How to Tell if Twisted Lipstick Plant Needs Watering?

Twisted lipstick plant, also known as Aeschynanthus radicans, is a beautiful houseplant that belongs to the Gesneriaceae family. It is a tropical plant that is native to Southeast Asia and is characterized by its long, trailing stems covered with glossy, green leaves and bright red or orange tubular flowers. To keep your twisted lipstick plant healthy and flourishing, it is important to pay attention to its watering needs. In this article, we will discuss how to tell if your twisted lipstick plant needs watering.

Signs of Underwatering

Underwatering is a common problem with twisted lipstick plants. When a twisted lipstick plant is underwatered, it can cause the leaves to wilt, curl up or turn brown. Here are some signs that your plant is underwatered:

• Wilting: If the leaves of your twisted lipstick plant are wilting or drooping, it may be a sign that the plant needs water. When the soil becomes too dry, the plant tries to conserve water by wilting its leaves.
• Curling: If the edges of the leaves are curling upwards, it may indicate that the plant is not getting enough water. The curled leaves are a sign that the plant is trying to reduce its surface area so that it loses less water through transpiration.
• Brown Leaves: If the foliage of your twisted lipstick plant turns brown and crispy along the edges or tips, it indicates that the plant has been underwatered for an extended period.

Signs of Overwatering

Overwatering can also be detrimental to twisted lipstick plants. When a twisted lipstick plant is overwatered, it can lead to root rot and cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown. Here are some signs that your twisted lipstick plant has been overwatered:

• Yellow Leaves: If the leaves of your twisted lipstick plant are turning yellow, it may be a sign of overwatering. When the roots of the plant are constantly in water, they can’t absorb oxygen correctly, resulting in root rot.
• Brown Leaves: Brown leaves are a sign of both underwatering and overwatering. If the soil is kept too wet for too long, it can cause the leaves to turn brown.
• Mushy Roots: Check the roots of your twisted lipstick plant. If they are soft, mushy, and have a foul smell, it means that the plant has been overwatered, and root rot has set in.

How to Water Twisted Lipstick Plant

Watering your twisted lipstick plant correctly is essential to keep it healthy and thriving. Here are some tips on how to water your plant:

• Check the Soil: Before watering your twisted lipstick plant, check the soil’s moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil up to an inch deep. If it feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water the plant.
• Water Thoroughly: When watering your twisted lipstick plant, water thoroughly until water starts to drain from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system gets enough water.
• Don’t Let it Sit in Water: Make sure that your twisted lipstick plant is not sitting in water for an extended period. Empty any excess water from the saucer or tray beneath the pot after watering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water my twisted lipstick plant?

The frequency of watering depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, and soil type. In general, you should water your twisted lipstick plant once a week during the growing season and reduce it to once every two weeks in winter.

Can I use tap water to water my twisted lipstick plant?

Twisted lipstick plants prefer slightly acidic soil; tap water can be alkaline and contain impurities that can harm your plant. It’s best to use distilled or rainwater to water your twisted lipstick plant.

Can I mist my twisted lipstick plant?

Yes, you can mist your twisted lipstick plant occasionally. It helps to increase the humidity around the plant, which it prefers. However, don’t mist the flowers directly as they may become waterlogged and fall off.

Should I fertilize my twisted lipstick plant?

Yes, you should fertilize your twisted lipstick plant during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Conclusion

Twisted lipstick plants are beautiful houseplants that require proper watering to thrive. By paying attention to the signs of underwatering and overwatering and following the tips mentioned above, you can keep your plant healthy and flourishing.