Graptopetalum paraguayense 'Ghost Plant'

Ghost plant should not be overwatered, as it can cause root rot. During the warm seasons, water every 7 to 10 days, and water even less often during colder months. Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain from the container. Do not let the pot stand in water. Allow the soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot.

Ghost Plant prefers very bright indirect light, such as provided in a south-facing window. It does, however, tolerate light partial shade, but it will grow and bloom best in the brighter light. Avoid full shade, as it could cause the tips of the leaves to brown and the colors to have duller hues.

This plant prefers temperatures between 50 and 80F (10-27C). When temperatures drop below 50F (10C), move the plant to a warmer location.

Low air humidity is ideal for the Graptopetalum paraguayense; however, it can tolerate damp, humid air, but should be located away from direct drafts.

This plant prefers a soil that drains quickly. A good potting mix for Ghost Plant is a mix of 3 parts soil, 2 parts sand, and 1 part perlite or pumice. It is important to test the soil to ensure the right drainage and aeration are available for your plant.

Graptopetalum paraguayense does not need much fertilization. During the growing season, it should be fertilized every 2 to 3 months with a general-purpose liquid fertilizer. During the winter, it should not be fertilized at all. If the plant is kept in a pot, an African violet fertilizer works particularly well.

Graptopetalum paraguayense is generally a pest-free plant. If pests do appear, try to remove the pests by hand and rinse the plant with a water hose, and then spray with a general insecticidal soap every week. If that doesn’t work, try an organic neem oil spray, which will also help treat any fungal diseases.

Graptopetalum Paraguayense doesn’t grow quickly and doesn’t require frequent repotting. It should typically be repotted every other year in the early spring. Use a soil specifically formulated for succulents and cacti and make sure the pot has a drainage hole to prevent water from standing in the soil for too long.

If you want to encourage bushier growth, you can prune away any dead ends or leaves that are browning leaving healthy leaves. Be sure to sterilize any cutting tools before pruning to prevent spreading diseases.

Mulching is not necessary for Ghost Plant; however, it can help keep the soil from drying out and keep the plant healthy. Mulch should never be set directly against the stems or leaves of the plant. Use a porous, breathable material such as wood chips or gravel to mulch.

Graptopetalum paraguayense can be propagated by stem cuttings and offsets. To propagate by stem cuttings, use sterile scissors to take a cutting from a healthy, pest-free stem that is 3 to 6 inches long. Make the cut just below a leaf node and remove the bottom leaves from the stem. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days for the cut end to heal before planting in a combination of cactus soil and sterile builder’s sand.

Graptopetalum paraguayense is a slow-growing plant and does not require any additional support. It can, however, benefit from having a stake to support its stems.

Graptopetalum paraguayense does not have a true dormant period. During the winter months, temperatures can drop slightly and the plant may take a short rest. To get the most out of the blooms, it is best to keep the plant near a window with lots of light.

Graptopetalum paraguayense is not toxic to pets.