How to Grow Eternity Plant Outdoors

The Eternity plant, scientifically known as Gynura Procumbens, is a popular medicinal herb that is native to Southeast Asia. It is commonly grown in households as a houseplant, but it can also be grown outdoors. The plant has several health benefits and is used for various purposes, including reducing cholesterol levels, treating diabetes, and boosting the immune system. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to grow Eternity plant outdoors.

Choosing the Location

The first step in growing Eternity plant outdoors is choosing the right location. The plant requires a warm and humid environment with plenty of sunlight. Therefore, it is essential to choose a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Additionally, the site should be well-draining to avoid waterlogging.

Soil Preparation

Once you have chosen the location, the next step is preparing the soil. Eternity plants thrive in fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. You can prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility. Additionally, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Planting

After preparing the soil, it’s time to plant your Eternity plant. You can either start with seeds or cuttings. If you opt for cuttings, select a healthy stem from an existing plant and cut it just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the stem in rooting hormone before planting it in the soil.

Alternatively, you can purchase seedlings from your local nursery or online store. Dig a hole in the prepared soil and place the seedling into it. Ensure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.

Watering

Watering is an essential aspect of growing Eternity plants. The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.

Maintenance

Eternity plants require minimal maintenance once established. However, you need to prune the plant regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Additionally, apply a slow-release fertilizer every six months to provide essential nutrients.

Harvesting

You can start harvesting your Eternity plant when it reaches maturity, which is usually between six to eight weeks after planting. The plant is harvested by cutting off the leaves and young shoots with a sharp knife or scissors. You can use the leaves fresh or dry them for later use.

FAQ

Is Eternity plant easy to grow?

Yes, Eternity plant is easy to grow both indoors and outdoors. It requires minimal maintenance and can thrive in a wide range of conditions.

Can I grow Eternity plant in a pot?

Yes, you can grow Eternity plant in a pot as long as it has good drainage and receives enough sunlight.

How often should I water my Eternity plant?

Water your Eternity plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.

What are the health benefits of Eternity plant?

Eternity plant has several health benefits, including reducing cholesterol levels, treating diabetes, and boosting the immune system.

In conclusion, growing Eternity plant outdoors is an easy and rewarding experience. With proper location, soil preparation, planting, watering, and maintenance, you can have a healthy and productive plant that provides numerous health benefits.