Here comes the leadwort: A tropical, sun-loving, fast-growing, long-flowering plant suitable for growing as a climber. What care is needed to keep them happy for many years?

Leadwort needs a lot of water

Does the leadwort need regular watering and does it tolerate lime water?

Its lush growth coupled with its multitude of evergreen leaves requires regular watering. Water your leadwort when the top layer of its soil has dried out. The substrate should be kept moderately dry to slightly moist. Only such an environment ensures the formation of many flowers.

However, waterlogging should be avoided, because this does not get the leadwort at all. Also, be careful not to wet the leaves with water, but only water the root area. Lime-free or low-lime water should preferably be used.

What must be considered when fertilizing?

In its main growing season between April and September, leadwort needs plenty of nutrients. Fertilize with liquid fertilizer every 1 to 2 weeks. A potassium-rich fertilizer would be ideal.

Which place is suitable for wintering?

Since this tropical plant is not hardy, it should be overwintered:

  • either: bright, cool (about 8 °C) winter quarters
  • or: dark, frost-free winter quarters
  • pour little
  • do not fertilize

Are there specific diseases and pests that can be dangerous?

Houseplants are often attacked by pests and so is leadwort, especially in winter. Aphids often appear, but spider mites can also weaken it. The most notable disease is gray mold.

How and when are the shoots cut?

It is not uncommon for leadwort to grow rampant. It grows very quickly when it is in the right place. Therefore, a regular pruning is more than appropriate. Before winter and, if necessary, also in spring, it should be cut down by half or to a height of 15 to 20 cm.

Observe the following points when cutting:

  • blooms on new wood
  • remove weak, diseased and too old shoots
  • in summer, thin out if necessary
  • Cutting off seed heads will encourage re-flowering

tips

If you decide to hibernate in the dark, you should lighten the poisonous leadwort again from February.

Category:

Herbs