By Benpcoleman
California, United States
Chronically unhealthy brugsmania, help!
I started this brugsmania from seed but it is always mad at me. I have potted up when needed and give it lots of attention. It tends to randomly bend over and wilt even when watered the right amount. Beyond a slug favorites as you can see, it just looks sick. Any suggestions? Thank you!!
- 21 May, 2016
Answers
It's not easy to see from the angle of the shot, but the pot looks as if it might be much too small. Brugsmania needs to be potted in John Innes No.3 in a large container, fed regularly (each month) and watered sparingly. Check out this RHS link for full information: https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=576
22 May, 2016
To tug: I used just regular potting soil, I think miracle grow moisture control or something similar. Do I use tobacco on the plant? No, never. And only I have pruned it.
Rosie: sounds like I need to pot up and not water as much? I always assumed it needs lots of water as a tropical. Maybe I'm wrong?
Thanks!!
22 May, 2016
Ben, I was referring to using tobacco on yourself, as in smoking or chewing. Residues left on the fingers, or smoke hanging in the air, can transfer viruses in the tobacco, including mosaic, to the plant.
As for watering, I would have used Cactus Mix, and let the top 1/2 inch of soil dry out between thorough soakings. It's more drought tolerant than you might think. Ideally, the pot shouldn't be less than 1/3 of the size of the plant. I prefer a low phosphate food, but that is primarily because of the alkaline water where I live.
23 May, 2016
Tug, no I don't use tobacco. Great advice though and I think I need to pot up using cactus mix. Thanks so much!
23 May, 2016
What kind of soil did you use, Ben? Has anyone other than you pruned it? Do you use tobacco--a potential source of viruses--in any form?
22 May, 2016