How To Fix A Leggy Wandering Dude
1. Fix the Lighting Condition
Insufficient light is a number one culprit for leggy growth, where the stems stretch out with far fewer leaves. Here’s how to give your plant the light it needs to flourish.
Aim for bright, indirect light for at least 6-8 hours daily. Think of a spot near any bright window. If it’s south-facing, keep your plant far from intense sun exposure.
This will provide ample light for healthy growth without the harsh intensity of direct sunlight. Direct sun, especially during the afternoon, can scorch the leaves, so, again, avoid west—or south-facing windows or keep the plant slightly away.
If your house doesn’t have sufficient natural brightness, you can use a grow light.
2. It could be a Watering Issue
Both overwatering and underwatering can stress your plant, affecting its stable growth and making it leggy. However, it’s mostly consistent overwatering in the majority of cases!
Establish a consistent watering routine that keeps the soil evenly moist but slightly around your leggy wandering dude. A simple rule is to water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry so that it doesn’t waterlog; a good way to find it is by inserting your finger before saturating. During winter, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant’s growth slows down.
Also, determine the frequency of watering according to its growing conditions. For example, if your tradescantia zebrina is placed in a shadowy spot with little air circulation, water less frequently. If your plant is exposed to a mix of direct and indirect sunlight with good air circulation, water more often!
3. Proper Fertilization
This native of Mexico and Central America thrives in rich, well-draining soil. So, if it appears leggy and weak due to insufficient nutrients, try revitalizing your moribund plant with a water-soluble fertilizer at least twice a month during its active growing season.
Use a fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in equal proportions. Dilute this aqueous mixture to a quarter or half its recommended strength to prevent the leaves from getting burnt.
During fall and winter, reduce feeding frequency as the plant stops growing vigorously.
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