Why Your Creeping Jew Plant Is Growing Sideways

Creeping Jew plants are a popular houseplant due to their beautiful, trailing vines and low maintenance requirements. However, it’s not uncommon for these plants to start growing sideways, which can be frustrating for plant owners. In this article, we’ll explore some reasons why your creeping jew plant might be growing sideways and what you can do to fix the issue.

Lack of Light

One of the most common reasons for a creeping jew plant to grow sideways is due to a lack of light. These plants require bright, indirect sunlight to thrive, and if they aren’t receiving enough light from one direction, they’ll start to grow towards the light source. This can result in the plant growing sideways instead of upright.

To fix this issue, consider moving your creeping jew plant to a brighter location or adding supplemental lighting to the area where it’s currently located. A grow light can be an excellent option for providing additional light to your plant.

Improper Watering

Another reason why your creeping jew plant might be growing sideways is due to improper watering. These plants prefer consistently moist soil but can’t tolerate sitting in water for long periods. If the soil is too wet, the roots may start to rot, causing the plant to lean or grow sideways.

To fix this issue, make sure you’re watering your creeping jew plant correctly. Water thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Additionally, make sure your pot has proper drainage so excess water can drain away from the roots.

Root Bound

Creeping Jew plants can quickly become root-bound, meaning their roots have outgrown their current container. When this happens, the roots have nowhere else to go but outwards, causing the plant to grow sideways instead of upright.

To fix this issue, consider repotting your creeping jew plant into a larger container with fresh soil. This will provide more space for the roots to grow, allowing the plant to grow upright once again.

Pests or Diseases

Pests or diseases can also cause your creeping jew plant to grow sideways. If your plant is infested with pests like spider mites or mealybugs or has contracted a disease like root rot, it may start to lean or grow sideways as a result of the damage.

To fix this issue, take steps to eliminate the pests or disease affecting your plant. This may involve treating the plant with insecticidal soap or fungicide, or in severe cases, removing and disposing of the affected plant parts.

FAQ

Can a creeping jew plant recover from growing sideways?

Yes, a creeping jew plant can recover from growing sideways if the underlying issue causing the problem is addressed. Providing adequate light, proper watering, repotting into a larger container, and eliminating pests or diseases can all help the plant return to an upright growth pattern.

Can I train my creeping jew plant to grow upwards instead of sideways?

Yes, you can encourage your creeping jew plant to grow upright by providing support for the vines. This can be done using a trellis or by attaching the vines to a stake with ties or clips. Over time, the plant should start growing upwards towards the light source instead of sideways.

How often should I water my creeping jew plant?

Creeping Jew plants prefer consistently moist soil but don’t like sitting in water for long periods. Water thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The frequency of watering will depend on factors like environmental conditions and pot size but aim to water once a week and adjust as needed.

In conclusion, there are several reasons why your creeping jew plant might be growing sideways, including lack of light, improper watering, being root-bound, or pests and diseases. By addressing these issues and providing proper care, you can help your plant return to an upright growth pattern and thrive in your home.