The Ultimate Guide on How to Propagate Tradescantia Zebrina
Tradescantia Zebrina, often called the Wandering Jew, is a creeping plant cherished worldwide for its vibrant purple leaves. The easy-care nature makes Tradescantia Zebrina perfect for beginners in indoor gardening, flourishing year-round with little attention. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need about Tradescantia Zebrina propagation. Let’s check it now.
Preliminary Preparation of Tradescantia Zebrina Propagation
To propagate tradescantia zebrina, you'll need a scissor or pruner for cuttings, optional rooting hormone, small pots or containers, and potting mix or water for rooting. These tools ensure a smooth propagation process.
The best time to propagate Tradescantia Zebrina is during its active growing seasons—Spring and Summer. During these months, the plant is more likely to root quickly and thrive.
How to Propagate Wandering Jew: Soil or Water
Tradescantia Zebrina can be propagated in two main ways: Water Propagation and Soil Propagation. Both methods are effective.
Step1: Stem Cutting
Whether hydroponically or soil-grown, the first step is to take a stem cutting. Success begins with selecting a healthy, mature branch. Look for vibrant, sturdy stems that are bright green or purple, and avoid any that are damaged, discoloured, or showing signs of poor health.
Once you’ve selected a suitable branch, use a scissor or pruner to make a clean cut just below a leaf node at a 45° angle. The leaf nodes are where the leaves meet the stem and where new branches grow. Each cutting should be approximately 3 to 6 inches long and have a few leaves still attached.
Remove the leaves from the lower two-thirds of the cutting to create space for new leaves and roots to grow. For an extra boost, you can optionally dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root development, though this step is optional.
Step2: Water Propagation
- Place the prepared stem in a small container filled with water, ensuring the node is submerged.
- Place the container in a bright, indirect light location.
- Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
- In 1-2 weeks, roots will start to form. Once they reach 3 to 4 inches, transplant the cutting into pots.
Step2 (Alternative): Soil Propagation
- Dip the prepared stem end in the rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant the stem in pots with a well-drained growing medium to a depth of at least 3 to 4 inches.
- Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light and keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid overwatering.
Step3: Transplanting
If you grow the sprigs hydroponically in a clear vase, you can easily watch the roots develop, and they’re usually ready for transplanting into a pot within two weeks. If you grow them in soil, gently tug the branch once new leaves start appearing at the top. If it stays firm, the roots have been established, and the plant is ready to be transplanted into a new pot.
How to Care of Tradescantia Zebrina
The adaptability and resilience of Wandering Jew make it perfect for new indoor gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, fast-growing option. Let's explore the conditions for Tradescantia Zebrina care.
Light
Place your plants in a location with bright, indirect light to promote healthy growth. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the delicate leaves, causing them to dry out or develop brown spots. For indoor cultivation, you can apply LED grow lights whenever it’s lacking adequate sunlight.
Temperature and Humidity
Tradescantia Zebrina thrives between 60-75°F (15-24°C). If outdoor temperatures drop below 60°F, bring container plants indoors. The ideal humidity for Wandering Jew plants is around 70%. You can boost humidity by using a plant humidifier or placing a tray with water and pebbles nearby.
Water
Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid letting it become waterlogged to prevent root rot. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings for best results. If your plants are growing in a hydroponic system, closely monitor both the water levels and quality to ensure the plant remains healthy.
Fertilizer
For optimal growth, apply a water-soluble fertilizer for both root and foliar feeding every 15 days. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive nutrients can cause the leaves to lose their variegation and negatively impact the plant’s health.
Pruning
Wandering Jew plants generally do not require pruning. However, pruning becomes necessary in two situations: to remove dead foliage and to manage the plant's shape and growth.
To remove dead or yellowing leaves, pinch them off, making sure to remove the leaf stalk from the main stem. For shaping and managing growth, use sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors to cut stems to the desired length, making cuts at an angle between leaf nodes.
FAQs about Tradescantia Zebrina Propagation
- How to make Wandering Jew bushy?
Simply trim the stems and pinch off the tips. This will encourage the Tradescantia Zebrina plant to grow bushier by producing two new shoots just below where it was pinched.
- Can Wandering Jew live in water forever?
No, Tradescantia zebrina can't survive in water indefinitely. While they can be grown in water for a few months to develop roots, it’s not advisable to keep them in water long-term.
- Why is my Wandering Jew so leggy?
Tradescantia Zebrina is an easy-to-care-for houseplant. However, if there is not enough light, this plant may become branchy or stalky and require aggressive pruning.
