From my roots to my leaves, I thrive in well-drained soil. If my caretaker waters me too often, my roots suffocate and rot. You’ll notice my leaves turning yellow or brown, and I may wilt despite the moisture. To save me, reduce watering frequency and ensure my pot has drainage holes. Let my soil dry out between waterings—I’m drought-tolerant!
If my soil is heavy or clay-like, it traps water around my roots, starving them of oxygen. I prefer sandy or loamy soil mixed with perlite or gravel. Repot me in a fast-draining mix, and I’ll reward you with sturdy growth. Remember, soggy soil is my enemy!
I’m a sun-loving Mediterranean plant! If I don’t get at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, my stems become leggy, and my leaves lose their vibrant green hue. Move me to a brighter spot—a south-facing window or outdoors in full sun—and watch me perk up.
Spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies love to feast on my sap, leaving me weak and discolored. Check my leaves for tiny webs or sticky residue. A gentle spray of neem oil or insecticidal soap can evict these pests. Keep me healthy, and they’ll stay away!
Powdery mildew or root rot can attack me if conditions are too damp. White powdery spots or blackened roots are red flags. Improve air circulation, avoid wetting my foliage, and trim affected parts. In severe cases, a fungicide might be necessary.
If my leaves pale or growth stunts, I might lack nitrogen, iron, or magnesium. Feed me with a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season. But don’t overdo it—too much fertilizer burns my roots!
I dislike extremes. Below freezing, my leaves turn black; in scorching heat, I dry out. Keep me between 60–80°F (15–27°C). If outdoors in winter, mulch my base or bring me inside. In summer, shade me during peak heat.
A pot too small chokes my roots, while one too large holds excess water. Repot me every 1–2 years into a container just 1–2 inches larger than my root ball. Terra-cotta pots are ideal—they breathe and wick away moisture.
If you prune me too harshly or at the wrong time (like late fall), I struggle to recover. Trim me lightly in spring or early summer, focusing on woody stems. This encourages bushier growth and prevents dieback.
Moving me to a new pot or location stresses me out. My leaves may droop or fall. Minimize shock by transplanting on a cool, cloudy day, watering thoroughly afterward, and shielding me from direct sun for a few days.
