Aluminum Plant Care Guide
Background
Also known as the Pilea Cadierei, this plant is easily recognizable by its shiny, fleshy leaves. This easy to take care of Aluminum plant will brighten up any space with its bright green leaves. For optimal success provide your aluminum plant with maximum light to maintain its beautiful stature and shape.
Sunlight Requirements
Aluminum plants prefer to be in bright, indirect light for at least four hours each day. Make sure you place your plant near a window that receives partial light. If you are keeping your aluminum plant outdoors, make sure it is placed in an area that it will not get exposed to direct sunlight. Direct sunlight exposure for long periods of time can quickly cause damage to the plants leaves and overall health.
Humidity Requirements
Aluminum plants prefer to be in moderate to high humidity, at least at 50%. Use a pebble tray with some water or a humidifier to maintain its misty requirements. The soil needs to also be at a moist state and never allow it to dry out. If you notice your plant not getting enough humidity, consider investing in a humidifier to compensate for the low humidity levels. Another way you can provide humidity to your plant is by frequent misting.
Temperature Requirements
Aluminum plants have a small temperature range of 60-70 degrees. But Aluminum plants can still survive outside of this range but may hinder its growth. If you live in an area where temperatures drop below 50 degrees, consider bringing your plant in during the colder months. Never place your aluminum plant near open windows or air vents as drafts cause temperature fluctuations.
Watering Requirements
Aluminum plants prefer their soil to be moist. Depending on the time of year, aluminum plants will need to be watered more frequently. The general rule of thumb is to make sure to always keep the soil most and never allow it to dry out completely.
Soil Requirements
Aluminum plants thrive in well draining organic matter soil composed of sand, perlite, and peat moss. If you are looking for a more eco-friendly alternative to peat moss, consider using coco coir and coconut husk as these are sustainably farmed. Aluminum plants prefer a slightly acidic to neutral based soil.
Can I keep my aluminum plant indoors or outdoors?
Susceptible Diseases & Pests
Aluminum plants are susceptible to many pests and diseases, some of which include the following:
Root rot
Leaf spot
Anthracnose
Blights
Make sure to do weekly check in with your plants to ensure they are staying happy and healthy.
Propagation
When its time to prune your aluminum plant, its a great time to consider water propagation. Follow these simple steps to clone your favorite Pilea Cadierei.
Step One: Make sure that your cuttings have at least three inches. Make a cut with clean shears right below a node.
Step Two: Grab a mason jar or any container and fill it with clean water.
Step Three: Place the cuttings, node down into the water.
Step Four: Water your original aluminum plant to avoid shocking it.
Step Five: Over the next few weeks, change the water to prevent diseases.
Step Six: Magically watch your roots grow from the nodes and repot into a sandy loam potting mix.