Tradescantia Pink Panther 4”

Light:

• Tradescantia prefers bright, indirect light. This helps maintain the vibrancy of its colorful leaves.

• It can tolerate some direct sunlight but avoid harsh midday sun, as this can burn the foliage.

• In lower light, the plant may become leggy, and the colors can fade.

Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

• Tradescantia can be prone to root rot if overwatered, so ensure good drainage.

• In winter, reduce the frequency of watering, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.

Soil:

• Use a well-draining potting mix. A standard houseplant mix works fine, or you can mix it with perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Temperature:

• Tradescantia prefers temperatures between 60-80°F 

• Protect it from cold drafts and avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F 

Humidity:

• This plant enjoys moderate to high humidity.

• If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider misting the plant or placing it near a humidifier.

• A pebble tray filled with water can also help increase humidity around the plant.

Fertilizing:

• Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).

• Fertilizing isn’t necessary in winter when the plant’s growth slows.

Pruning and Maintenance:

• Tradescantia can become leggy over time, so pinch back the stems regularly to encourage bushier growth.

• Trim any yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy.

Propagation:

• Tradescantia is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem just below a node and place it in water or directly into moist soil. New roots will develop within a few weeks.

• Regular propagation can help keep the plant full and lush.

 Repotting:

• Tradescantia grows quickly and may need to be repotted every 1-2 years when it outgrows its pot. Use fresh soil and a slightly larger pot.

Pests:

• Tradescantia can sometimes be affected by pests like spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.