How to Grow Variegated Prayer Plant Outdoors

The variegated prayer plant, also known as Maranta leuconeura, is a beautiful tropical plant that is native to the rainforests of Brazil. It gets its name from the way its leaves fold up at night, resembling a pair of praying hands. While this plant is typically grown indoors as a houseplant, it is also possible to grow it outdoors in certain regions. In this article, we will discuss the necessary steps to successfully grow variegated prayer plants outdoors.

Choose the Right Location

Before planting your variegated prayer plant outdoors, it is important to choose the right location. This plant thrives in warm and humid conditions, so it is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-12. If you live in a cooler climate, you may need to keep your variegated prayer plant indoors or provide it with extra protection during the colder months.

Find a spot in your garden that receives partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves of the variegated prayer plant, so it is important to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day. Morning or late afternoon sun is ideal for this plant.

Prepare the Soil

Variegated prayer plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage. This will help create a favorable environment for the plant’s roots to grow and thrive.

Planting and Watering

To plant your variegated prayer plant outdoors, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole, making sure that it sits at the same depth as it was in its original container. Backfill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the base of the plant.

After planting, water the variegated prayer plant thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. This plant prefers a consistently moist environment, so be sure to check the soil moisture regularly and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Provide Adequate Humidity

One of the challenges of growing variegated prayer plants outdoors is maintaining adequate humidity levels. These plants thrive in humid conditions, so it is important to provide them with enough moisture in the air. You can achieve this by misting the leaves of the plant with water regularly or placing a tray of water near the plant to increase humidity through evaporation.

Another option is to group your variegated prayer plant with other plants that require high humidity. This will create a microclimate that helps retain moisture in the air surrounding the plants.

Fertilizing and Pruning

To promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage, fertilize your variegated prayer plant regularly during the growing season. Choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and apply it according to the package instructions.

Pruning is also an essential part of caring for variegated prayer plants. Regularly remove any yellow or dead leaves to maintain a neat appearance and prevent disease. You can also pinch back the stems to encourage bushier growth.

Protect from Extreme Temperatures

While variegated prayer plants can tolerate some temperature fluctuations, they are sensitive to extreme cold or heat. If you live in an area where temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), it is advisable to bring your variegated prayer plant indoors during the colder months or provide it with protection, such as covering it with a frost cloth.

Similarly, if you live in an area where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F (32°C), it is important to provide shade and extra moisture to prevent heat stress.

Watch for Pests and Diseases

Like any other plant, variegated prayer plants can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Inspect the leaves regularly for signs of infestation, and treat any pest problems promptly.

Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so it is important to avoid waterlogged conditions. Ensure that the soil has good drainage and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Conclusion

Growing variegated prayer plants outdoors can be a rewarding experience for any plant enthusiast. By choosing the right location, preparing the soil, providing adequate humidity, fertilizing and pruning regularly, protecting from extreme temperatures, and watching for pests and diseases, you can successfully grow these beautiful tropical plants in your outdoor garden. With proper care and attention, your variegated prayer plant will thrive and add a touch of tropical beauty to your outdoor space.