Apricot Glow
Episcia cupreata, commonly known as Apricot Glow, is an attractive perennial love-in-a-mist relative, providing low-growing foliage color year-round in crops of deep burgundy to apricot, dotted with occasional purple “snakeskin” markings. Variegated blooms are seen in spring and summer. It is native to the tropics and subtropics of Central America and the Caribbean islands, where it grows alon the forest ground. This showy stunner is often used as a foliage plant in landscapes as well as indoor environments.
Water your Apricot Glow when the soil is just beginning to dry out, allowing the top inch or two of soil to go dry in between waterings. Be careful not to overwater. Water early in the day to give the plant time to dry off, as wet leaves overnight can increase the risk of fungus and other diseases.
Episcia cupreata prefers medium to bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun will burn its leaves and cause them to turn yellow. The quality of the light also matters, so medium to bright LED grow lights work best, and a few hours a day of direct or filtered sun is also beneficial.
The ideal temperature for an Apricot Glow is between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Temperatures above 85°F (29°C) must be avoided as it may be fatal for the plant.
Episcia cupreata prefer a moderate relative humidity. The soil of the plant should always remain moist while avoiding overwatering and it is recommended to mist the foliage to raise the humidity and provide a cooling effect.
Episcia cupreata needs well-draining soil with good aeration. To create a suitable potting mix, use equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite mixed with compost for added nutrients.
Fertilize Apricot Glow every 6-8 weeks during the growing season using a liquid balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer solution. During the winter months or when the plant isn't actively growing, fertilization can be discontinued as the plant is dormant.
Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites are the most common pests affecting Apricot Glow. If these pests are present, regular applications of neem oil or insecticidal soap should be applied. Yellow sticky traps can also help trap adult flying aphids and other pests.
It is best to repot the Apricot Glow every 12 to 18 months with a pot that has drainage holes. Choose a new container with a diameter that is one to two inches larger than the previous one and potting soil specifically designed for indoor houseplants.
Pruning should be done to remove dead or damaged leaves. Apricot Glow can be pruned throughout the year but only when needed after noticing signs of plant deterioration.
Mulch is not necessary for Apricot Glow, however, you may use organic materials such as bark chips for decorative purposes. Mulch will help retain moisture, but it will have the opposite effect if used with overwatered plants.
Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and begins by snipping off a few leaves. You will then need to water the cut leaf, place it on damp soil with the cut side facing downward, and then mist regularly until new growth appears.
Apricot Glow does not need any support since they prefer to be left to their own devices and can grow along the surface. Regular pinching will help keep your Apricot Glow full and bushy.
Apricot Glow doesn't require a rest period, but it does benefit from a decrease in watering during the winter months. The leaves may start turning yellow if the plant is consistently kept too wet.
Yes, Apricot Glow is toxic to pets if ingested. The sap and foliage contain small amounts of toxins which can cause digestive upset if ingested.
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