Tropical wick plant, also known as Epipremnum aureum or Devil’s Ivy, is a popular indoor plant that can also be grown outdoors in warm climates. It’s a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care and can add a touch of greenery to your outdoor living space. In this article, we’ll discuss the steps you need to take to grow tropical wick plant outdoors.
Choosing the right location for your tropical wick plant is crucial for its growth and health. It needs a warm and humid environment, so it’s best to choose a spot that receives bright but indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to turn yellow.
The ideal temperature range for tropical wick plants is between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, it can damage the plant. Make sure to choose a location that’s protected from cold drafts or frost.
Tropical wick plants prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. You can use a potting mix that contains perlite, vermiculite, or sand to improve drainage. Avoid using heavy clay soils as they can retain too much moisture and cause root rot.
Before planting your tropical wick plant outdoors, loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller. Mix in some compost or organic fertilizer to provide nutrients to the plant.
To plant your tropical wick plant outdoors, dig a hole that’s slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots if they’re tightly packed.
Place the root ball in the hole and backfill with soil until it’s level with the surrounding soil. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Tropical wick plants prefer consistently moist soil, but they don’t like to be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry. Make sure to check the moisture level of the soil before watering to avoid overwatering.
You can fertilize your tropical wick plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid overfertilizing as it can cause salt buildup in the soil.
Pruning your tropical wick plant can encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. You can pinch off the tips of the stems or cut back any overgrown vines.
Tropical wick plants are easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Simply cut a stem that’s at least 4 inches long and has a few leaves attached. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in water or moist potting mix until roots develop.
Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or too much direct sunlight. Make sure to check the moisture level of the soil before watering and move the plant to a spot with indirect sunlight.
Brown tips can be caused by too much fertilizer or low humidity. Reduce the amount of fertilizer you’re using and mist the leaves regularly to increase humidity.
Tropical wick plants are prone to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
A: Yes, tropical wick plants make great indoor plants as they’re low-maintenance and can tolerate low light conditions.
A: You can fertilize your tropical wick plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
A: Tropical wick plants are best grown in warm and humid climates. If you live in a cold climate, you can grow them indoors or in a greenhouse.
In conclusion, growing tropical wick plants outdoors is easy as long as you choose the right location, prepare the soil, and provide adequate water and nutrients. With a little care and attention, your tropical wick plant can thrive and add beauty to your outdoor space.