Why Your Million Hearts Plant Is Growing Sideways

If you have a million hearts plant (Dischidia nummularia) that is growing sideways instead of upward, you may be wondering what is causing this unusual growth pattern. While it may seem concerning at first, there are several reasons why your million hearts plant may be exhibiting this behavior. In this article, we will explore some of the potential causes and provide tips on how to fix the issue.

Lack of Adequate Light

One of the most common reasons for a million hearts plant to grow sideways is a lack of adequate light. These plants are native to tropical rainforests where they receive filtered sunlight through the dense canopy. When grown indoors, they require bright, indirect light to thrive.

If your million hearts plant is not receiving enough light, it will stretch out and grow sideways in an attempt to reach the nearest light source. This phenomenon is known as etiolation. To remedy this issue, try moving your plant to a brighter location or consider supplementing its light with artificial grow lights.

Improper Watering

Another factor that can contribute to sideways growth in million hearts plants is improper watering. These plants prefer slightly moist soil but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the plant to become stressed and exhibit abnormal growth patterns.

To ensure proper watering, allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Use well-draining soil and avoid keeping the plant in standing water. Additionally, make sure to adjust your watering routine according to the season and environmental conditions.

Lack of Support

Million hearts plants are climbing vines that naturally grow upwards by clinging onto trees or rocks with their aerial roots. When grown indoors without proper support, they may start growing sideways due to the lack of something to climb on.

To encourage upward growth, provide your million hearts plant with a support structure such as a trellis or moss pole. Gently guide the vines towards the support, and they will naturally attach themselves. This will help redirect the growth of your plant and prevent it from growing sideways.

Insufficient Nutrients

A lack of essential nutrients can also lead to abnormal growth patterns in million hearts plants. If your plant is not receiving adequate nutrition, it may struggle to grow upright and instead grow sideways as a result of weakened stems.

To ensure your plant is getting the necessary nutrients, consider fertilizing it regularly during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength and apply it according to the instructions on the packaging. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can cause more harm than good.

Pruning Neglect

Pruning is an essential aspect of maintaining healthy and well-shaped million hearts plants. If you neglect to prune your plant, it may start growing sideways as the weight of the foliage becomes unbalanced.

Regularly trim back any leggy or overgrown vines to promote bushier growth and prevent sideways growth. Use clean, sharp pruning shears and make clean cuts just above a leaf node. This will encourage new growth and help maintain a more compact and balanced appearance.

Conclusion

While it may be concerning to see your million hearts plant growing sideways, there are several reasons why this may occur. Lack of adequate light, improper watering, lack of support, insufficient nutrients, and pruning neglect can all contribute to this abnormal growth pattern.

By addressing these issues and providing the necessary care, you can help redirect the growth of your million hearts plant and promote healthier upward growth. Remember to provide adequate light, water properly, offer support structures, supply sufficient nutrients, and regularly prune your plant to maintain its overall health and appearance.

With proper care and attention, your million hearts plant will soon regain its upward growth habit and become a stunning addition to your home or garden.