How Quickly Does Dew Plant Grow?

Dew plant, also known as Portulaca oleracea, is a succulent annual plant that is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is a popular plant for both ornamental and medicinal purposes. If you are planning to grow dew plant, you may be wondering how quickly it grows and what factors influence its growth rate. In this article, we will explore these questions in detail.

Factors That Influence Dew Plant Growth

Several factors can affect the growth rate of dew plant. Here are some of the most important ones:

Temperature

Dew plant grows best in warm temperatures between 75°F and 85°F. It can also tolerate high temperatures up to 100°F, but growth may be slower. Cooler temperatures below 60°F can slow down growth or even cause the plant to die.

Light

Dew plant requires full sunlight to thrive, but it can also tolerate partial shade. In areas with low light conditions, the plant may grow slower and produce smaller leaves and flowers.

Water

Dew plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and slow down growth. Underwatering can also be detrimental, causing the leaves to wilt and turn yellow.

Soil

Dew plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. It can grow in poor soil conditions but will produce fewer flowers and leaves.

Fertilizer

Dew plant does not require heavy fertilization but benefits from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer. Overfertilizing can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

How Quickly Does Dew Plant Grow?

Dew plant is a fast-growing annual that can reach maturity within a few weeks under optimal growing conditions. The exact growth rate depends on the factors mentioned above, as well as the cultivar and planting method.

In general, dew plant seeds germinate in 7-14 days and sprout within 3-4 weeks. Once the plant has established roots and leaves, it can grow up to 2 inches per week in height and spread up to 12 inches in diameter.

Dew plant typically blooms from mid-summer to early fall, producing colorful flowers in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white. The flowers only last for a day but are quickly replaced by new ones, ensuring a continuous display throughout the growing season.

Tips for Growing Dew Plant

If you want to grow dew plant successfully, here are some tips to follow:

• Start with good quality seeds or transplants from a reputable supplier.
• Choose a sunny, well-draining location with fertile soil.
• Water regularly but avoid overwatering or underwatering.
• Fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
• Pinch back the stems periodically to encourage bushier growth.
• Deadhead the spent flowers to promote more blooms.
• Watch out for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and slugs, and treat them promptly if detected.

FAQ

Is dew plant edible?

Yes, dew plant is commonly used as a leafy vegetable in many cultures, especially in Asia and Africa. The leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals and can be eaten raw or cooked.

How tall does dew plant grow?

Dew plant can grow up to 8 inches in height but usually stays around 4 inches tall.

Can dew plant survive winter?

Dew plant is an annual that dies off after the first frost. However, it can reseed itself if allowed to flower and produce seeds before dying.

Can dew plant be grown indoors?

Yes, dew plant can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location. It is best to use a well-draining potting mix and water sparingly to avoid root rot.

Does dew plant attract bees and butterflies?

Yes, dew plant flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. They are a great addition to any pollinator garden.