Tradescantia Zebrina

Tradescantia Zebrina Soil

Tradescantia Zebrina will do well if grown in an airy, well-draining soil mix. You may create your own perfect mix by combining compost, commercial potting soil, and coarse sand at a 1:1:1 ratio. Ensure that you select a container with ample drainage holes. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Fertilizer

Tradescantia Zebrina should be fed by a balanced, liquid fertilizer monthly during the warm growing season. Fertilizer may be diluted to half-strength. Ensure that you follow all label instructions. Do not feed your Wandering Jew in late fall or winter. Overfertilization may lead to permanent damage from chemical burn. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Watering

Tradescantia Zebrina prefers to be consistently moist but not oversaturated with water. When the top 2-3 inches of soil has become dry, it is time to rewater. Depending on growing conditions, you will likely need to water your plant once a week during the warm growing months. Watering frequency may be reduced in winter. Ensure you do not allow your plant to sit in standing water within the plant container’s drainage tray. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Light Requirements

Tradescantia Zebrina will tolerate lower light conditions. However, this will lead to foliage fading. Therefore, your Wandering Jew plant will do best if kept in bright indirect light. Do not expose your Tradescantia zebrina to too intense of direct sunlight, as this may lead to foliage scorching. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Temperature & Humidity

Tradescantia Zebrina will do best if kept in a warm environment. Indoor temperatures between 50-85 degrees Fahrenheit will be perfect for your plant. Avoid exposing your plant to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which may lead to permanent damage. While your Wandering Jew will benefit from additional humidity, it does not require above-average humidity to thrive. However, you should keep your plant away from large fluctuations in temperature. Do not place your plant next to heaters, vents, AC units, or drafts. You may boost your Tradescantia zebrina’s growth by installing a pebble tray or a humidifier. 

Repotting Tradescantia Zebrina

Tradescantia Zebrina will need to be repotted every 1-2 years or whenever roots are seen poking out of its container’s drainage holes. Select a container that is 1-2 inches larger than the previous one. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Maintenance & Pruning

Tradescantia Zebrina does not require much pruning. You may keep back the size of your plant or promote bushier growth by pinching off stem tips. Periodically remove any dead, diseased, or discolored foliage and stems. Sap excreted from the Wandering Jew can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals, so glove-wearing is recommended. When using pruning shears, ensure that they are clean to prohibit the transfer of disease. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Propagation

Propagation of Tradescantia Zebrina is easy and may be done through stem cuttings. To propagate, take a cutting that is 4-6 inches long. Place the cutting into soil and water thoroughly. Next, place the cutting into indirect light and keep it moist. Roots should form within two months. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Toxicity

Toxicity to Humans

Tradescantia Zebrina is considered toxic to humans and should not be consumed. As its saps causes contact dermatitis to some, it is recommended to wear gloves when handling this plant. Keep your Tradescantia Zebrina out of reach of children and babies. 

Toxicity to Cats & Dogs

The Wandering Jew plant is considered toxic to pets and should be kept out of their reach. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Problems

Tradescantia Zebrina Leaves Turning Yellow

When it comes to yellowing foliage of your Tradescantia Zebrina, it may be due to overwatering, lack of sunlight, or temperature fluctuations. Do not allow your plant to sit in standing water within the plant container’s drainage tray. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Leaves Turning Brown

When the foliage of your Tradescantia Zebrina turns brown, it is typically due to underwatering or too much direct sunlight. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Diseases

Although Tradescantia Zebrina is considered primarily disease resistant, they are still susceptible to issues related to overwatering, such as root rot. Therefore, ensure that you do not overwater your plant. 

Tradescantia Zebrina Pests

Tradescantia Zebrina may become susceptible to common indoor houseplant pests such as aphids, scale, spider mites, and more. Upon identification of an infestation, isolate your plant, and treat it with a pesticide such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.