Rhipsalis pilocarpa

Spring-Autumn · Indoors

Feed a general fertiliser

Give a general purpose feed two or three times during the growing season, preferably not within a month of its end so the plant isn't encouraged to make fresh young growth.

Where food elements are listed as three numeric values on the label representing in order Nitrogen(N)-Phosphorus(P)-Potassium(K), with percentage values for each, choose one where the values are more or less equal.

Spring-Autumn · Indoors

Water houseplant when dry

Let the soil dry between waterings and then water thoroughly. Don't leave the plant standing in water, and try to avoid splashing the foliage on hot sunny days or it could cause the leaves to burn.

Spring-Winter · Indoors

Mist the plant daily

Soft or rain water is preferred as it doesn't mark the foliage. Don't mist when the plant is in sunshine or the foliage could be scorched.

Mist the plant daily.

Spring-Summer · Outdoors

Feed a general fertiliser

Give a standard houseplant feed several times while in growth.

Where food elements are listed as three numeric values on the label representing in order Nitrogen(N)-Phosphorus(P)-Potassium(K), with percentage values for each, choose one where the values are more or less equal.

Spring-Autumn · Outdoors

Water in dry periods

Established plants in the ground can cope with 7-10 days of dryness, and shrubs often manage 2 to 3 weeks. Water one section of the garden thoroughly each day rather than a little everywhere. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather.

Spring · Planting

Divide in early spring if too big

The plant can be divided though it resents disturbance and this is not always successful. This may involve physically dividing the clump in two. The new plants can be grown in a container or planted in the ground.

Compost · Planting

Bromeliad (epiphytic) compost for repotting

This is for bromeliads that are epiphytic in character, i.e. they grow on other plants or man-man structures. Their roots are used for clinging not absorption. Standard mixes are available or substitute with an orchid compost with a few bark chips.

If making one's own compost use a mix with equal parts of sphagnum moss peat (or its equivalent), fine bark chips and fine (horticultural) grit.

Indoor temperature · Planting

15C minimum temperature

This plant requires a minimum temperature of 15 Centigrade.

Indoor plant · Planting

Position in moderate light / some shade

This plant is happiest in a position with part or light shade, near a sunless window or some distance away from a sunny or bright window. It should not be exposed to full sunlight.