I thrive in bright, indirect light. Imagine the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy of taller trees; that is my ideal condition. Please place my hanging basket near an east or north-facing window where I can bask in gentle morning or ambient light. Direct, harsh afternoon sun will scorch my leaves, leaving unsightly brown tips and faded patches. Conversely, if I am left in a deep, dark corner, my growth will become leggy as I stretch desperately for light, and my signature variegation will fade. A spot with consistent, filtered light keeps my photosynthesis efficient and my foliage vibrant.
My watering needs are straightforward but crucial. I prefer to dry out slightly between drinks. Before you water, please check my soil. Insert your finger about an inch deep; if it feels dry, it is time for a thorough watering. Water me slowly and evenly until you see water escaping from my drainage holes. This ensures my entire root system is quenched. I despise soggy feet! Sitting in waterlogged soil will cause my roots to rot, which can be fatal. In the warmer, active growing seasons of spring and summer, I will need more frequent watering. In the cooler, dormant winter months, I require much less. Always err on the side of underwatering rather than overwatering.
To produce my prolific offshoots and maintain a full, healthy basket of foliage, I need nutrients. During my primary growing season (spring and summer), please feed me with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Providing this meal every 4-6 weeks is perfect. It gives me the energy to grow larger and send out my famous "spiderettes" or pups. Please refrain from feeding me in the autumn and winter when my growth naturally slows. Fertilizing me while I am dormant can lead to a harmful buildup of salts in my soil, which damages my roots.
You will notice I produce long runners with clusters of plantlets at their ends—these are my babies! You have two main options. First, you can leave them attached. This creates a magnificent, cascading display from my hanging basket, full and lush. Alternatively, you can propagate them. Once a pup has developed a few roots of its own, you can snip it off and place it in water or soil to root, eventually creating a whole new plant. This is how I ensure my legacy continues. Whether you leave them on or propagate them, these offshoots are a sign you are providing excellent care.
I am not overly fussy about my soil, but I require a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. A standard all-purpose mix works well. You will know it is time to repot me when my roots become so crowded that they push up against the sides of the basket or begin to emerge from the drainage holes. When you do repot, choose a new hanging basket that is only one size larger. Too much new space can lead to excess soil staying wet for too long. Gently loosen my root ball when transferring me to my new home to encourage outward growth.
