Growing plants in the Southwest is different then other climates. We learn how to grow plants in water. Salt is a factor that we need to be cautious of. Salt is in soil and in water. Water, once absorbed leaves a layer of salt. It can be avoided by watering in a certain way. Changing the water frequently, a dish underneath a potted plant to drain the water and flushing out the salt and re-potting periodically. Sometimes extremes measures must be taken to hydrate a plant. In this case putting a shallow dish of water underneath the potted plant will work to absorb the water and moisten the soil. Soil always needs to be moist when applying fertilizer. The soil will hold the fertilizer better when its moist. Fertilizer gives the proper minerals and nutrients a house plant needs.