Skip to Content

Raffaele Di Lallo

Hi everyone! My name is Raffaele, and thank you for visiting my site! I am the founder of Ohio Tropics, a site completely dedicated to houseplant and tropical plant care. Be sure to subscribe at the top of the screen (for free) with your email and stay up to date!

Houseplants That Humidify the Air: 50 Plants Evaluated

Did you know that plants can increase their own humidity? Plants naturally release water, and some are better at it than others. This post will look at the results of a NASA sftudy to look at which houseplants humidify the air the best! Do Plants Add Humidity to the Air? The short answer is…yes they …

Read More about Houseplants That Humidify the Air: 50 Plants Evaluated

1 Awful + 3 Great Ways to Increase Humidity for Houseplants

How to increase humidity for your houseplants has been a very misunderstood topic of debate among houseplant growers everywhere! Unless you are growing only cacti and succulents, it is important to understand the topic of humidity and the most effective ways on how to increase humidity for your houseplants. Let me first talk about the …

Read More about 1 Awful + 3 Great Ways to Increase Humidity for Houseplants

Plants That Grow in the Dark: 5 Great Choices For Dim Areas

Yes, you CAN grow houseplants with just artificial light and NO window!  Ok, well they can’t quite grow in the dark…but read on.  I have recommendations below and it is based off of past experience so I know it can be done, and it can be done successfully! Let’s get to choosing some office plants …

Read More about Plants That Grow in the Dark: 5 Great Choices For Dim Areas

Soil Moisture Meters for Indoor Plants: 3 Big Dangers

Should you be using a soil moisture meter for your houseplants? After so many people using these instruments came to me complaining about their plants dying, I wanted to give you my thoughts on using moisture meters for houseplants. I have 3 main reasons not to use soil moisture meters, and 3 things that you …

Read More about Soil Moisture Meters for Indoor Plants: 3 Big Dangers

Anthurium Clarinervium: 1 Secret to Growing Them

Anthurium clarinervium is a stunning foliage houseplant in the Aroid family and is sure to stop you in your tracks with its dark green, deeply lobed heart shaped leaves and contrasting white veins. I’ll tell you how I care for mine and also discuss Anthurium care in general. It’s a fascinating genus and one that …

Read More about Anthurium Clarinervium: 1 Secret to Growing Them

Pothos vs. Philodendron: 5 Easy Ways to Tell the Difference!

There are some very obvious, and some NOT so obvious ways to tell the difference between a Pothos and a Philodendron. Once you read these tips, you will never wonder about it again! There is one observation that I made that I have never seen anyone explain, so keep reading to find out what it …

Read More about Pothos vs. Philodendron: 5 Easy Ways to Tell the Difference!

6 Ways to Propagate String of Hearts – Chain of Hearts

Want to learn how to propagate String of Hearts? Here are 6 different ways that you can propagate this tough and versatile houseplant and make new plants! In addition, I also mention some tips on how to make String of Hearts fuller. The botanical name for this plant is Ceropegia woodii, but some common names …

Read More about 6 Ways to Propagate String of Hearts – Chain of Hearts

Alocasia Frydek – Vital Growing Tips and Common Problems

The stunning Alocasia micholitziana ‘Frydek’ is one of the many varieties of Elephant Ear. Commonly known as the Green Velvet Alocasia, few plants match the foliage of the Alocasia genus! Alocasia Frydek Care It is important to be very consistent with the care of these plants, especially if you have a smaller plant. Once the …

Read More about Alocasia Frydek – Vital Growing Tips and Common Problems

Dischidia Ovata Care: The Watermelon Dischidia

I’ve become absolutely obsessed with the Dischidia genus. Dischidia ovata, commonly known as Watermelon Dischidia, is no exception! These cousins of Hoyas are very easy to grow and offer an unusual touch to any houseplant collection. Although Dischidias are much less common than Hoyas, they are becoming more and more popular and more readily available. …

Read More about Dischidia Ovata Care: The Watermelon Dischidia