Gold Dust Plant

The Gold Dust Plant should always be kept moist but not soggy. During the summer and active growth period, water it when the soil starts to feel dry. In the winter and dormant period, the water should be reduced to prevent over-watering. If the plant begins to wilt or look limp then it is an indicator that it is in need of water.

Gold Dust plants prefer indirect light and not full sun. They do well in rooms with north, east, or west-facing windows. In the summer, it can be exposed to some direct sun, however, it should have some protection from intense afternoon sunlight. In general, it should never be in a room that gets so much sun that standing in it would be uncomfortable for a person.

Ideally, temperatures should be kept between 62 - 75 degrees Fahrenheit (17-24 degrees Celsius). In winter, temperatures should not drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius)

This plant prefers humidity levels around 40-50%. During the winter months, an artificial humidifier may be helpful. Droopiness can indicate low humidity.

The Gold Dust Plant should be planted in well-draining soil. An all-purpose potting soil mixed with 20-30% perlite or pumice is recommended.

The Gold Dust Plant needs regular fertilization in order to produce vibrant foliage and flowers. During the growing season, fertilize the plant at least once per month with a liquid fertilizer. In winter, fertilization should only be done once or twice and should be done with a lower nitrogen fertilizer.

Common pests that can infest Gold Dust Plant are scale, mealybug, and spider mite. Treatments for insect infestations include neem oil, insecticidal soap or horticultural oils. Chemical pesticides should be used only as a last resort, and proper safety precautions should be taken.

Generally, the plant does not need to be repotted often. It may benefit from being repotted every few years into either a larger pot or fresh potting soil. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for houseplants. Repotting should be done in the spring months.

To keep a Gold Dust Plant looking its best, it should be pruned yearly. Pruning should be done in the summer, just after flowering. The plant can be safely reduced by up to one third of its size. Remove any straggly, spindly or dead growth during the maintenance pruning.

Mulch around the Gold Dust Plant with organic material such as leaves, peat moss and/or manure. This helps to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

The Gold Dust Plant can be propagated through cuttings, division or layering. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy part of the plant in either summer or early spring. They should be placed in a potting soil mix that is kept slightly damp until rooted. Division should be done in spring by carefully cutting through the rootball until it can be divided into distinct sections.

The Gold Dust Plant does not require a support structure, however, it is beneficial to provide one. A stake or trellis is recommended for taller varieties to help keep the plant upright.

The Gold Dust Plant should be given a rest period in winter in order to encourage new growth in the spring. During this time, water should be reduced and the plant should not receive any fertilizer or additional light.

The Gold Dust Plant is considered non-toxic to both humans and pets.