Why Is My Cleopatra Plant Falling Over

Introduction

Cleopatra plant, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, is a gorgeous houseplant that is easy to grow and care for. It has heart-shaped leaves with golden or yellow variegation that add a touch of elegance to any room. However, sometimes you may notice that your Cleopatra plant is falling over despite your best efforts to keep it upright. In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why this happens and what you can do to fix it.

Reasons why Cleopatra plants fall over

Here are some common reasons why your Cleopatra plant might be falling over:

Lack of Support

Cleopatra plants are vine-like and need support to grow upright. If your plant doesn’t have anything to climb on, it will eventually fall over. You can use a trellis, moss pole, or even a stake to provide support for your plant.

Too much water

Overwatering is a common problem among houseplant enthusiasts. When you give your Cleopatra plant too much water, the soil becomes waterlogged and heavy, which can cause the plant to topple over. Make sure to let the soil dry out slightly between watering sessions.

Not enough light

Cleopatra plants prefer bright, indirect light. If your plant is not getting enough light, it will become weak and leggy, making it more likely to fall over. Move your plant to a brighter location if you notice it leaning towards the light source.

Pot-bound

If your Cleopatra plant has outgrown its pot, its root system may not be able to support its weight. Repotting your plant into a larger container with fresh soil can help prevent it from falling over.

How to Fix a Falling Cleopatra Plant

If you notice that your Cleopatra plant is falling over, here are some steps you can take to fix it:

Provide support

As mentioned earlier, Cleopatra plants need support to grow upright. You can use a trellis, moss pole, or stake to help your plant regain its balance. Simply attach the support to the base of your plant and guide the vines along it as they grow.

Repot your plant

If your Cleopatra plant is pot-bound, it’s time to give it a new home. Choose a pot that is one size larger than your current one and fill it with fresh potting soil. Gently loosen the roots of your plant and place it in the new pot. Fill in any gaps with soil and water thoroughly.

Adjust watering

Overwatering can cause your Cleopatra plant to fall over. Make sure to let the soil dry out slightly between watering sessions. Stick your finger in the soil up to the second knuckle – if it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, wait a few more days before checking again.

Move to a brighter location

If your Cleopatra plant is not getting enough light, move it to a brighter location. Make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.

FAQ

Can I propagate my Cleopatra plant?

Yes, you can propagate your Cleopatra plant by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in water or soil.

How often should I fertilize my Cleopatra plant?

You should fertilize your Cleopatra plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

Can I prune my Cleopatra plant?

Yes, you can prune your Cleopatra plant to control its size and shape. Use clean, sharp scissors to remove any dead or yellowing leaves, or to trim back any leggy stems.

In conclusion, a falling Cleopatra plant can be a sign of several issues, including lack of support, overwatering, not enough light, and being pot-bound. By providing support, repotting, adjusting watering, and moving to a brighter location, you can help your plant regain its balance and thrive.