How to Transplant Curly Lipstick Plant

Curly Lipstick Plant, also known as Aeschynanthus radicans, is an attractive indoor plant with curly, glossy, green leaves and bright red flowers. It’s a popular houseplant because of its ease of care and ability to thrive in low light conditions. One of the most common reasons for transplanting curly lipstick plants is to give them more space to grow and spread their roots. In this article, we’ll discuss the steps involved in transplanting your curly lipstick plant.

Step 1: Choose the Right Time

The best time to transplant your curly lipstick plant is during spring or early summer when it’s actively growing. During this time, the plant is better equipped to recover from the shock of being transplanted. Avoid transplanting during winter as the plant may not have enough energy to recover from the stress.

Step 2: Prepare the New Pot

Choose a pot that is at least two inches larger than the current pot. The new pot should have a drainage hole at the bottom to allow excess water to escape. Fill the new pot with well-draining soil, leaving a space at the top for the plant.

Step 3: Remove the Plant from Its Current Pot

Gently remove the plant from its current pot by tilting it on its side and tapping the bottom of the pot. If necessary, use a knife or scissors to loosen any roots that are stuck to the sides of the pot. Be careful not to damage the roots while removing them.

Step 4: Inspect and Prune Roots

Inspect the roots of your curly lipstick plant for any signs of damage, rot or disease. Cut off any damaged or rotten roots using a pair of clean scissors or pruning shears. Trim any long roots that are too large to fit into the new pot.

Step 5: Repot Your Curly Lipstick Plant

Place the plant in the new pot and fill in the spaces around it with soil. Gently pat down the soil to remove any air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Care for Your Transplanted Plant

After transplanting your curly lipstick plant, place it in a shady spot for a few days to allow it to recover from the shock. Once it has adjusted to its new pot, gradually increase the amount of light it receives.

Water your plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.

FAQ Section

How often should I transplant my curly lipstick plant?

You should transplant your curly lipstick plant every two years or when it outgrows its current pot.

How do I know if my curly lipstick plant needs to be repotted?

If you notice that roots are growing out of the bottom of the pot or if the plant is becoming too big for its current pot, it’s time to repot.

Can I use regular potting soil for my curly lipstick plant?

Yes, you can use regular potting soil for your curly lipstick plant as long as it’s well-draining and contains perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.

Can I propagate my curly lipstick plant after transplanting?

Yes, you can propagate your curly lipstick plant after transplanting by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or perlite.