Barbados Cherry

The Barbados Cherry should typically be watered when the top one inch of soil feels dry and be sure not to over-water it. Wilting leaves may indicate over-watering. During the summer, it should be watered about once a week. In winter, when temperatures are cooler, the Barbados Cherry should be watered every 10-14 days. Place a saucer beneath the pot to catch the excess water and empty the saucer whenever water appears in it.

Bright indirect light is best for the Barbados Cherry houseplant. It can tolerate low light locations but its leaves may yellow if not properly exposed to light. If exposing the Barbados Cherry to direct sunlight, keep it out of the sun for at least 4 hours a day. During the summer, it’s best to keep the plant out of direct sunlight, as the intense light will cause the leaves to yellow.

Barbados Cherry houseplants prefer a temperature range of 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit (18-21 degrees Celsius). Keep the plant away from drafts from air conditioning, heating vents or open windows. During the winter, they should ideally not drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).

Humidity levels help keep Barbados Cherries healthy and thriving. If you live in a dry climate, mist the leaves with water a couple of times a week or invest in a humidifier. It is important to keep a relative humidity of 40-60% in order for the plant to thrive.

Barbados Cherry thrives best in a well drained potting mix with moderate to low fertility. A mixture of potting soil, peat, and perlite or vermiculite is ideal. The soil should be moist but not soggy so it’s important to let the soil fully dry out between waterings.

Barbados Cherry plants should be fertilized every two to three weeks during the Spring and Summer months with an all-purpose liquid fertilizer. During the Winter months, fertilization should only be done every 4-6 weeks. Once fertilized, be sure to water the soil to help the fertilizer soak in.

While Barbados Cherries are generally resistant to pests, one of the most common pests it attracts is mealybugs. These insects will look like small white clumps on the leaves of the plant. To get rid of mealybugs, use an insecticidal soap or spray and gently wipe off the leaves to remove any pests. The most important step in preventing pest infestations is to regularly inspect your plant’s foliage and make sure the bedding it is planted in is well drained and free from debris.

Barbados Cherry should be repotted every 2-3 years in order to give the roots extra room to expand and breathe. When repotting, use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for houseplants. Make sure the pot has a drainage hole at the bottom to help with water drainage.

Pruning your Barbados Cherry is important in order to keep it healthy and looking its best. Prune off any dead or dying leaves and stems when needed. Also trim away any branches that are crossing over one another or are growing outward instead of up. If needed, pinch back newly developing stems to promote bushy growth.

Using a light and airy mulch such as shredded bark will help keep the soil moist and help suppress weed growth. The mulch should be lightly tilled into the soil and not too densely mounded around the base of the plant.

Barbados Cherry is relatively easy to propagate from cuttings. Take a few stem cuttings from the parent plant and remove the lower leaves. Place the cuttings in water until they develop roots. When roots appear, transplant them to a pot with moist soil. Keep them out of direct sunlight and water them regularly.

Barbados Cherry is a relatively slow-growing houseplant and will not need to be supported with a trellis or stake. To keep its form and shape, gently straighten bent or arching stems with your fingers.

Barbados Cherries prefer to have a brief period of rest during the Winter months. Reduce the amount of water during the cooler months to stimulate dormancy. While their growth may be slowed during this period, Barbados Cherries will pick up again in the Spring.

Barbados Cherries are not toxic to pets and can be safely kept in their homes.