Why Your Copper Spoons Plant Is Growing Sideways

If you have a copper spoons plant (Kalanchoe orgyalis), you may have noticed that it has started to grow sideways rather than upright. This can be frustrating, especially if you have taken great care to provide your plant with optimal growing conditions. However, there are a few reasons why your copper spoons plant may be growing sideways, and some simple solutions that can help correct the problem.

Lack of Light

One of the most common reasons why copper spoons plants grow sideways is due to lack of adequate light. Copper spoons plants require bright, indirect light for optimal growth. If your plant is not receiving enough light, it will start to grow towards the light source in an attempt to soak up as much as possible. This can cause it to bend or lean to one side.

Solution: Move your copper spoons plant to a brighter location. Ensure that it receives at least six hours of bright indirect light per day. If you don’t have a suitable spot in your home, consider investing in a grow light.

Overwatering

Overwatering is another common cause of sideways growth in copper spoons plants. When the soil is too wet, the roots can become waterlogged and unable to absorb oxygen. This can cause the plant to weaken and lean to one side.

Solution: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. When you do water your plant, ensure that excess water is able to drain away from the roots.

Lack of Nutrients

Copper spoons plants require regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. If your plant is not receiving enough nutrients, it may start to grow sideways.

Solution: Feed your plant regularly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the instructions on the label carefully, as over-fertilization can also lead to problems.

Pests or Disease

Pests or disease can also cause sideways growth in copper spoons plants. Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects are all common pests that can weaken and distort the growth of your plant. Fungal diseases such as root rot can also cause the plant to lean or bend.

Solution: Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests or disease. If you notice any problems, take action immediately to prevent them from spreading. Remove affected leaves or stems, and treat with a suitable insecticide or fungicide.

Pot Bound

Finally, if your copper spoons plant has been in the same pot for a long time, it may start to become pot-bound. This means that the roots have grown so much that there is no more room for them to grow, which can cause the plant to become stunted and start growing sideways.

Solution: Repot your plant into a larger container with fresh soil. This will give the roots more room to grow and help promote healthy upright growth.

By following these simple solutions, you can help correct sideways growth in your copper spoons plant and promote healthy, upright growth.

FAQ

How often should I water my copper spoons plant?

Copper spoons plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Can I propagate my copper spoons plant?

Yes, copper spoons plants can be propagated by stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from a healthy stem and place it in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and in bright, indirect light until roots form (usually within a few weeks).

What kind of fertilizer should I use for my copper spoons plant?

Use a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the instructions on the label carefully, as over-fertilization can lead to problems.

Can I grow my copper spoons plant outdoors?

Copper spoons plants can be grown outdoors in warm climates (zones 10-11). They prefer well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. Protect from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.