Aluminum Plant

Aluminum Plant Soil

For best Aluminum Plant care, this plant likes to be grown in a well-draining growing medium that is rich in organic matter and has good drainage. To aid in a well-draining soil, a sandy soil mixture would be beneficial or adding in some perlite. A commercial quality standard potting mix will work perfectly for this plant. 

Aluminum Plant Fertilizer

The Pilea Cadierei will benefit from a regular monthly feeding during the warm growing season of spring and summer. Utilize a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and ensure that you follow all label instructions. Do not feed during the winter, as it is not needed, and overfertilizing may cause damage to the plant. 

Aluminum Plant Watering

During the growing season of spring and summer, Pilea Cadierei will like to remain evenly and consistently moist but not oversaturated. Compared to other houseplants, the Aluminum Plant often requires more water. You should rewater your aluminum plant after the top quarter inch of soil has dried. However, during the fall and winter, watering frequency should be reduced. This plant also enjoys being occasionally misted.

Aluminum Plant Light Requirements

The Aluminum Plant likes to receive bright indirect sunlight, such as from an eastern or western window. This plant should receive no less than four hours of sunlight each day. However, it is essential to note that this Pilea should not be kept in direct sun as too much direct sunlight will lead to sunburn and browning of the leaves. 

Aluminum Plant Temperature & Humidity

When grown as an indoor houseplant, the Aluminum Plant will do just fine when grown under average household temperatures with ideal temperatures being 70-75F. However, Pilea Cadierei does not enjoy large temperature fluctuations and should not be kept near air vents, heaters, cold windows, AC units, or drafts. While this plant will tolerate average household humidity, to encourage lush foliar growth, your plant will benefit from high humidity. To provide more humidity to your plant try misting, adding a pebble tray, a humidifier, or grow it in a well-lit bathroom.

Repotting Aluminum Plant

Repotting of your Aluminum Plant should be done in early spring before rapid new growth. Select a container that is 1” larger than the previous container, repot, refresh with new soil, tamp, and water thoroughly. Your newly potted plant should be placed in indirect light. Potting should be done annually or whenever roots are seen sticking out of drainage holes. 

Aluminum Plant Maintenance & Pruning

Leggy growth should be pinched back periodically to encourage a bushier, rounded growth formation. Consistent rotation of the plant’s container towards the source of sunlight should encourage uniform growth. Discolored, diseased, or dead leaves may be removed periodically as needed. 

Aluminum Plant Propagation

The Aluminum Plant is easily propagated from stem tip cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken in early spring. Select new, healthy stem tips to clip for your cuttings. After taking your cutting(s), remove lower leaves from the stem, except the top couple of leaves. Insert the cutting into fresh potting soil and water thoroughly. It is essential that you keep your cuttings moist until rooted. A plastic bag may be placed over the container to trap in humidity and moisture and encourage rooting. 

Aluminum Plant Toxicity

Considered non-toxic to humans and pets, the Aluminum Plant is pet-friendly and kid-friendly.

Toxicity to Humans

Pilea Cadierei is considered non-toxic to humans. However, they should not be ingested. 

Toxicity to Cats & Dogs

Luckily, Pilea Cadierei is considered non-toxic to pets and is safe for them to be around. 

Aluminum Plant Problems

Aluminum Plant Leaves Turning Yellow

When foliage of the Watermelon Pilea turns yellow, it is often due to overwatering or improper lighting.

Aluminum Plant Leaves Turning Brown

Browning of the leaves may be due to overwatering, overexposure to sun, or to disease issues. 

Aluminum Plant Diseases

Pilea Plants are known to be susceptible to several plant diseases such as leaf spot, root rot, anthracnose, and blights. Luckily, many of these diseases may be prevented by ensuring that you are not overwatering your plant. However, in the event that your Aluminum Plant has been affected by any of these plant diseases, you may treat it with a fungicide. 

Aluminum Plant Pests

The largest pest problems the Aluminum Plant will face is from mealybugs and spider mites. These may be treated with a pesticide such as insecticidal soap or neem oil. 

FAQ

Why Is It Called Aluminum Plant?

Pilea Cadierei was given the name, Aluminum Plant because the plant looks like it was painted with aluminum paint.

Can Aluminum Plant Grow In Water?

When you take cuttings off the Aluminum plant and place them in water for propagation, you want to wait until the roots have been established before planting in soil. They can grow in water just fine and for a long time.