Updated: July 5, 2023

If you’ve noticed that your Sheferella plant seems to be growing sideways instead of upright, you may be wondering what could be causing this unusual growth pattern. While Sheferella plants are known for their beautiful and lush foliage, they can sometimes exhibit strange growth habits that can leave plant owners scratching their heads. In this article, we will explore the possible reasons why your Sheferella plant is growing sideways and discuss how to correct this issue.

1. Insufficient Light

One of the most common reasons why Sheferella plants may grow sideways is due to insufficient light. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light conditions. If your Sheferella is not receiving enough light, it may start to grow towards the direction of the available light source.

To fix this issue, try moving your Sheferella plant to a brighter location in your home or office. Place it near a window where it can receive plenty of indirect sunlight throughout the day. If natural light is limited in your space, consider using artificial grow lights or fluorescent bulbs specifically designed for indoor plants.

2. Imbalanced Watering

Another factor that can cause your Sheferella plant to grow sideways is imbalanced watering. Overwatering or underwatering can disrupt the plant’s root system and lead to uneven growth.

To ensure proper watering, always check the soil moisture before watering your Sheferella plant. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water as it can lead to root rot. On the other hand, make sure not to let the soil completely dry out between waterings.

3. Lack of Nutrients

A lack of essential nutrients can also contribute to sideways growth in Sheferella plants. These plants require regular feeding with a balanced houseplant fertilizer to maintain healthy growth. Without proper nutrients, the plant may become weak and exhibit unusual growth patterns.

To remedy this issue, feed your Sheferella plant every two weeks during the growing season with a diluted liquid fertilizer. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the correct dosage. Be sure not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to fertilizer burn and further damage to the plant.

4. Improper Pruning

Improper pruning techniques can also cause your Sheferella plant to grow sideways. If you have been pruning your plant incorrectly, it can disrupt the natural growth pattern and lead to uneven growth.

When pruning your Sheferella plant, always use clean and sharp pruning tools. Remove dead or damaged leaves and stems, but avoid excessive pruning that can shock the plant. Trim back any long or leggy branches to encourage more compact growth.

5. Pest Infestation

In some cases, a pest infestation can cause Sheferella plants to grow sideways. Common pests that can attack these plants include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, weakening the plant and causing it to grow abnormally.

Inspect your Sheferella plant regularly for signs of pests, such as small insects, webbing, or yellowing leaves. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat your plant with an appropriate insecticide or try using natural pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

6. Genetic Factors

Lastly, it’s important to consider that genetic factors could be responsible for the sideways growth of your Sheferella plant. Some plants naturally have a tendency to grow in a particular direction due to their genetic makeup.

If none of the above factors seem to apply to your Sheferella plant, it’s possible that it is simply displaying its unique growth habit. Embrace this characteristic and adjust the placement of your plant accordingly to accommodate its growth pattern.

Conclusion

While it can be concerning to see your Sheferella plant growing sideways, there are usually simple explanations for this behavior. By addressing issues such as insufficient light, imbalanced watering, lack of nutrients, improper pruning, pest infestations, or genetic factors, you can help your Sheferella plant regain its upright growth habit.

Remember to provide adequate light, water your plant properly, feed it with appropriate nutrients, prune carefully, and monitor for pests regularly. With proper care and attention, your Sheferella plant will thrive and showcase its beautiful foliage in all its upright glory.