Ice Plant 'Red Mountain'

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' enjoys consistent moisture, especially during the heating months of summer. Water deeply making sure that the soil is fully saturated. Water the soil and not the foliage, as this can lead to fungal problems. For extended dry periods, add a layer of mulch to help conserve moisture.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' prefers full sun from spring to early fall. Its blooms may be decreased in partial shade, so place it in a location that receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. During the winter months, it serves best when it’s in a bright spot with some shade.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' prefers temperatures between 50 and 75°F (10 to 24°C). This temperatures should be sustained during both day and night, as this will maintain active growth and consistent bloom; it does not tolerate chilly weather. Temperatures above 95°F (35°C) should be avoided.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' enjoys regular misting to help keep the environment humid. Spray them with a miniscule amount of water, as more than a few drops will cause rot. This needs be done weekly or more if possible in a location that has low humidity, especially during the warmer seasons.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' prefers soil with good drainage, as wet or heavy soils can lead to root rot. Choose a gritty, fast-draining potting soil, or use equal parts of peat moss, sand, and loam. This plant grows well in acidic to slightly alkaline soils. A pH level 6 to 8.5 would be ideal.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' should be fertilized every two weeks during the spring and summer growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to a quarter-strength. This will provide the required nutrients for healthy growth and flower production. During the cooler seasons, you can reduce fertilization to once every 6 weeks.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' is mostly disease and pest-free. Aphids, mealy bugs, and scale can be present. To get rid of them, it is best to remove them by hand by gently rubbing the foliage. If a large-scale infestation is encountered, then insecticidal soap can be used. When using this method it is advisable to spray the entire plant.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' should be repotted every two years. This will help to maintain healthy soil and promote healthy root growth and water flow. Repot only when the sun comes out in the spring, and ensure the soil and temperature are ideal. Select the appropriate soil that drains well, as Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' does not like being in soggy soil.

Pruning is not usually considered necessary for Ice Plant 'Red Mountain'. If you decide to prune, implement it during the summer season when they are actively growing and blooming. Prune only the dead or damaged leaves and flowers and never more than a third of the plant at a time. This will help promote fresher, healthier foliage and blooms.

Mulching helps keep the soil hydrated and reduces potential for weeds. In case of Ice Plant 'Red Mountain', mulching is perfectly safe and beneficial as the soil around it does not easily retain water. Use organic mulch such as compost, well-aged manure, or shredded bark.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' is relatively easy to propagate. Cuttings with some stem and at least one leaf attached can be used to propagate them. If the cuttings do not immediately form roots, lower the temperature, increase humidity levels and place the plant in a spot with bright indirect sunlight. The cuttings should take root in a few weeks time.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' does not demand too much support; having said that, it is advisable to use some kind of stick or pole for support. This will help to keep the large heads of blooms from accessing the ground and getting damaged. Stake the succulent if necessary and tie it if gets too tall or its flowers get too heavy.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' benefits from a rest period from late winter until early spring. During this rest period, reduce water and fertilization and stop pruning. If temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C), move them indoors or to an area that is warm and receives indirect sunlight.

Ice Plant 'Red Mountain' is not toxic to pets.