Hoya (Hoya carnosa) - Complete Care Guide

roton (Codiaeum variegatum) plant

Hoya (Hoya carnosa)

Hoya, also known as the wax plant, is a low-maintenance, flowering plant that thrives in well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to care for a Hoya:

Potting:

  1. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the plant's current container, with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
  2. Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for tropical plants like Hoya.
  3. Gently remove the plant from its current container, taking care not to damage the roots.
  4. Place the plant in the new pot, making sure the crown (where the leaves meet the stem) is above the soil level.
  5. Fill in the gaps with potting mix, gently firming it around the roots.

Placement:

Place the Hoya in a bright, indirectly lit area, such as an east- or west-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to become scorched. Hoya can also thrive in low-light conditions, but it may not produce as many flowers.

Feeding:

  1. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20) at half the recommended strength.
  2. Feed the plant once a month, except during the winter months when it's dormant.
  3. You can also use a fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants, which may contain additional micronutrients.

Watering:

  1. Water the plant from the bottom by placing the pot in a saucer of water and letting it absorb the water for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water.
  3. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, usually every 7-10 days in the spring and summer, and less often in the fall and winter.

Diseases:

Hoya is susceptible to the following diseases:

Root rot: caused by overwatering, which can be treated by repotting the plant in fresh, well-draining soil and reducing watering frequency. Leaf spot: caused by fungal infections, which can be treated by removing affected leaves and treating the plant with a fungicide. Mealybugs: caused by insect infestations, which can be treated by gently removing the bugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Toxicity:

Hoya is toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The plant contains a toxic compound called lactone, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in humans and pets.

Additional Tips:

Keep the temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) to promote healthy growth. Humidity levels should be around 50-60% to prevent leaf drop. Prune the plant regularly to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Hoya can be trained to climb up a trellis or left to trail down.