Rose of China

Rose of China likes to dry slightly between each watering, so check soil moisture weekly. When checking soil moisture, feel the soil several inches below the soil surface. During the warm summer months, water weekly. In the winter, water about once every two weeks allowing the soil to become slightly dry before watering. Over-watering can cause root rot, so avoid keeping the soil too moist.

Rose of China requires a lot of light to flower. When grown indoors, it should be placed in a sunny spot where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If the foliage on your plant turns pale, that is an indication it's not receiving enough light. If grown outdoors, choose a spot where the plant will receive plenty of morning sun. Too much direct sun in the afternoon, however, may cause leaf scorching.

Rose of China prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-26°C). If you keep your plant outdoors, you must bring the plant indoors when the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C). Do not expose the plant to temperatures of 40°F (4°C) or below.

Rose of China needs high humidity in order to thrive. To keep the relative humidity above 40%, mist it with soft water several times a week. Alternatively, you can keep a humidity tray filled with water with pebbles or a wet cloth nearby. Consider using a humidifier if you live in a dry place in your house or apartment.

Rose of China prefers soil that is porous and has good drainage. It is best to use a potting mixture that holds water but does not become water-logged such as a potting soil that contains peat, vermiculite, and perlite. Avoid heavy soil mixtures, as these can become water-logged. Regular feeding with an all-purpose fertilizer will give your plant the nutrients it needs.

Fertilize Rose of China once every two months during the spring and summer with a high-potassium liquid fertilizer. It is best to mix the fertilizer at half the recommended dosage as over-fertilization may cause a nutrient build-up in the soil, which can be harmful. If you choose to apply granular fertilizer, spread it around the base of the plant, avoiding contact with foliage and flowers.

Rose of China is susceptible to a variety of common insect pests such as whitefly, mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids as well as fungus gnats. To prevent infestations, you should keep the plant clean and observe it regularly. If you find any insects, remove them by hand or use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. If the infestation is severe, using an insecticide is appropriate.

Your Rose of China should be repotted every 2-3 years in the late winter or early spring. Repotting is best done when the plant has grown too large for its pot. Be sure to use an appropriate potting mix that is well-draining but still water retentive. When repotting, try to avoid exposing or disturbing the roots as much as possible as this is when it is most vulnerable to pest infestations.

Pruning is necessary for the overall health of your Rose of China. Prune away any dead or diseased branches with sharp, sterilized cutters. Make sure to save healthy, living wood to reduce shock on the plant. Pruning should occur after the flowering season in late summer and early fall.

Mulching will add organic material to the soil and helps to retain moisture and discourage weeds. Rose of China grows best in soil with plenty of organic matter, so use mulch such as leaf litter, shredded bark, organic compost, or wood chips to ensure that the soil stays healthy.

Using cuttings is the best method for propagating Rose of China. Collect stem cuttings about 4-6 inches in length and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and then insert in a propagation tray with warm, moist soil. To encourage root growth, make a small greenhouse atmosphere with a plastic bag for underground potentiation. Check daily for rooting before transferring the cuttings to the ground or a pot.

Rose of China is an excellent climbing plant as it sends out long shoots that can be tied to a trellis or post. If the plant needs to be pruned, consider training the stems to climb a support structure in order to improve the air circulation around the plant.

Rose of China will go into dormancy during the cold winter months and may lose its leaves. During this time, stop fertilizing and reduce watering. Instead wait until warmer weather has arrived to provide the plant with plenty of light and warm temperatures.

Rose of China is not toxic to pets or humans, making it an ideal choice for households with children and pets.