth! 🌱✨