piggyback plant

The piggyback plant requires consistent moisture in the soil, so it should be watered thoroughly about once a week. To do this, make sure to use lukewarm water, and water until it begins to drain from the base of the pot. Make sure the potting soil remains moist, but not soggy. During periods of extreme heat or drought, you may have to water more frequently.

Piggyback plants (Tolmiea menziesii) prefer direct sunlight for at least a few hours per day, ideally in the morning or during the afternoon hours. Direct sunlight helps them thrive and will keep their foliage looking its best. However, for plants grown indoors, it may be necessary to provide a minimum of 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to maintain good growth. In shady outdoor spots, piggyback plants may need supplemental lighting, such as a grow light or fluorescent bulbs, to make up for lack of sun.

Piggyback plant should be pruned regularly in order to encourage new growth. Light pruning should be done in late spring as new growth appears. This should take off any wilted, damaged, or dead outer leaves and stems. To keep the plant in a manageable size, stems may need to be cut back to a few inches in late spring. Heavy pruning can also be done in late summer or early fall every other year, which will encourage new growth and a fuller, more attractive plant. As with most garden plants, remove any dead, wilted, or overgrown branches or stems to improve overall shape and create a more open, healthy plant.