The charming artillery plant, also known as Pilea microphylla, is a popular and relatively easy-going houseplant. Its tiny pea-shaped leaves sprouting from trailing stems give it a uniquely elegant look But even low-maintenance artillery plants need a little TLC now and then to keep them thriving
Repotting is an essential task that provides fresh soil and room to grow Follow this step-by-step guide to smoothly repot your artillery plant and set it up for success
When to Repot an Artillery Plant
Artillery plants typically need repotting every 2-3 years The best time is during late spring or summer when the plant is actively growing Avoid repotting in fall or winter when growth slows,
Watch for these signs it’s time for new digs:
- Roots visible through drainage holes
- Root-bound with circling roots
- Soil drying out very quickly
- Stunted growth
Acting before roots get severely tangled improves recovery. Timely repotting prevents decline.
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
Good drainage is key for artillery plant roots. Use a commercial cactus/succulent mix or make your own blend:
- 2 parts potting soil
- 1 part perlite or pumice
- 1 part orchid bark
Avoid regular potting soil alone as it stays too wet.
Step-by-Step Repotting Instructions
With the right potting mix and new container ready, follow these steps:
1. Water the Plant
Water thoroughly a day before repotting. This makes removal easier.
2. Remove from Current Pot
Gently remove the plant from its pot. Loosening the roots first helps prevent damage.
3. Inspect Roots
Check for any diseased or circling roots. Trim off damaged sections with sterilized shears.
4. Choose New Pot
Pick a container 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Allow for growth but prevent excess soil.
5. Add Potting Mix
Fill the bottom with mix. Position the plant and fill in around the root ball.
6. Settle Soil
Gently firm the soil to anchor the plant. Leave 1⁄2 inch below the rim for watering.
7. Water Well
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. This settles the soil. Let excess drain away.
Artillery Plant Repotting Aftercare
Help your plant recover with proper aftercare:
- Place in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun.
- Water sparingly at first. Let soil partly dry out between waterings.
- Hold off fertilizing for 2-3 weeks until established.
- Monitor for signs of transplant shock like drooping.
- Adjust water and light as needed.
With attentive aftercare, your artillery plant will quickly bounce back more vigorous than ever! Repotting provides the fresh start this charming plant needs to continue thriving indoors.
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 .
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.
Up close with Artillery Plants
FAQ
What kind of soil do artillery plants like?
Can you propagate an Artillery Plant?
How often should I water an artillery fern?
How often should you repot an artillery plant?
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its current container. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to prevent excess soil moisture, which can lead to root rot. Propagating the Artillery Plant is straightforward and can be an enjoyable way to expand your collection or share with friends.
How do you care for an artillery plant?
The Artillery Plant is generally easy to care for, but like all plants, it can encounter pests, diseases, and common problems. Spider Mites: These tiny pests can be identified by the fine webs they weave on the plant. They cause yellowing or speckled leaves. Increase humidity around the plant and wash it with a strong stream of water.
What is an artillery plant?
It’s also known for the explosive pollen discharge from its minuscule flowers, earning it the nickname “Artillery Plant.” Native: This plant is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, where it thrives in warm, humid conditions. It belongs to the nettle family (Urticaceae) and is part of a diverse genus with over 600 species.
Where do artillery plants grow?
The artillery species is native to the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, and the southeastern United States. In its native habitat, it is a somewhat weedy, spreading ground cover that commonly sprouts between rocks and in lawns, in margins between land and water, and in masonry crevices.