Royal Velvet Plant

The Royal Velvet Plant should be watered regularly and abundantly during the growing season, taking care to ensure that the soil never becomes soggy. During the winter, the plant should be watered much less, allowing the soil to almost dry out between waterings.

Royal Velvet Plants prefer bright indirect light. It’s best to keep it out of direct sunlight as this can lead to leaf scorching. Ideally, it should be placed in an east-facing window. You may also use fluorescent lighting for these plants as an alternative.

Royal Velvet Plant prefers high temperatures of around 70–80°F (21–27°C). In winter, any temperature over 60°F (16°C) is acceptable. At colder temperatures, the foliage may become pale and leggy.

These plants thrive in humid conditions, so it is important to maintain a relative humidity of at least 40%. Sitting the plant on a tray of pebbles filled with water and spraying it with a misting bottle can help to keep the leaves looking lush and velvety.

The Royal Velvet Plant prefers a well-draining, loose soil. A good lightweight potting mix will do the trick. You can also add some slow-release fertilizer to the potting mix before planting to ensure proper nutrition.

It is important to fertilize the Royal Velvet Plant regularly, especially during the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer should be used. Make sure to follow package instructions for dosage and frequency. Additionally, an occasional dose of liquid fertilizer during the summer months can help promote healthy growth.

Royal Velvet Plants may be susceptible to some common pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and caterpillars. To get rid of these pests, simply remove them by hand and treat the plant with an insecticidal soap. You should also make sure to keep the plant regularly dusted to help prevent pests.

The Royal Velvet Plant should be repotted every two years to help promote new growth. When repotting, use a loose, well-draining potting mix such as a mix composed of two parts peat moss, one part vermiculite, and one part potting soil. It's important to note that Royal Velvet Plants don't do well in heavy soils.

Pruning is beneficial for the Royal Velvet Plant as it helps to shape its form and reduce the risk of pests. Use pruning shears to trim away any dead or diseased branches. Trim away any long flyaway stems to keep the overall shape of the plant.

A thin layer of mulch around the Royal Velvet Plant can help to conserve moisture. Use a thin layer of organic materials such as bark, straw, or leaves. This can also help to discourage weed growth.

Royal Velvet Plants can be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings. To propagate with a leaf, first remove a healthy leaf from the plant. Make sure to clean and disinfect your tools before cutting. Dip the base of the leaf in rooting hormone and then place it in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Water until the soil is damp but not soggy. You should start to see new growth in a few weeks.

The Royal Velvet Plant may need a bit of support if it becomes top-heavy. A stake or trellis can be used to help the plant keep its shape and keep the stems upright.

The Royal Velvet Plant typically goes through a rest period during the winter. The leaves may become pale and the stems may become leggy. During this period, reduce watering and fertilizing to allow it to rest.

The Royal Velvet Plant is not known to be toxic to pets, but it's best to keep it out of reach just to be safe.