Selling size: This plant comes in a 2.5" Square pot
The Wandering Jew Plant, also known as the Tradescantia! They're such vibrant and easy-to-love plants.
To keep yours thriving, here's a rundown of Wandering Jew Plant care needs:
Light:
They absolutely love bright, indirect sunlight. Think of a spot near an east- or west-facing window where the light is filtered.
Too little light, and you'll notice the vibrant colors fading, and the stems might become leggy as they reach for more light.
Direct, intense sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves, so be mindful of that, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Water:
Water them when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. They enjoy consistent moisture but don't like to sit in soggy soil, which can lead to root rot.
During the active growing season (spring and summer), you might find yourself watering more frequently.
In the fall and winter, when their growth slows down, you can reduce the watering frequency.
Soil:
A well-draining potting mix is ideal. A general-purpose mix amended with a bit of perlite or sand works perfectly to ensure good drainage.
Temperature and Humidity:
They're quite adaptable when it comes to temperature, but they generally prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid exposing them to extreme cold or drafts.
Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (making sure the bottom of the pot isn't sitting directly in the water).
Using a humidifier.
Misting them occasionally with room-temperature water.Wandering Jews appreciate moderate to high humidity. If your home has dry air, especially during winter with indoor heating, you can increase humidity by:
Fertilizing:
During the spring and summer growing season, feed your Wandering Jew every 2-4 weeks with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.
Hold off on fertilizing during the fall and winter when their growth naturally slows down.
Pruning:
Regular pruning is your friend! It encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming too leggy. Don't be afraid to snip off long trails – you can even propagate these cuttings!
Pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage branching.
Propagation:
Wandering Jews are incredibly easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Simply snip off a healthy stem (with a few leaf nodes), remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or directly into moist potting soil. They root very quickly!
Common Issues:
Leggy growth and faded colors: Usually a sign of insufficient light.
Yellowing or mushy leaves: Often indicates overwatering and potential root rot.
Brown, crispy leaf edges: Could be due to underwatering or low humidity.
Pests: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Treat promptly if you notice any.
With a little attention to these needs, your Wandering Jew Plant will reward you with its beautiful trailing foliage and vibrant colors. Enjoy your plant! Let me know if you have any other questions.
