Urn plant, also known as Aechmea fasciata, is a popular houseplant due to its striking appearance and ease of care. The plant features long, slender leaves that grow in a rosette formation, which encircle a central flower spike. The colorful bracts at the tip of the spike give the plant its unique look, with pink or purple hues.
While urn plants are native to Brazil, they can be grown indoors in pots for year-round enjoyment. Here is a guide to growing urn plant in a pot.
When choosing a pot for urn plant, it is important to select one that is the appropriate size. A pot that is too small will restrict the plant’s growth and potentially cause it to become root-bound. On the other hand, a pot that is too large can lead to overwatering and soil saturation.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that is about one-third larger than the plant’s root ball. Additionally, make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent standing water.
Urn plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good option is a mixture of peat moss, perlite or sand, and compost. This will provide adequate drainage while also retaining moisture.
It is important to avoid using heavy soils such as garden soil, as these can hold too much water and suffocate the roots.
Urn plants thrive in bright, indirect light. They should be placed near a window that receives ample sunlight but not direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and damage the plant.
If you notice that your urn plant’s leaves are turning brown or developing spots, it may be getting too much direct sunlight. Move it to a shadier location or provide some shade using a sheer curtain.
Urn plants prefer to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot.
Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Additionally, do not allow the soil to dry out completely, as this can cause the leaves to wilt and become damaged.
Urn plants benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks or according to package instructions. Be sure to dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning the roots.
During the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce fertilization to once a month or stop altogether.
Urn plants do not require extensive pruning. However, if you notice any dead or damaged leaves, remove them with a clean pair of scissors or pruning shears. This will prevent the spread of disease and promote healthy growth.
Additionally, if the central flower spike has finished blooming, you can cut it back to encourage new growth.
A: Urn plants prefer to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot.
A: Urn plants are native to Brazil and thrive in warm, humid climates. They can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-12. However, if you live in a cooler climate, it is best to grow them indoors in a pot.
A: Urn plants benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks or according to package instructions. Be sure to dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning the roots.
During the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce fertilization to once a month or stop altogether.
A: Urn plants can be propagated by removing the offsets, or “pups,” that grow from the base of the plant. Carefully separate the pup from the mother plant and plant it in a separate pot with fresh soil. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the pup has established roots.