Jiaogulan is undoubtedly a pretty climber. But the reason for their cultivation is different. The ingredients dormant in it are considered healthy and rejuvenating, as we know it from hardly any other plant. So it's good if it grows on your doorstep. Below we explain how to look after the newcomer from Asia.

The immortality herb needs a trellis

Offer a good location with a climbing aid

The right location is worth almost more than good care at Jiaogulan. You can choose whether to plant the plant out or cultivate it purely as a houseplant. Both are equally good. It is also possible to switch between outdoor and room stays.

Plant jiaogulan outdoors in the shade of other plants, as full sun is not well tolerated. If the Immortality Herb is growing like crazy, you made the right choice. A standstill in growth, on the other hand, prompts a change of location.

In the house, a bathroom with a window would be the ideal location, because warmth and moisture are exactly what the plant likes. The fine, long tendrils can grow from a hanging basket. Otherwise, the plant needs a climbing aid from the start, both indoors and outdoors.

Pouring with finesse

Not too wet, not too dry, instead the substrate of pot specimens should always be slightly moist. In the open air, the regulation of the water balance usually works well on its own. Even short periods of drought are tolerated. Only water there if the soil threatens to dry out too much.

Avoid artificial fertilizers, fertilize naturally

The nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus are particularly important for vigorous growth. However, before you reach for an artificial fertilizer package in stores, realize that the ingredients absorbed by the roots will end up in the leaves and consequently in the jiaogulan tea. Overdosing is also easily possible with such a fertilizer.

Compost, horn shavings (€32.93) or the finer horn meal are good and, above all, consistent suppliers of nutrients during the growing season. A small portion every three weeks should be enough for vital growth in the bed. Fertilize potted plants with an organic liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growth phase.

When to use the scissors

Although the immortality herb grows luxuriantly, no scissors are needed to ensure a neat shape. But even this plant cannot avoid letting them cling to their tendrils. Jiaogulan is hardy when planted out, but above-ground shoots die off in the cold. Only the rhizome of the plant overwinters.

  • leave dead shoots on the plant
  • they protect the rhizome from the cold
  • only cut in the spring before the new shoots
  • Healthy shoots can be harvested all year round
  • in the spring cuttings can be cut
  • with them the plant can be propagated

tips

Prune an outdoor plant in the fall before the shoots have wilted. The leaves of the Jiaogulan can be dried well. So you have the healthy herb available even in winter.

Overwintering support

A houseplant is not exposed to the threatening frost. There is therefore no need for action on her part. A tub specimen that is outdoors should be brought to a frost-free and, if possible, bright winter quarters for the winter. In a dark quarter, the plant should be cut back hand-high.

Immortality herb that has been planted out may be covered with leaves or brushwood despite good winter hardiness. This increases the rhizome's chances of survival.

Category:

Vegetable garden