Blog
Plant care, aquascaping, photography and studio notes from Coletivate in Denver, Colorado.
How to Start an Isopod Colony
A simple, step by step guide to setting up your first isopod colony: the container, substrate mix, moisture gradient, food, and how many isopods to begin with.
How to Set Up a Bioactive Terrarium
Build a self-cleaning bioactive terrarium: layers, drainage, substrate, plants, and the springtail and isopod clean-up crew, with step by step instructions.
What Do Isopods Eat? A Complete Feeding Guide
Isopods eat decaying leaves and wood, plus vegetables, protein, and calcium. Learn what to feed, what to avoid, and how often, to keep a colony healthy.
The Best Isopods for Bioactive Terrariums
Compare popular clean-up crew isopods, including dwarf whites, dwarf purples, and powder blues, and learn how to match a species to your terrarium.
How to Fertilize Houseplants: When, How Much, and What to Use
Fertilizer is food for growing plants, not a cure-all. Learn when to feed houseplants, how much to use, what the numbers mean, and the signs of overfeeding.
What Is Bright Indirect Light? A Simple Guide for Houseplants
Bright, indirect light is the most common plant care term and the most confusing. Learn what it means, how to measure it, and how to place plants near windows.
What Are Springtails, and Do You Need Them?
Springtails are tiny soil animals that eat mold and help keep terrariums clean. Learn what they do, whether you need them, and how to add and culture them.
How to Get Rid of Spider Mites on Houseplants
Spot spider mites early and get rid of them: how to identify the damage, isolate plants, rinse, treat with soap or oil, and repeat to break their life cycle.
How Often to Water Houseplants (and How to Know When)
There is no perfect watering schedule. Learn how to check soil moisture, what changes how fast plants dry out, and how to water so roots stay healthy.