White Velvet plants, scientifically known as Gynura aurantiaca, are beautiful foliage plants that are easy to care for. Their soft, fuzzy leaves are a light green color on top and have a deep purple underside. However, sometimes these plants can start growing sideways instead of upright. This is a common problem among white velvet plant owners, but it’s not always easy to diagnose the cause.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why your white velvet plant might be growing sideways and what you can do to fix it.
One of the most common causes of a sideways-growing white velvet plant is inadequate sunlight. These plants need plenty of bright, indirect light to thrive. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, it may start to lean or grow in strange directions in an attempt to reach the sun.
To fix this issue, try moving your plant to a brighter location. A north-facing window is usually the best spot for a white velvet plant, as it provides bright, indirect light without exposing the plant to direct sunlight.
Another potential cause of a sideways-growing white velvet plant is imbalanced watering. These plants prefer consistently moist soil and don’t like to dry out completely between waterings. If you’re overwatering or underwatering your plant, it may start to lean or grow unevenly.
To fix this issue, make sure you’re watering your white velvet plant correctly. Water it thoroughly once a week or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Make sure the pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape and avoid letting your plant sit in standing water.
If your white velvet plant has been in the same pot for too long, it may become root-bound. This means that the roots have grown so large that they’re starting to push against the sides of the pot, which can cause the plant to grow sideways or even topple over.
To fix this issue, you’ll need to repot your white velvet plant into a larger container. Choose a pot that’s about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot and fill it with fresh potting soil. Gently remove the plant from its old pot and loosen the roots before placing it in the new pot.
Occasionally, a sideways-growing white velvet plant may be a sign of pests or disease. If you notice any unusual markings or discoloration on the leaves or stem, or if you see any insects on the plant, it’s possible that your plant is suffering from a pest infestation or disease.
To fix this issue, you’ll need to identify the problem and treat it accordingly. Common pests that affect white velvet plants include mealybugs and spider mites, while common diseases include root rot and powdery mildew. Consult with a plant expert, or do some research to determine the best course of action.
Q: Can I propagate my white velvet plant if it’s growing sideways?
A: Yes! Propagating your white velvet plant can be a great way to save it if it’s not doing well in its current state. Take cuttings from healthy parts of the plant and root them in water or soil to create new plants.
Q: How often should I fertilize my white velvet plant?
A: White velvet plants don’t need to be fertilized very often. You can fertilize them once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Q: How do I prevent my white velvet plant from growing sideways in the first place?
A: To prevent your white velvet plant from growing sideways, make sure it’s getting enough bright, indirect light and that you’re watering it properly. You should also repot it into a larger container every year or two to prevent it from becoming root-bound.