Indian Borage

Water Indian Borage as soon as the top soil is dry. Make sure the soil has adequate drainage, and water only when it is dry. Small and delicate young plants require more water than mature plants, but don’t over water them. In winter, the watering can be reduced significantly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil is not staying wet for long.

Indian Borage prefers bright indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Too much direct sun will scorch the leaves, making them turn brown and dry. In winter, some direct sun can be beneficial for the plant. If you notice the leaves fading in color or becoming overcrowded, cut them back and move the plant into a spot with more light.

Indian Borage prefers temperatures between 60 to 80℉ (16 - 26℃), and can handle temperatures down to 50℉ (10℃). It will not handle too much cold, and temperatures beyond the mentioned range should be avoided.

High humidity is not important for Plectranthus amboinicus, but it does make the plants look lusher. Mist them occasionally, especially in the dry season.

Indian Borage prefers well drained loam soil with a pH between 6 and 7. Make sure to add some peat moss, perlite or coarse sand for good drainage, and compost for nutrients. Avoid soils that are too fertile or rich in nutrients.

Fertilize Indian Borage in spring and summer every two to four weeks. Use a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer. Alternatively, use compost tea or liquid kelp extract for better results. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to root burn. In winter, fertilizers should be reduced significantly or avoided altogether.

Indian Borage is generally not affected by pests, but occasionally it could be attacked by scale, mealybugs and spider mites. To get rid of them, prune the affected leaves and spray with a natural insecticide. For more serious infestations, use a chemical insecticide. Sulphur and Rotenone can be used on a trial basis, but as much natural treatments should be preferred. Ladybugs and their larvae can help to combat the infestation.

Repot your Indian Borage when the plants become overcrowded in the pot. This usually happens every two to three years. Make sure to use well drained soil in pots with drainage holes, and change it every few years. Whenever repotting, use new soil, and never reuse old soil.

Prune the plants to reduce their size and to keep their shape. Pruning should be performed when the plants are actively growing, and can be done as much as needed. Leaf pruning is also beneficial for the health of the plant, as it will improve the light and air circulation around the plant.

Mulch can be used to keep moisture in the soil without drying out. Mulch should be used around the plants, but with caution - too much mulching will encourage too much moisture, resulting in root rot.

Indian Borage can be propagated by either cuttings or division. For cuttings, take a stem cuttings and plant them into moist soil. For division, you can divide the stems and roots of the plant into separate parts and replant them into separate pots. Newly propagated plants will always require more attention and moisture until they are established.

Indian Borage as they mature can become quite top-heavy and require support. Use stakes to prop them up, making sure the stakes are quiet sturdy.

Indian Borage doesn't need a period of rest and can be grown year round, although for best results, it should be given a period of rest in the winter months. This means reducing watering and fertilizer during the winter to help the plant conserve its energy.

Indian Borage is non-toxic to pets and humans, so no need to worry about your furry friends munching on the leaves!