Why Your Shingle Plant Is Growing Sideways

Introduction

Shingle plants, also known as shingle vines or creeping figs, are popular houseplants known for their attractive foliage and ability to cling to walls. However, if you notice that your shingle plant is growing sideways instead of upright, it may be a cause for concern. In this article, we will explore some possible reasons why your shingle plant is growing sideways and provide tips on how to address this issue.

Lack of Adequate Light

One of the most common reasons why shingle plants grow sideways is the lack of adequate light. Shingle plants thrive in bright, indirect light, and when they don’t receive enough light, they tend to grow towards the nearest light source. If your shingle plant is positioned too far away from a window or is obstructed by other objects, it may start to lean or grow sideways.

To rectify this issue, consider moving your shingle plant to a brighter location where it can receive at least six hours of indirect sunlight per day. If natural light is limited in your space, you may also use artificial grow lights to supplement the plant’s light requirements.

Improper Watering Techniques

Another factor that can contribute to sideways growth in shingle plants is improper watering techniques. Overwatering or underwatering can stress the plant and lead to abnormal growth patterns. When a shingle plant’s roots are consistently moist or dry, it can disrupt its natural growth habit and cause it to grow sideways.

To ensure proper watering, allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering your shingle plant thoroughly. It is important not to let the plant sit in waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot. On the other hand, do not let the soil completely dry out either. Regularly check the moisture level using your finger or a moisture meter and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Lack of Support or Training

Shingle plants are climbers by nature, and they require some form of support to grow upright. If your shingle plant is not provided with a suitable structure to cling onto, it may start to grow sideways as it searches for something to hold onto.

Consider installing a trellis, wireframe, or wall-mounted support system for your shingle plant. As the plant grows, gently guide its vines towards the support structure and secure them using soft ties or plant clips. This will encourage the plant to grow vertically and prevent it from growing sideways.

Insufficient Nutrients

Nutrient deficiencies can also lead to abnormal growth in shingle plants. If your plant is not receiving enough essential nutrients, it may exhibit stunted growth or develop sideways growth patterns. Common nutrient deficiencies in shingle plants include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

To address this issue, fertilize your shingle plant regularly using a balanced houseplant fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the correct application rate and frequency. Fertilizing your plant will provide it with the necessary nutrients, promoting healthy growth and preventing sideways growth.

Pruning Neglect

Neglecting to prune your shingle plant can contribute to its sideways growth. Without regular pruning, the plant may become overgrown and start to grow in unpredictable directions. Additionally, excessive foliage can block light from reaching the lower parts of the plant, causing it to stretch towards available light sources.

Pruning your shingle plant not only helps maintain its shape but also encourages vertical growth. Trim back any excessively long or wayward vines using clean and sharp pruning shears. By removing excess foliage and redirecting growth, you can prevent sideways growth and promote a more upright habit.

Conclusion

If you’ve noticed that your shingle plant is growing sideways instead of upright, there are several potential reasons for this phenomenon. Lack of adequate light, improper watering techniques, lack of support or training, insufficient nutrients, and pruning neglect can all contribute to sideways growth in shingle plants.

By addressing these issues and providing the necessary care and attention, you can help your shingle plant regain its upright growth habit. Remember to ensure adequate lighting, water your plant properly, provide support or training structures, fertilize regularly, and prune as needed. With a little extra effort, your shingle plant will soon be thriving and growing vertically as intended.