Grow Silver Falls Dichondra Indoors: Tips and Tricks

Have you ever seen a gorgeous cascading plant with beautiful silver leaves trailing down from a hanging container or spilling over the edge of a pot? Chances are, that plant was silver falls dichondra (Dichondra argentea). Known for its stunning foliage and easy-to-grow nature, silver falls dichondra is a popular choice for outdoor containers and hanging baskets. But did you know that it can also be grown indoors? In this article, we'll share some tips and tricks for growing silver falls dichondra indoors, so you can enjoy this stunning plant year-round.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in successfully growing silver falls dichondra indoors is choosing the right location. This plant loves bright, indirect light, so look for a spot near a window where it will receive plenty of natural light throughout the day. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the delicate leaves. If you don't have a bright enough spot inside, consider supplementing with artificial grow lights to provide the necessary light.

Planting and Soil Needs

When it comes to planting your silver falls dichondra, choose a container with good drainage holes to prevent water from pooling around the roots. The soil should be well-draining and high in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost. You can also add perlite or sand to improve drainage. Keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.

Watering and Humidity

One of the most important factors in successfully growing silver falls dichondra indoors is providing the right amount of water and humidity. This plant prefers consistently moist soil, so check the top inch of soil frequently and water as needed. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. In addition, silver falls dichondra appreciates high humidity levels, so consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant to increase moisture in the air.

Fertilizing and Pruning

To keep your silver falls dichondra healthy and thriving, it's important to fertilize regularly. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), following the package instructions for dosage. Be sure to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant. In addition, pruning is important to maintain the plant's shape and promote healthy growth. Pinch back the tips of the stems regularly to encourage bushiness, and trim any leggy or damaged stems to keep the plant looking its best.

Find a bright spot near a window for your silver falls dichondra.

Pest and Disease Control

Like all plants, silver falls dichondra is susceptible to pests and diseases. Some common pests include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew is a common disease that can affect silver falls dichondra, especially in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid getting the leaves wet when watering.

Propagation

If you want to expand your collection of silver falls dichondra, propagation is a great option. The easiest way to propagate this plant is through stem cuttings. Cut a stem that is several inches long, making sure it has at least a few leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in moist soil and cover with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. Keep the soil moist and wait for new growth to appear, then transplant the new plant into a larger container.

Growing silver falls dichondra indoors is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With the right growing conditions and a little care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty of this stunning plant year-round. Remember to choose a bright spot near a window, use well-draining soil, provide adequate water and humidity, fertilize and prune regularly, and watch out for pests and diseases. With these tips and tricks, you'll be on your way to growing a lush and vibrant silver falls dichondra in no time!

Silver falls dichondra, indoor gardening, houseplants, plant care, gardening tips