How to Grow Creeping Jew Plant Outdoors

The creeping jew plant, also known as Tradescantia fluminensis, is a popular and easy-to-grow houseplant that can also be grown outdoors. The plant is native to South America and has striking green leaves with purple undersides. It is a great addition to any garden or patio and can even be used as ground cover. Here’s a guide on how to grow creeping jew plant outdoors.

Choosing the Right Location

The creeping jew plant loves bright, indirect sunlight, but can also tolerate some shade. It’s important to choose a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. When planting outside, make sure the area has well-draining soil and is not prone to flooding.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your creeping jew, prepare the soil by adding compost or organic matter. This will help improve soil fertility and drainage. The ideal pH range for creeping jew plants is between 5.5-7.0.

Planting the Creeping Jew Plant

The best time to plant creeping jew outdoors is during the spring or summer months when the soil has warmed up. Dig a hole in the soil that is slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen any tangled roots before placing it in the hole.

Make sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.

Watering and Fertilizing

Creeping jew plants prefer slightly moist soil, but do not like to be overwatered. Water your plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilize your plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.

Pruning and Propagation

Creeping jew plants can become quite leggy if not pruned regularly. To keep your plant full and bushy, pinch back the tips of the stems. This will encourage branching and new growth.

The creeping jew plant is also easy to propagate. Simply cut a stem from the plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in a glass of water. Once roots have formed, plant the stem in soil and care for it as you would a mature plant.

FAQ

How often should I water my creeping jew plant?

Creeping jew plants prefer slightly moist soil, but do not like to be overwatered. Water your plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can creeping jew plants be grown indoors?

Yes, creeping jew plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect sunlight.

How do I prune my creeping jew plant?

To keep your plant full and bushy, pinch back the tips of the stems. This will encourage branching and new growth.

Can creeping jew plants be used as ground cover?

Yes, creeping jew plants can be used as ground cover in areas with well-draining soil and partial shade.