Fittonia care: important nuances of growing a small variegated miracle
The bright color of the delicate leaves of Fittonia attracts the attention of many flower growers. However, caring for Fittonia requires creating conditions as close as possible to natural ones. The fact is that in nature, culture grows in humid forests, where it often rains. Accordingly, the requirements for humidity are too high. For this reason, in the dry air of the apartment, the flower feels uncomfortable and often dies. How to properly care for Fittonia so that it delights with its bright appearance for a long time?
There are many varieties of Fittonia with a wide variety of leaf colors. The basic rules of care for all varieties are the same. The difference may be in the humidity of the air. Some modern hybrids are most adapted to indoor conditions.
Choosing a place: flower requirements for light, warmth and humidity
Fittonia is a thermophilic plant, while it needs warmth all year round. In both winter and summer, the room should be kept at a temperature of 20 ° C. At higher values, the leaves begin to dry out. At a lower room temperature, the bush freezes up.
It is equally important to choose a suitable window sill for the flower. The lighting should be bright, but diffuse. On the northern windows, the shoots will stretch out, and on the southern ones, the leaves will burn.
Fittonia is best kept on the east-west side.
Most problems with growing Fittonia are associated with low moisture levels. This is vital for the flower, so you need to often spray the air around the pot. You can put a container of water next to it or place the fittonia in aquarium.
Caring for Fittonia on the windowsill: what you need to pay attention to
If you decide to purchase Fittonia, you will have to learn to practice moderation. For this flower, the rule of four "NOT" applies, namely:
- pour over;
- dry out;
- freeze;
- overexpose.
Although Fittonia loves moisture, it will not forgive frequent watering and stagnant water and will quickly rot. It is best to water the bush in a tray. The method of immersing the pot in a container of water will also be good for her. Just 30 minutes is enough for the plant to "get drunk", and the excess liquid just needs to be drained.
But what a flower loves is to “eat”. In gratitude for the frequent feeding, the bush will delight with magnificent forms. At the same time, fittonia can be fertilized both at the root and on the leaf.
Despite the "gluttony", phytonia prefers weak fertilizers. During the preparation of the working solution, its concentration must be halved.