Choosing the Right Pot
Pick a pot that is one size larger than the plant’s root ball with ample drainage holes. Artillery plants have shallow root systems and prefer wider, shallower pots over deep, narrow ones. A 6-8 inch pot works well for an immature plant while larger varieties may need 10-12 inch pots. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
The Perfect Potting Mix
Use a loose, well-aerated potting mix for artillery plants. A quality all-purpose or indoor plant blend amended with perlite, vermiculite or bark works great. You can also make your own mix with equal parts peat moss, compost and perlite Good drainage is key – wet, dense soil will cause root rot.
Ideal Light Conditions
Artillery plants grow best in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning or afternoon sun. A sheer curtain can filter harsh midday light. Avoid direct southern exposure, as too much intense sunlight will scorch the leaves. If light is too low, the plant may become leggy and stunted.
Watering Needs
Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings, then soak thoroughly until water drains from the drainage holes. This encourages deeper roots. Bottom-watering is helpful to prevent wet leaves. The frequency depends on light, humidity and temperature, but a thorough watering about once a week is typical.
What Temperature is Best?
Artillery plants prefer average room temperatures between 65-80°F. Avoid drafty areas as they dislike cold or sudden temperature drops. Cooler temperatures below 60°F can make plants prone to fungal issues. If your home gets very warm, move the plant to the coolest spot and monitor soil moisture closely.
Humidity Requirements
This tropical plant thrives in average to high humidity levels of 50-60% or more. Use a humidifier nearby or place the pot on a pebble tray with water to increase moisture around the plant. Mist the leaves occasionally if the air is very dry. Low humidity causes leaf tip browning.
Fertilizer Needs
During spring and summer, feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks. Cease fertilizing over winter when growth slows. If using a time-release fertilizer, simply repot with fresh mix amended with the fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing which can burn roots.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pinch back leggy stems to encourage bushy growth. Clear away any dead or damaged leaves and blossoms. Wipe leaves periodically with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free. Repot annually in the spring when roots fill out the container. Turn the pot periodically to ensure even light exposure.
Propagating Artillery Plants
Take 3-5 inch stem tip cuttings in spring, trimming just below a leaf node. Remove lower leaves and place the cutting in water or moist potting mix. Keep it warm and humid until new roots establish in a few weeks. Then transplant into a pot with fresh potting mix. Mature plants can also be divided at the roots in early spring.
Common Problems and Solutions
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Drooping leaves – Underwatering is occurring. Increase water frequency.
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Yellow leaves – Overwatering or poor drainage; improve conditions.
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Leggy growth – Needs more sunlight.
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Leaf drop – Cool temps, drought stress, or overwatering.
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Leaf spots – Increase air circulation and treat fungal disease.
With the right care, artillery plants make excellent indoor container specimens. Their petite size, easy propagation and unique flowering habits make them fun and fulfilling houseplants for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
How to fertilize artillery plant
Most potting soils come with ample nutrients which plants use to produce new growth.
By the time your plant has depleted the nutrients in its soil it’s likely grown enough to need a larger pot anyway.
To replenish this plants nutrients, repot your artillery plant after it doubles in size or once a year—whichever comes first.
artillery plant prefers for the soil to dry out between waterings and should be watered regularly. Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.
artillery plant may have difficulty thriving and will drop leaves without ample sunlight. Place it less than 3 feet from a window to maximize the potential for growth. Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement in your home .
Greg does not have confirmed data on this plant’s toxicity. If you, a family member, or a pet consumes plant material of unknown toxicity, it’s always best to consult a medical professional.
If you or someone else ingested this plant, call Poison Control at US (800) 222-1222. If a pet consumed this plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA at US (888) 426-4435.
artillery plant doesn’t require additional humidity. Plants absorb most water through their root system rather than their leaves, so the best way to provide humidity for your plants is through watering the soil.
artillery plant does best in well-draining soil. A good soil will contain lots of organic matter such as coco coir as well as perlite or vermiculite to help with drainage. Adding a handful of perlite to regular store-bought potting soil should do the trick!
artillery plant should be repotted after it doubles in size or once a year, whichever comes first. Fresh potting soil has all the nutrients your plant needs, so as long as it’s refreshed yearly, you shouldn’t need to use fertilizer. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not fertilizer!
It’s common for artillery plant to go dormant in the wintertime and you may notice their growth slow down. Waterings should be spaced out more during this time.
artillery plant is native to Worldwide.
When troubleshooting a sad-looking houseplant, start by checking for signs of distress in its leaves, such as yellowing, browning, or drooping, which can indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies.
Inspect the soil moisture; too dry or too wet soil can cause problems.
Ensure the plant is getting the right amount of light, as too much or too little can stress it.
Finally, consider environmental factors like temperature and humidity, and adjust care routines accordingly to revive your plant.
Finding light for artillery plant in your home
artillery plant may have difficulty thriving, and will drop leaves , without ample sunlight.
Place it less than 3 feet from a south-facing window to maximize the potential for growth.
Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement of artillery plant in your home .
Pilea Microphylla Artillery plant care & Tips.
FAQ
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