Tricolor Prayer Plant
Tricolor Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura 'Tricolor') is an attractive evergreen, herbaceous perennial from the Marantaceae family of prayer plants. This delightful houseplant is a low-growing bushy plant, reaching up to 6-12 inches in height. The plants have deep green foliage with variegated patches of white, pink and light green for added interest. Small, pinkish-white flowers with purple edges appear during the summer months.
Tricolor Prayer Plant prefers well-draining, evenly moist soil. Check the soil for moisture often, if the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch, it's time to give your plant a good watering. Be sure not to over-water the Prayer Plant specifically during the winter months when growth rates slow, excess water can cause root rot. Try to mist your plant often and keep the humidity high for optimal it health.
Tricolor Prayer Plant loves bright indirect light to bring out the vibrancy in its foliage. They can tolerate shade, but will not show as much color if not provided with ample light. Place your Prayer Plant in an east facing window for the brightest lighting. Window screens and filmy curtains can be used if necessary to diffuse the natural light.
Tricolor Prayer Plant thrives best in temperatures ranging from 65°F-85°F (18°C-29°C), but can also tolerate temperatures as low as 55°F (13°C). Keeping your Prayer Plant away from cold drafts, hot radiators, and air conditioning systems will help reduce the chance of severe damage.
Tricolor Prayer Plant prefers humid conditions above 40-50% relative humidity. If the humidity is lower than 40-50%, it may lead to worse growth and cause the leaves to brown at tips. Misting the plants can help to increase the humidity levels around it. Regular humidifying can also be done by placing a pebble tray with water around or beneath the plants.
Tricolor Prayer Plant prefers a well-draining, lightweight, soil-based potting mix. A great option would be peat-based, or an equal mix of perlite, peat, and compost. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 6–7.5.
Fertilize Tricolor Prayer Plant once every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, using a balanced liquid fertilizer solution and diluting it to half-strength. During the dormant season, fertilize once a month if necessary, or discontinue fertilizing until the new growing season begins in the spring. Do not feed during the plants rest period.
Tricolor Prayer Plant is usually resistant to pests, but may still fall victim to certain infestations. Some of the more common pests include aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, scales, and whiteflies. If pests do appear, they can be treated with a variety of methods, such as using natural predators like ladybugs, spraying the plant with a high-pressure water jet, or applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Be sure to monitor the plant for any further out brakcs of pests.
Tricolor Prayer Plant does not need to be repotted very often – generally, once every 2-3 years is usually enough. When the time comes to repot, make sure to choose a container that is only a few sizes larger than the current pot, and use a well-draining, lightweight, soil-based potting mix. Be sure to water your plant thoroughly after repotting to help settle the soil.
Tricolor Prayer Plant can be pruned to maintain good shape and size. To prune, simply cut off the dry, dead, or diseased leaves and stems back to their base. Pruning can be done any time during the year. It's important to make sure your pruners are sharp and clean to reduce the risk of spreading any bacteria or fungus on the plant.
Tricolor Prayer Plant does not need to be mulched regularly, but if desired, a thin layer of mulch or leaf litter can be lightly applied around the base of the plant. This layer of mulch helps to keep the soil moist and will also add organic matter to the soil.
Propagating Tricolor Prayer Plant is quite easy. The simplest method involves stem cuttings of at least 5 in (13 cm) in length, preferably with a few leaves. These cuttings can be planted directly into moist soil, in either a container or in a protected area outside. Keep the soil moist and cover with a transparent plastic bag to retain moisture. Once the roots have formed, it is time to permanently replant the Prayer Plant.
Tricolor Prayer Plant needs to be staked or supported to maintain its shape and size. Strands of fishing line or twine can be used to support the stems. Keep an eye on the stems as they grow, repositioning the support strings accordingly.
Tricolor Prayer Plant does not go through a full dormancy, but will need a slight rest period during the winter months, when growth rates slow down. During this period, water your Prayer Plant less frequently, and mist often. Do not place it in a sunny area and avoid using fertilizers during the rest period.
Tricolor Prayer Plant is non-toxic to both humans and pets, so it is safe to have around the house.
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