Solenostemon 'Kiwi Fern'

Spring-Autumn · Indoors

Feed with high nitrogen feed

Use a houseplant feed that is high in nitrogen each fortnight from May until August.

Where food elements are listed as three numeric values on the label representing in order Nitrogen(N)-Phosphorus(P)-Potassium(K), choose one where nitrogen has a high value.

Spring-Autumn · Indoors

Water regularly during growth

Water regularly while in growth.

Adopt a regime that means the plants are thoroughly watered every week so that they do not become dessicated. In hot weather watering may need to be more frequent, but less often in cool or moist conditions.

Winter · Indoors

Feed with high potash feed

During winter give the occasional feed with a houseplant fertiliser that is high in potash (potassium).

Where food elements are listed as three numeric values on label representing in order Nitrogen(N)-Phosphorus(P)-Potassium(K), choose one where potassium has a high value

Winter-Spring · Indoors

Water lightly in winter

The soil should remain just moist during the cold months when the plant is not in growth. Trickle a little water onto the soil surface every couple of weeks if the soil is dry. Do nothing if it is moist.

The roots remain active in winter and benefit from small amounts of moisture so they don't become completely desiccated.

Compost · Planting

Loam based houseplant compost for repotting

Buy container or house plant compost that is loam based if possible (i.e. is based on John Innes compost number 2 or 3. This contains more fertiliser and is better suited to established plants.

John Innes no. 1 has the lowest level of fertiliser and is used for seedlings and young plants, so is generally used where plants will be 'potted on' after a number of weeks.

Indoor temperature · Planting

5C minimum temperature

This plant requires a minimum temperature of 5 Centigrade.

Indoor plant · Planting

Position in indirect light indoors

Give the plant a position that is cool and light, and away from direct sunshine.