Fittonia: Care and growing tips for a colorful mosaic plant
Fittonia, with its vibrant foliage and contrasting veins, is a popular houseplant that brings a splash of color and originality to your home. Its unique patterns and small size make it an ideal choice for beginners and graphic plant enthusiasts.
Interest in terrarium
Fittonia is particularly suited to terrariums, where its need for high humidity can be easily met. It thrives in a warm, humid environment, making it an excellent choice for tropical terrariums.
Exposure and temperature
- Light: Fittonia prefers bright but indirect light. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.
- Temperature: The ideal temperature for Fittonia is between 20°C and 27°C. It does not tolerate temperatures below 15°C.
Watering
- Humidity: Fittonia needs regular watering to keep the substrate constantly moist, but not soggy.
- Frequency: Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
- Water: Use room temperature, non-calcareous water to water your Fittonia.
Substrate
- Mix: Use a mixture of quality houseplant potting soil , perlite and sphagnum moss for optimal drainage.
- Acidity: A slightly acidic substrate is ideal for Fittonia.
Fertilizer
- Timing: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer every two weeks.
- Dosage: Dilute the fertilizer halfway to avoid burning the roots.
- Reduction: Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter.
Repotting
- Frequency: Repot the Fittonia every 1 to 2 years, in spring, in a pot slightly larger than the previous one.
- Potting Soil: Use fresh, well-drained potting soil for potting.
Multiplication
Fittonia is easily propagated by stem or leaf cuttings in spring and summer.
Mistakes to avoid
- Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Lack of light: A lack of light can weaken the plant and make its foliage dull.
- Too low temperatures: Too low temperatures can damage the plant.
- Drafts: Drafts can dry out the plant.
With its graphic foliage and bright colours, Fittonia is the ideal plant to bring a touch of dynamism and modernity to your interior. Let yourself be seduced by its unique beauty and ease of maintenance!
Additional Tips
- Humidity: To increase the ambient humidity, you can place a humidifier near your Fittonia or spray it regularly with non-calcareous water.
- Pruning: Pruning can be used to encourage bushier growth and to maintain the shape of the plant.