The tussock plant is a fantastic sight for any home with its bright orange flowers. Here are the details on indoor goldfish plant care!
The Clog Plant is adorned with bright red-orange flowers that resemble jumping goldfish. Best kept in a hanging basket or pot so that the plant spills out from all sides, giving a great show! Lives long when given proper care and thrives in normal home conditions. Here’s everything about indoor goldfish plant care!
Propagation of goldfish plants
The best way to propagate a goldfish plant is by stem cuttings:
- Use sharp scissors and cut off a 3-5 inch stem without flowers.
- Dip the tip in a rooting hormone.
- Place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix.
- Water well and keep the pot where it gets bright, indirect light.
Nematanthus native habitat
Botanical name: Nematanthus gregarius
Other names: Guppy Plant, Column Flower, Candy Corn Plant, Clog Plant
To grow this plant well, you should understand the origin of this exotic plant – it grows in South America, particularly in the rainforests of Brazil. It is epiphytic in nature and grows in the canopy of trees. Its cultivation is somewhat similar to that of indoor plants such as the Christmas cactus.
Growing Requirements of Goldfish Plants
Light
An east-facing window or spot with mild morning sunlight is ideal for the plant as it will help it grow well and produce lots of flowers! Make sure it gets 2-4 hours of mild direct sunlight or bright indirect light during the day. Avoid keeping the plant in the sun!
Terrain
You can use any soil mix, but it should be loamy and drain well. This will reduce the risk of root rot and other diseases. Avoid using compact garden soil.
Water
For a plant like this, you should water it regularly to keep the soil slightly moist. However, don’t water too often or too much to avoid over watering. Check the topsoil with your fingers and water when it feels a little dry to the touch.
Temperature and Humidity
Many people think that tropical plants need warmth. However, in forests these plants are shaded by the tree. Therefore, the temperature is much lower than expected!
They need a temperature of 60-80 F (15-28 C) and a moist environment. Use a humidifier or plant mist every now and then to keep humidity levels around the plant constant. Always use room temperature water to mist as cold water can shock the plants.
Caring for indoor goldfish plants
Fertilization
Use a balanced or water-soluble fertilizer with a high phosphate content, diluted to 1/4 strength, once every 3-5 weeks. You can also mist the foliage with a solution of one-half teaspoon of balanced water-soluble fertilizer to one gallon of water once a month during the growing season.
Transplantation
The plant prefers to be slightly root-bound, so repot it once every 2-3 years. When transplanting, be sure to remove damaged roots. Also, rememberr yes choose a pot size that is only one size larger than the previous one.
Pests and Diseases
These plants are very sensitive botrytis moldleaf spots from fungi and mosaic viruses. Aphids, spider mites and pillow scales are very common among these species. A regular check on the leaves and stems is essential. If there is an infestation, use Neem or Tree tea oil swabs around the leaves and stems.
Does a goldfish plant bloom?
Yes! The plant is quite famous for its bright red and orange flowers that develop in spring and summer, contrasting beautifully with its dark green foliage. The flowers look like jumping goldfish, hence the name!
How to make a goldfish plant bloom?
The best way to encourage the plant to have more blooms is to place it in a location that gets bright light. Keeping it near an east-facing windowwhere he can bathe in the direct morning sun for 3-4 hours, will be a great idea.
It promotes flowering while preventing the plant from becoming leggy, and if it does, the best way to revive growth is to prune its leading edges!
Is goldfish plant toxic to cats and dogs?
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the plant is completely safe for dogs and cats. You can keep it in your home without worrying about your pets.
