Wandering Dude plant, also known as Tradescantia zebrina or inch plant, is a popular houseplant known for its vibrant green leaves with purple undersides. This plant is easy to care for and grows relatively quickly. However, like any other plant, it goes through several stages of growth before it reaches maturity. In this article, we will discuss the different stages of growth that the Wandering Dude plant goes through.
The first stage of growth for the Wandering Dude plant is germination. This stage starts when you plant the seeds or propagate a cutting from another plant. During this stage, the plant will start to develop roots and begin to grow above the soil. The germination process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on the conditions.
To help with germination, keep the soil moist and warm. You can cover the pot with plastic wrap or a propagation dome to create a humid environment that will encourage root growth.
Once the Wandering Dude plant has developed roots and started growing above the soil, it enters the seedling stage. During this stage, the plant will continue to grow its leaves and stem. The leaves will be small, and the stem will be thin and fragile.
To help with seedling growth, make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. You can also use a diluted fertilizer to provide nutrients for the young plant.
The juvenile stage is when the Wandering Dude plant starts to grow more rapidly. The stem thickens, and the leaves become larger and more vibrant in color. This stage usually lasts for several months, and during this time, you may need to repot your plant to give it more room to grow.
Make sure to provide adequate light for your Wandering Dude plant during this stage. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
The final stage of growth for the Wandering Dude plant is maturity. This stage is reached when the plant has reached its full size and has stopped growing. The leaves will be large and vibrant in color, and the stem will be thick and sturdy.
To help your Wandering Dude plant reach maturity, make sure to provide it with adequate nutrients and light. You can also prune your plant to encourage bushier growth.
Wandering Dude plants prefer moist soil, but they do not like to sit in water. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Yes, you should fertilize your Wandering Dude plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a diluted fertilizer to avoid burning the roots.
Wandering Dude plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Place your plant near a north or east-facing window for best results.
Yes, you can propagate your Wandering Dude plant by taking cuttings from the stem and placing them in water or soil. Make sure to keep the soil or water moist until the roots develop.