Wandering Jew Plant Harvesting: Optimal Time and Technique

Wandering Jew plant is popularly known for its beautiful foliage, which makes it a perfect houseplant. The plant has long, trailing stems with purple and green leaves that add a pop of color to any room. Apart from its aesthetic value, the Wandering Jew plant is also known for its medicinal properties. The plant is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that make it an effective remedy for various health conditions. Therefore, it’s not surprising that more people are becoming interested in harvesting the Wandering Jew plant. However, most people don’t know the optimal time and technique for harvesting this plant.

Optimal Time for Harvesting Wandering Jew Plant

Harvesting the Wandering Jew plant at the right time is crucial if you want to get the best results. Experts recommend harvesting the plant during the spring and summer months when it’s actively growing. During this period, the plant produces new leaves, making it an ideal time to harvest.

It’s important to note that you should avoid harvesting the Wandering Jew plant during the winter season when it’s dormant. Harvesting during this period can cause damage to the plant, which can affect its growth and health.

Techniques for Harvesting Wandering Jew Plant

When it comes to harvesting the Wandering Jew plant, there are two main techniques that you can use – stem cuttings and division.

Stem Cuttings

Stem cuttings involve cutting a piece of stem from the mother plant and planting it in a new pot. This technique is ideal if you want to propagate the plant or if you want to create more plants from one mother plant.

To harvest a stem cutting from the Wandering Jew plant, follow these steps:

1. Identify a healthy stem on the mother plant that has at least two nodes (the point where leaves are attached to the stem).
2. Cut the stem using a clean, sharp knife just below the node.
3. Remove the leaves from the bottom third of the stem.
4. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone (optional).
5. Plant the stem cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil.
6. Water the plant and place it in a bright, indirect light.

Division

Division involves separating the mother plant into smaller plants. This technique is ideal if you want to rejuvenate an old plant or if you want to create multiple plants from one mother plant.

To divide the Wandering Jew plant, follow these steps:

1. Remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off the soil.
2. Use a clean, sharp knife to separate the roots into smaller sections.
3. Plant each section in a pot filled with well-draining soil.
4. Water the plants and place them in a bright, indirect light.

FAQ

Q: Can I harvest the Wandering Jew plant during winter?

A: No, you should avoid harvesting the Wandering Jew plant during winter when it’s dormant.

Q: Can I use stem cuttings to propagate my Wandering Jew plant?

A: Yes, stem cuttings are an effective way to propagate the Wandering Jew plant.

Q: How often should I water my Wandering Jew plant after harvesting?

A: You should water your Wandering Jew plant immediately after harvesting and then wait for the soil to dry out before watering again.

Q: Can I use any soil for planting my Wandering Jew plant after harvesting?

A: No, you should use well-draining soil that’s suitable for indoor plants.

Q: Do I need to use rooting hormone when taking stem cuttings?

A: No, rooting hormone is optional but can help speed up the rooting process.