- How do you water Asclepias tuberosa correctly?
- When do you fertilize milkweed?
- Is Asclepias tuberosa pruned?
- What should be considered when repotting?
- What diseases and pests do you need to watch out for?
- How do you care for Asclepias tuberosa in winter?
Asclepias tuberosa or milkweed is an ornamental plant of which there are many different species. Since not all varieties are hardy, they are usually cultivated as a container plant or houseplant. This is how the proper care of the Asclepias tuberosa looks like as a houseplant.
The Asclepias tuberosa needs a lot of water during the growth phase
How do you water Asclepias tuberosa correctly?
During the growth phase from spring to late summer, water the Asclepias tuberosa plentifully without allowing waterlogging to occur. Do not leave water in the saucer or planter.
In winter, the amount of watering is significantly reduced. The plant substrate should not dry out completely.
When do you fertilize milkweed?
Fertilize the milkweed every 14 days during the growth phase with liquid fertilizer for flowering plants.
Is Asclepias tuberosa pruned?
Most varieties of Asclepias tuberosa tolerate pruning well. They are pruned for better branching and to prevent bare bottom.
To prolong the flowering period, cut off faded flowers immediately.
In spring, shorten the branches to 20 to 25 cm.
What should be considered when repotting?
Repot the Asclepias tuberosa in spring if the previous pot has become too small.
The milkweed is easy to divide in order to propagate. However, you will have to wait until after flowering to do this. In this case, repot the Asclepias tuberosa later.
What diseases and pests do you need to watch out for?
Diseases usually only develop if the root area is too wet. The roots can then rot.
Pests such as aphids and whiteflies are more common. Therefore, examine the plant regularly.
How do you care for Asclepias tuberosa in winter?
Many varieties of Asclepias tuberosa are not or only partially hardy. Varieties that are not hardy should not be cooler than ten degrees. When it gets colder, the leaves fall off.
Bring the pot into the house in good time, before the night-time temperatures drop too much. During the hibernation, the plants are only watered moderately and no longer fertilized.
Asclepias tuberosa kept outdoors should be covered with leaves or brushwood in autumn.
tips
The fruits of the Asclepias tuberosa are edible as long as they have not formed seeds. The plant itself belongs to the dogbane family and is therefore poisonous.