Hoyas Carnosa

Hoya carnosa requires ample hydration. Water your plant when the top 0.5-1 inch layer of soil is dry. Letting the soil completely dry out will cause the leaves to become crispy and start wilting. When watering, use room temperature filtered water and continue to water until it begins to drip out of the drainage holes.

Hoya carnosa can tolerate any light but bright and direct light may cause the leaves to turn yellow. It is best to keep it in bright, indirect light. If kept in low light conditions, Hoya carnosa's growth rate will be much slower and its leaves may appear darker. Near an east, south, or west-facing window is ideal.

This houseplant prefers temperatures ranging from 50-80 Fahrenheit (10-26 Celsius). It should be protected from cold drafts in the winter.

Hoyas typically love dew and high humidity, so they are well suited for the bathroom or a misting of the leaves once a week. They do not like dry air. It can be beneficial to use a room humidifier indoors throughout the winter months.

Hoya carnosa prefers a fast-draining, well-aerated soil mix. A mix of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and potting soil is ideal. Make sure to use soil that is disease-free and free from any pests.

Hoyas Carnosa should be fertilized every two to four weeks in spring and summer with a half-strength, balanced fertilizer. It is best to reduce the fertilization in autumn and winter. It is important to use fertilizer that is not too high in nitrogen or else your plant will not bloom. Be sure to check the label of the fertilizer before use.

The Hoya can be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, scales, and mites which feed on the sap of the leaves and stems. The best way to get rid of them is to use a cotton swab dipped in Neem oil or isopropyl alcohol and rub it on the affected areas. Insecticidal soaps can also be used. It is important to note to not use any harsh chemical insecticides to get rid of these pests as they can cause damage to the plant.

Hoya carnosa should be repotted every two to three years or when the plant has grown too big for the existing pot. When repotting, use a well-draining potting mix and be sure to check for any signs of pests or disease.

Hoya carnosa does not need frequent pruning, except for trimming and shaping the plant every two to three years or so. It should only be done when the plant has grown too large for the space. When pruning, prune the larger stems and the thick vines. This can be done with a sharp pair of scissors and make sure to disinfect them in between cuts.

This houseplant doesn't require mulch, however, a few handfuls of coco coir or compost can help in increasing soil drainage and moisture retention.

Hoya carnosa can be propagated via stem cuttings. Cut the stem off and let it sit on the counter for a couple of days to allow the cutting to heal and scab over to prevent any diseases. Plant the stem in moist but not wet soil and form roots. Provide bright, indirect light and water the cutting when the top half-inch to one-inch of soil is dry.

This perennial climbing plant should be provided with a trellis or stake to help when climbing.

This houseplant does not require a rest period, however, in the winter, it’s best to reduce the amount of watering and fertilizing.

Hoyas Carnosa is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested and may cause irritation to the skin and eyes of humans or animals.