

For specimens that have a bare head, improve growing conditions by using this method and increasing the light levels and air circulation. Although watering from the top is best, it's recommended to use the bottom-up method if you're a messy waterer. More information about addressing root rot can be found on this link.Ī lack of leaves on the soil's face could be the product of excess moisture settling on the foliage. If the roots sport a yellow tinge, you're good to go, but if they're brown and mushy, action must be taken immediately. Take the plant out of the pot and inspect health below the compost line.

Symptoms include yellow or rotten leaves, mouldy soil, stunted growth and a rotten base resting against the soil. Root or leaf rot is a common issue among specimens sat in too dark environments with prolonged soil moisture. Although a 'Houseplant' fertiliser will still do the job, we'd recommend using a specific 'Cactus' labelled feed as it'll support the vital thirteen nutrients that this species will need to grow. Never situate it within a few metres of an operating radiator due to the enriched chance of crisping foliage.įertilise every four waters during the growing period before reducing this to every six in the autumn & winter. Finally, if you water your specimen from the top (over its foliage into the soil), be sure to blow the excess moisture from the leaves' cubbyholes to avert the risk of rotten foliage.Īverage room humidity is more than enough to satisfy this plant. Never allow a Devil's Backbone to endure long periods of soggy soil or a dark location as both will significantly increase the chance of over-watering and death.

Over-watering symptoms, on the other hand, include yellowing lower leaves, little to no growth and a rotting stem or leaves. Dehydration is the number one issue among growers, so always keep an eye out for drying soil. These issues are commonly down to either too much heat/light forgetfulness. It's always better to under-water Devil's Backbones than over-do it, so if you're unsure as to when it needs a drink, leave it for another few days! Under-watering symptoms include crispy/curling leaves, a grey, washed-out appearance, yellowing leaves and a lack of new growth. To confirm that your specimen needs a water, feel the weight of the pot and if it still feels heavy, allow the pot to become slightly lighter before another hydration. Those kept in the traditional pots must have the soil's top half to dry in between waters. Bright, indirect location is still advised however, you must keep on the drier side to avoid over-watering from its moisture-retentive leaves. We'd recommend a windowsill, or a nearby table is the perfect location for this plant, as a lack of natural light penetrating the compost's face may result in root rot and soil mould.

Specimens kept on a shelf where the soil line isn't in view of the natural light must follow the rule of 'near-drenches between droughts'. Ī minimal amount of morning or evening sunlight is fantastic for Devil's Backbones. Pests aren't usually an issue however, keep an eye out for Mealybugs & Scale.Devil's Backbones won't need frequent repotting, so once every three years is best to avoid transplant shock.Fertilise using a 'Houseplant' or 'Cactus' labelled feed every four waters in the spring and summer, reducing this to every six in the colder months.A good level of humidity and air circulation is crucial for a long-lasting specimen.Allow the soil's top half to dry in between waters, reducing this slightly further in the autumn and winter.Provide a bright location with a splash of either morning or evening sunlight for quality growth.Need the answer to a specific plant query? Book a 1-to-1 video call with Joe Bagley, the website's friendly author, to overcome and address your niggling problem! Available on iMessage, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger & more. Origins, Temperature, Propagation, Repotting & Toxicity.Location, Water, Humidity & Fertilisation.Euphorbia tithymaloides 'Variegatus' - Formally known as ' Pedilanthus tithymaloides'.
