Anyone who wants to start growing this plant, however, always has doubts about how to care for desert rose. It has conquered people worldwide with its beautiful and unique appearance.
Originally from Africa, the desert rose is a miniature tree with pink flowers that may or may not be accompanied by white – there are also versions of white flowers with pink edges.
In general, desert rose blooms throughout the year, but spring is when they are at their most lush.
I have put together this complete content with the main tips on caring for a desert rose, with guidelines for choosing the vase, substrate, watering frequency, and much more!
I will start with the desert rose environment.
Where to grow the desert rose
Environment matters in the growth of the desert rose. It needs a warmer environment. As its name implies (desert plant), it manages to adapt very well to low humidity conditions. Whereby the minimum temperature of the place is 10ºC. However, leaving desert rose near an air conditioner is not good.
Desert rose Adaptation
When you buy a desert rose, it is normal for the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. This process occurs when the plant changes location drastically. It is not necessary to change the pot or fertilize the desert rose to adapt it; wait for the adaptation period to end and the plant to begin growing again.
Desert rose fertilization
Fertilizing is critical for the desert rose because it needs a high-draining pot, which causes certain types of nutrients to be lost.
So, it will be best if you provide fertilizer frequently so that your plant develops well. Don’t apply fertilizers to desert rose when the substrate is completely dry or to the roots.
Amount of Sunlight on Desert Rose
A good amount of sunlight on desert rose is essential. This is because it is among the plants that need a lot of direct sun to develop fully. Lack of enough sunlight on desert rose can make your plant under-develop, growing to the side where it’s looking for more light. So, it will be best if you offer at least 6 hours of sun a day.
How to care for a Desert rose with substrate
When caring for desert rose, the ideal substrate for desert rose mixes prepared soil with coarse sand and earthworm humus. This is because, as I said, the desert rose is an African plant, used to the semi-arid climate and high temperatures. The ratio is 1/3 prepared soil and 2/3.
How to care for desert rose in Vase
Since the desert rose doesn’t like soggy soil, but like water, you need vase for planting desert rose. The best tip is to grow the desert rose in pots with high drainage power. It will be best if you cover the pot with plastic mesh and stones, preventing the roots from coming out of the holes in the pot.
How to care for desert rose with cultivation
You can use seeds or cuttings to grow desert rose. You must start with seeds if you want a plant with thick trunks.
One method for making the base of the stem more distinct is to lift the plant slightly with each replanting, leaving the upper part of the roots exposed. The tip is also known as how to make a desert rose seedling.
Another method of caring for desert rose is with water.
How to care for desert rose with watering
Watering is one of the essential tips for caring for desert rose. Kindy note that caring for desert rose with watering should be done sparingly. That is by keeping the sand moist always, not soggy. It will be best if you water only when the soil or sand dries up on top of the pot. Use neutral water when watering desert rose; acidic water causes root rot.
Avoid excess water because it causes rot in the roots and gradually kills your plant.
How to Save Desert Rose from rot
Below are what to do to save desert rose that has rotted:
- Replant the bulb in a pot and leave it in the shade for another 3 or 4 days. Place the plant in the sun gradually and watch its growth. The leaves may fall off during the process.
- Remove the plant from the ground, use a spoon to clean the roots, and discard any rotten parts. Place the desert rose in a shady location until the cuts heal (around 5 to 6 days).
You can save a dying desert rose from rot with the tips above.
Desert rose flowering
Desert rose flower occurs typically in spring, although there is a possibility of successive flowering in summer and autumn. The plants can flower from 15cm in height. Oleander
Desert rose flowers are tubular, have five petals, and resemble other plants of the same family like Oleander.
FAQS
Can I grow desert rose indoors?
Yes, growing desert rose plant indoors is possible as long you choose the place well. The edge of a window is an excellent place to grow desert roses indoors because it will receive plenty of heat and sunlight.
When to Replant desert rose?
You can replant desert roses every two or three years. Formation pruning must be done with extreme caution. This is because they can cause unnatural deformities and scars on plants.
How to know the color of a desert rose
If you want a desert rose in a particular color, such as black, you should know where it comes from. There is a better chance of getting the desired color if it was grown in a greenhouse and pollinated by two identical plants rather than insects. This is because the growing medium can interfere with the color of the flower.
How to Care for a Pest-Free Desert Rose
Due to excess water, the most common attack by fungi and bacteria in the desert rose. To avoid cochineal, ensure that you fertilize with calcium. The desert rose is most commonly attacked by bacteria and fungi caused by excess water. Plants with soft stems, dry leaves, and dark roots exhibit this.
Care in handling the desert rose
Always wear gloves when handling your plant because desert rose is a toxic plant. Native Africans have used its sap as a poison in spears and arrows for centuries. However, the poison of desert rose harms pets and children.
Now that you know how to care for a desert rose, you can also check out plants that like shade or sun.
Read also: Decorative Vases for Living Room
