False Aralia

False Aralia prefers moist, but not soggy soil. Make sure to water thoroughly and then let the top inch or so of soil dry out before watering again. Keeping the soil too dry or too wet can cause the tips of the leaves to turn brown. Too much fertilizer may also cause leaf tips to burn.

False Aralia does best when it is provided with medium to bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can be too harsh and may burn the foliage of the plant. Too little light can cause the stems to become weak and spindly. The leaves will also become more sparse and lose their color. A curtained window in a bright room is ideal.

False Aralia will grow best with temperatures between 55–85°F and 10–20°C. During winter, keep the temperature above 10°C. Avoid cold drafts and direct heat sources such as radiators or air conditioners.

False Aralia enjoys relatively high humidity levels and should be misted frequently with distilled water. Additionally, using a pebble tray with water near the plant can help raise the humidity level. Placing a humidifier in the room where the plant is kept can also help in keeping the humidity levels optimal.

False Aralia prefers a slightly acidic, well-draining potting mix. A combination of peat, sand, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal. Avoid using soil that is too heavy as this can lead to poor drainage and root rot.

False Aralia should be fertilized approximately once a month from March to October with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. During the winter months, reduce the amount of fertilizer to once every three months. Avoid overfertilizing as too much fertilizer can lead to salt build-up in the soil and cause leaf burn. Always water the plant before and after applying fertilizer.

False Aralia may be vulnerable to pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. Make sure to inspect your plant regularly and use an organic insecticide to remove any pests. Spray the insecticide on the foliage of the plant and make sure to cover all of the stems and leaves to ensure all the problem areas are treated. To prevent future infestations, keep the plant away from direct drafts of air coming from outside to reduce the risk of pests.

False Aralia should be repotted every two to three years in the springtime. Use a good quality potting mix paired with a pot that has adequate drainage holes. Place the plant in the center of the pot before filling with the potting mix. Make sure to firmly press the soil around the base of the plant for better support.

False Aralia is best kept in shape with regular trimming and pruning. Trimming helps keep the plant looking its best while also encouraging healthy new growth. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to trim dead or diseased leaves, as well as any shoots that are growing out of control. Avoid pruning too much as this can damage the plant. Keep in mind that pruning does not change the size of a False Aralia, as it will continue to grow in height.

Mulching the soil by applying a layer of organic material, such as chopped bark or wood chips, can help retain moisture in the soil and encourage healthy growth. Avoid using mulch that is extremely acidic, such as pine or spruce needle mulch.

False Aralia is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Make sure to take a cutting with several leaves attached and dip the ends in rooting hormone before planting in moist, well-drained soil. Place in a bright indirect location and keep the soil moist until new growth appears. Plant cuttings in individual containers for best results.

False Aralia has slender stems and branches that may need support to remain upright. Stake the plant lightly using a thin bamboo pole or wooden stake to keep the plant from toppling over.

False Aralia plants do not require a rest period. However, during the winter months, if the plant is placed in a colder and darker location, it may enter a semi-dormant period. Reduce watering and allow the soil to dry a bit more in-between waterings.

False Aralia is not considered to be toxic to humans and pets. As always, make sure to keep all plants out of reach of children and pets.