Catalogs are full of tempting accessories and gadgets to make our plants comfortable indoors.

But are these things necessary to raise indoor plants successfully?

To make the best use of your money, here are a few recommendations.

Not necessary

Soil pH meter:

Proper soil pH is extremely important for outdoor plants. However, indoor plants are growing in a much more controlled environment and it’s very unlikely that any purchased potting mediums would be outside the correct pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 for most plants.

Soil moisture meter:

On the plus side, this gadget is based on the premise that plants should be watered only when needed, not on a schedule. However, interpreting the results is probably more confusing than helpful. Most gardeners insert a finger into the soil to determine whether the soil is dry enough to warrant watering. Pair the finger assessment method with information on whether the specific plant’s soil should dry out or be consistently moist between watering.

Mister bottle:

Many indoor plants are tropical plants that grow naturally in an environment with high humidity. This condition is difficult to replicate indoors, especially during the winter heating season. Unfortunately, daily misting does not boost the humidity level long enough for the plant to take advantage of it. Air plants are an exception and do benefit from misting, which is one method of watering them.

Leaf shine spray:

It’s a good idea to wipe the dust from indoor plant leaves, but leaf shine or polish may just clog up the plant’s pores. A soft, damp cloth works just fine.

Glass watering globes:

Glass globes with appendages must be filled with water and inserted into the soil. While they are supposed to water the plant for up to two weeks, many times all the water runs out immediately. It’s not a good idea to water without monitoring. If you are away for several weeks, place plants in clear plastic bags to create a mini-greenhouse or ask a friend to water them.

Houseplant transplanting mats:

Often sold in a kit with small scissors and pruners, transplanting mats resemble a wipeable placemat with turned-up edges to contain the mess. It’s just as easy to transplant using newspapers, a box lid, or in the sink. And a pair of small scissors devoted to indoor plant grooming with work just as well.

Pebbles:

It’s been demonstrated that placing pebbles below the soil level does not promote drainage. In fact, a layer of pebbles tends to hold moisture within the pot. Instead, just ensure the container has drainage holes and empty any water collected in the cache pot under the container after watering.

Do buy

Here are items to consider purchasing.

Artificial lights:

Plants need light, but a cold windowsill is not the best spot for indoor tropical plants. Consider supplementing with one of the many options of fluorescent or LED lighting.

Fertilizer:

Choose a fertilizer that is designed for your specific type of houseplant. Fertilize regularly (about every two week) from March through September. Most indoor plants do not need fertilizer in winter because of lower light levels.

Watering can:

Of course, a watering can is needed, but look for one that holds at least a half-gallon with a long, narrow spout. Having a reservoir of water is a good idea since tap water should sit for at least several hours to allow chlorine to evaporate. The narrow spout will help direct water to the base of the plant.

Sticky traps:

Houseplants can be plagued with flying pests, such as fungus gnats, especially if they’ve spent the summer outside. Traps of small, yellow sticky paper placed right above the soil are inexpensive and effective to control these insect populations.

The next time a houseplant gadget catches your eye, ask yourself, will it really help maintain the health of the plant? If not, spend the money to buy more plants.

“Growing Green” is contributed by Diane Dorn, Lehigh County Extension Office Staff, and Master Gardeners. Information: Lehigh County Extension Office, 610-391-9840; Northampton County Extension Office, 610-813-6613.