Duck Plant Care

Duck plants, also known as oxalis triangularis, are a popular houseplant that is easy to care for. They feature beautiful foliage and bright pink flowers, which make them an attractive addition to any home. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about duck plant care, including the best fertilizer, soil, and light conditions for successful growth.

Best Fertilizer for Duck Plants

Duck plants don’t require much fertilizer, but they do benefit from regular applications of balanced liquid fertilizer. A 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 mixture applied every two weeks during the growing season will help keep your duck plant healthy and happy.

Best Soil for Duck Plants

Duck plants prefer a well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. A quality peat-based potting soil mixed with perlite or vermiculite will provide the drainage and aeration your duck plant needs.

Different Types of Duck Plants

There are several different varieties of duck plants available. The most common are Purple Prince, Red Prince, and Pink Prince. Each variety has its own unique characteristics, such as foliage color and flower size.

What are some other names Duck Plants

In addition to being known as duck plants, oxalis triangularis are also known as lucky clover, purple shamrock, false shamrock, and love plant.

Growth Rate of Duck Plants

Duck plants grow slowly but steadily, reaching heights of up to 12 inches at maturity. They can be kept smaller with regular pruning.

How Much Light Do Duck Plants Need?

Duck plants prefer bright, indirect light. They do not tolerate direct sunlight and should be kept out of direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.

How Often to Water Duck Plants

Water your duck plant when the top inch of soil is dry. Allow the water to drain through the pot before discarding any excess water.

How to Propagate Duck Plants

Propagating duck plants is easy and can be done using stem cuttings with at least two leaves attached. Place the cuttings in moist potting soil and mist regularly until new growth appears.

How to Prune Duck Plants

Pruning helps keep your duck plant looking neat and tidy and encourages new growth. Prune your duck plant regularly throughout the growing season by trimming back stems with sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Humidity Conditions for Duck Plants

Duck plants prefer humid conditions, so it’s a good idea to mist them regularly or place them on a tray of wet pebbles to increase humidity around the plant.

Ideal Pot Size for Duck Plants

A pot size of about 6 inches in diameter is ideal for duck plants since it allows enough room for root growth without being too large for the plant to support itself comfortably.

Ideal Temperature Conditions for Duck Plants

Duck plants prefer temperatures between 65°F and 75°F during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night (55°F-65°F). Keep your duck plant away from drafts and air conditioning vents to maintain consistent temperatures.

Main Uses of Duck Plants

In addition to being attractive houseplants, duck plants can also be used as ground covers or as additions to container gardens. They can even be potted in hanging baskets or planted directly in the ground in warmer climates.

Repotting Tips for Duck Plants

Repot your duck plant every two years using fresh potting soil and a slightly larger pot size than before. Be sure not to overwater when repotting; allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Duck Plants Edible?

No, duck plants are not edible and should not be consumed by humans or animals.

Are Duck Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs?

Yes, duck plants are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other stomach discomfort. Keep them out of reach of pets at all times.

Do Duck Plants Prefer To Grow Indoors Or Outside?

Duck plants can be grown indoors or outdoors in warmer climates (Zone 9-11). They prefer bright indirect light indoors or partial shade outdoors.

Are Duck Plants Poisonous?

Yes, duck plants are poisonous if ingested and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other stomach discomfort in humans and animals alike.