Artillery Plant Care

Best Fertilizer for Artillery Plants

Artillery plants, also known as Pilea microphylla, are easy to care for and low maintenance plants that don’t need a lot of special fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 should be used every four to six weeks in the spring and summer months. It’s best to avoid fertilizer in the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.

Best Soil for Artillery Plants

The best soil for artillery plants should be light and well-draining, with plenty of organic material. A mix of two parts peat moss, two parts potting soil, and one part perlite or sand is ideal. You can also add some worm castings or compost to enrich the soil further.

Different Types of Artillery Plants

There are several varieties of artillery plants, including the common variety (Pilea microphylla) and the larger Pilea grandifolia. There is also a variegated variety of Pilea grandifolia with cream and green leaves.

What are some other names Artillery Plants?

Artillery plants are also known as gunpowder plant, artillery fern, or rockweed.

Growth Rate of Artillery Plants

Artillery plants grow quite slowly, so don’t expect them to reach their full size overnight. With good care and conditions, they can reach up to 8 inches tall and wide.

How Much Light Do Artillery Plants Need?

Artillery plants prefer bright, indirect light but too much direct sunlight can cause their leaves to scorch. If you’re growing your artillery plant indoors, place it near an east-facing window where it will get bright but filtered light throughout the day.

How Often to Water Artillery Plants

Artillery plants should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the summer months, you may need to water your plant more frequently than during the cooler months when growth slows down. Make sure not to let your plant dry out completely or sit in waterlogged soil as this can cause root rot.

How to Propagate Artillery Plants

Artillery plants are easy to propagate from stem cuttings that are placed in moist potting soil and kept warm and humid. You can also propagate them by division if you have a mature plant that needs to be repotted.

How to Prune Artillery Plants

To keep your artillery plant looking neat and tidy, prune away any dead or yellowing leaves as needed. This will also encourage new growth and help the plant stay healthy.

Humidity Conditions for Artillery Plants

Artillery plants prefer high humidity levels between 40% – 50%. If you live in a dry climate or have a dry home, consider misting your plant regularly or placing it on a humidity tray with pebbles and water underneath it.

Ideal Pot Size for Artillery Plants

The ideal pot size for an artillery plant is one that is slightly bigger than its current size so it has enough room to grow. A 6-inch pot is usually sufficient for most artillery plants.

Ideal Temperature Conditions for Artillery Plants

Artillery plants prefer temperatures between 65°F – 75°F (18°C – 24°C). They can tolerate lower temperatures but never let them drop below 55°F (13°C). Avoid exposing them to cold drafts from windows or doors as this can cause them damage.

Main Uses of Artillery Plants

Artillery plants are great for adding texture and color to living spaces in homes, offices, or gardens due to their small size and attractive foliage. They also make great gifts since they’re easy to care for.

Repotting Tips for Artillery Plants

When repotting an artillery plant, use a pot that is 1-3 inches bigger than its current size so it has enough room to grow. Make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom so any excess water can escape. Use a light and well-draining soil mix as described above and water your plant thoroughly after repotting it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Artillery Plants Edible?

No, artillery plants are not edible as they contain toxins that can make you ill if ingested.

Are Artillery Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs?

Yes, artillery plants are toxic if ingested by cats and dogs as they contain calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation in their mouths and throats if eaten.

Do Artillery Plants Prefer To Grow Indoors Or Outside?

Artillery plants prefer to grow indoors in bright but indirect light but can also be grown outside in partial shade during the summer months if temperatures are mild enough.

Are Artillery Plants Poisonous?

Yes, artillery plants contain toxins which can cause irritation if ingested by humans or animals so they should always be kept out of reach of children and pets.