Eyelash Spiderwort

Eyelash Spiderwort should be watered when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Water thoroughly, until the excess drain out the bottom of the pot, and allow for the soil to dry out before watering again. This houseplant does not tolerate over-watering well, and standing water in the pot can cause root rot. If the leaves begin to yellow or the foliage wilts, this could indicate overwatering.

Eyelash Spiderwort requires bright, indirect light. With good lighting, the leaves will have a nice silver-green hue. Too much direct sunlight will cause the leaves to burn and the plant to wilt. In lower light conditions, the foliage may be limited and could become spindly. It’s best to keep this plant near an east- or west-facing window, or in an area that gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.

This houseplant prefers temperatures between 65-80⁰F (18-26⁰C). It does not do well in extreme heat or cold and in temperatures below 50⁰F (10⁰C), the foliage may begin to die back. If the temperatures are consistently too high, the leaves may start to burn due to dehydration. If the temperatures are too low, the flowers may not open.

Eyelash Spiderwort prefers a medium humidity level, but it will do fine at normal household humidity levels. If the air is particularly dry, the leaves could become dry and may drop. To improve humidity, mist the leaves regularly or use a room humidifier.

Eyelash Spiderwort prefers a light, well-draining soil that contains organic matter. Use a potting mix specifically formulated for houseplants, as it will drain well but retain moisture. Add perlite or sand for better drainage. This plant does not tolerate soggy soil, so be sure not to overwater.

The leaves of Eyelash Spiderwort are sensitive to fertilizer. Use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer, mixed at a rate of half the recommended dosage, and apply it to the soil twice month in the spring and summer. Make sure to flush the soil with plain water during the fall and winter months so the fertilizer won’t burn the plant’s roots.

Eyelash Spiderwort is prone to spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. If you notice your houseplant has been attacked by pests, you can try to remove them from your plant with an insecticidal soap. Spray the entire plant, including the underside of the leaves, carefully avoiding the flowers. Repeat application as needed and keep an eye out for any returning pests. If the pest infestation is heavy, it may be a good idea to dump the potting soil and start over with fresh soil. This may help prevent pests from coming back.

Eyelash Spiderwort does not require frequent repotting. When it becomes rootbound or you need to switch to a larger pot, repot the plant in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use a slightly larger pot, with a well-draining potting mix that contains compost or peat moss, sand, and perlite. After repotting, water generously to help the roots settle into the new soil and fertilize lightly for best results.

This houseplant does not require much pruning, but it may be necessary to trim off any dead or dying foliage. Once the flower buds form, you can pinch the ends of the stems to reduce the length and shape the plant. Deadheading after blooming will encourage new flowers to form and keep the foliage healthy.

When in active growth, Eyelash Spiderwort can benefit from a mulch layer, such as leaves, pine needles, or even peat moss mixed with sand. The mulch layer helps keep the soil moist, and it provides beneficial nutrients to the plant.

Eyelash Spiderwort can be propagated from stem cuttings or division. To propagate from stem cuttings, use a sharp knife to take cuttings of 3-4 inches in length. Place the cuttings in a sterile potting mix and keep warm and moist. To propagate from division, carefully separate the clumps of soil with roots and replant in a small container. Once the roots are established, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent position outdoors or indoors.

Eyelash Spiderwort may need support when it is in bloom. Staking taller stems may help keep the blooms upright and well-supported. Use peat moss to secure the stems to a stake in the pot.

Eyelash Spiderwort should ideally have a dormant period in the winter. If grown indoors, the plant can be kept in a cool spot with no fertilizer or water and it will go dormant on its own. In the winter, keep it away from drafts and temperatures below 50⁰F (10⁰C), and avoid over-watering. When in the dormant period, the plant may drop its foliage and won't require much attention.

Eyelash Spiderwort is non-toxic to cats and dogs, however, the foliage may cause upset stomachs if ingested in large amounts.