Plant FAQs: Pilea

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Pilea | Monsteraholic

How many pilea varieties?

I recently got into collecting Pilea plants and discovered there are quite a few varieties, each with its own unique charm. My favorites are the Pilea peperomioides, also known as the Chinese Money Plant, and Pilea involucrata, which has lovely textured leaves. There are at least a dozen varieties out there, including Pilea microphylla, with its tiny leaves, and Pilea glauca, which has a beautiful bluish tint. Exploring these different types has been a fun journey and I’m always on the lookout for more to add to my collection.

How to care for pilea?

Caring for my Pilea has been a learning experience. I’ve found they thrive best in bright, indirect light and need to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. I also make sure to rotate the pot every few days so the plant grows evenly. Occasionally, I mist the leaves to maintain humidity, especially during the winter when indoor air can get very dry. Fertilizing monthly with a balanced houseplant fertilizer during the growing season has kept my Pileas looking lush and healthy.

How to propagate pilea?

When I wanted to propagate my Pilea, I was thrilled to see how easy it was. I gently removed the little offshoots, or “pups,” that sprout at the base of the plant. After letting the cut end callous over for a day or two, I planted them in moist soil and placed them in a bright spot with indirect light. Keeping the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) helped the new plants establish roots. It’s so rewarding to see these new plants grow and thrive!

Is pilea toxic to cats?

I was relieved to learn that Pilea plants are not toxic to cats. My cat loves to investigate all my plants, and I’m always worried about his safety. Knowing that the Pilea is safe means I can keep them around the house without fear. This makes Pileas a great option for pet owners who want to add some greenery to their homes without risking their furry friends’ health.

How often to water pilea?

Watering my Pilea is something I had to get just right. I water mine about once a week, but I always check the soil first. If it feels dry about an inch down, it’s time to water. During the winter, I find they need a little less water, so I adjust accordingly. It’s all about keeping the soil lightly moist but never waterlogged.

Why is my pilea drooping?

When my Pilea started drooping, I initially panicked but soon learned it was usually a sign of underwatering. Once I gave it a good drink, it perked right up within a few hours. Occasionally, drooping can also mean the plant needs more light or even a bit of a rest after rapid growth. It’s amazing how quickly they bounce back once you address their needs.

Why are my pilea leaves curling?

Curling leaves on my Pilea were a sign that something was off. I discovered it could be due to inconsistent watering, too much direct sunlight, or even pests. Adjusting my watering routine and moving the plant to a spot with more indirect light helped a lot. Keeping an eye on the leaves has been a good indicator of the plant’s overall health.

Why is my pilea turning yellow?

When my Pilea’s leaves started turning yellow, I knew something needed to change. It was often a sign of overwatering, so I cut back a bit and made sure the pot had proper drainage. Sometimes, yellowing leaves can also mean the plant isn’t getting enough light, so I moved it to a brighter spot. Regularly checking the soil moisture and light conditions has kept my Pilea’s foliage vibrant and green.

Can pilea grow in water?

Growing Pilea in water was an experiment I tried with some of the pups I propagated. I placed the cuttings in a glass jar with water, making sure only the roots were submerged. They actually did quite well, sprouting new roots within a few weeks. While they can grow in water for a while, I eventually transferred them to soil for better long-term growth. It’s a fun way to watch the root development up close!

When to repot pilea?

Repotting my Pilea was necessary when I noticed it outgrowing its current pot and roots poking out of the drainage holes. I usually do this every year or when the plant seems too crowded. Spring is the best time to repot, as the plant is entering its growing season. I carefully transfer it to a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, making sure to handle the roots gently to avoid shock.

How to repot pilea?

Repotting my Pilea involved a few careful steps. First, I gently removed the plant from its old pot, loosening the soil around the roots. Then, I placed it in a new pot with fresh potting mix, making sure it was at the same depth as before. After filling in the gaps with more soil, I watered it thoroughly and let it settle in its new home. Giving it a good drink after repotting helps reduce transplant shock and gets the plant off to a good start in its new pot.

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