Aluminum Plant

This houseplant does not like over- or under-watering. The Aluminum Plant loves to stay moist and should never be allowed to dry out completely. Keep the soil evenly moist during summer time, and reduce watering in winter. Avoid wetting the foliage when you water to avoid fungal diseases.

Aluminum Plants will tolerate a wide variety of light conditions. They prefer bright, indirect light, however, they can tolerate low light locations if you avoid direct sunlight. In areas with intense sunlight, Pilea cadierei might start yellowing from leaf burn. In low light environments, the foliage grows slower and can become leggy.

The Aluminum Plant prefers temperatures between 60-85 ℉ (15-30℃). During winter times the temperature should not go below 60℉ (15℃). If it does, it might cause the foliage to become soft and yellow.

Pilea cadierei thrives in high humidity, 50-70% is ideal. During winter times you can increase the humidity with a humidifier or by placing a pebble tray under the plant. Misting the leaves once or twice a week can also help.

A well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus mix or a potting soil combined with some perlite or sand, will work best for Aluminum Plants. If the soil is too heavy and retains a lot of water, the roots may start rotting. Avoid using a garden soil.

Fertilize Pilea cadierei with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. As the growth slows down in the winter, reduce fertilizing to once a month or stop completely. Don't use too much fertilizer, as it can burn the roots and cause yellowing of the foliage.

Aluminum Plants are prone to common houseplant pests such as mealybugs, aphids, scale, spider mites, thrips, and whiteflies. If you notice any of these pests, it is important to take immediate action. Dab the plant with isopropyl alcohol to kill pests, spray the plant with insecticidal soap solution, and remove infested leaves. Repeat treatment until the infestation is gone.

It is recommended to repot Pilea cadierei every 2-3 years to refresh the soil. During this time you should also divide the overgrown plants and propagate the cuttings. When repotting, go up one pot size to provide the plant with more space. Be sure to use a potting mix that is well draining and has a somewhat acidic PH.

Aluminum Plants don't need much pruning other than occasional pinching of the tips to encourage a bushy appearance. You can also prune off any dead or damaged leaves that have been affected by pests or diseases. If the foliage gets too leggy, you can prune the longest stems to promote new growth.

It is recommended to leave a layer of mulch at the top of the potting mix to help with moisture retention and weed suppression. Any organic material, such as bark or wood chips, can be used for this purpose. Keep the mulch away from the center of the plant to avoid moisture-related issues.

Aluminum Plants are easy to propagate by stem cuttings. Cut a stem piece about 3-4 inches with 3-5 nodes and remove the lower leaves from the cutting. Place the cutting in water and wait for roots to grow. When roots are 2-3 inches long, take the cutting out of the water and plant it in a pot filled with well-drained soil mix.

This plant does not require any special support, however you can use poles, trellises, or moss sticks to encourage the vine-like growth. Place the supporting material in the pot and tie the stems to it as they grow.

This plant does not require a rest period and can be kept in the same condition all year round. Avoid fertilizing during winter to give the plant a break.

Aluminum Plants are toxic to house pets, so it is best to keep them away from your furry friends.