La Soleirolia soleirolii It is a houseplant that is commonly used to cover the ground in humid and shady areas, therefore is an attractive alternative to grass.
So in this article we will tell you what their characteristics, ways of growing it, irrigation, etc.
Features
La Soleirolia soleirolii is a perennial perennial plant, native to the Mediterranean area and that grows rapidly. It has thin, tender stems and very small leaves.
Due to its form of growth, prostrate or creeping, in a short time this plant forms dense carpets a few centimeters high and in summer it produces small round white-pink flowers of little ornamental value.
Generally the leaves are dark green, although there are many varieties of clear leaves. This plant, also known as Bridal mattress, is ideal for covering the ground or as an indoor plant, and can be placed in hanging containers.
The Soleirolia prefers not very bright positions, If you grow it in your garden, it should be in a shady or semi-shady place.
Very low temperatures and below -10 °, can severely damage leavesBut the aerial part of the plant will grow back quickly next spring and can be grown either indoors or in the garden.
Indoors it is recommended keep them away from heat sources, to avoid receiving air that is too dry.
The Bridal Mattress can be used to cover walls or as a substitute for moss in a Japanese garden, for example. The masses of small leaves are spread all over the ground and form a dense carpet.
When covering the ground, will continue to spread over rocks, fallen logs and so on, forming a beautiful landscape.
Irrigation of the Soleirolia soleirolii
The soil where the Soleirolia soleirolii it should be kept constantly moist, but not too soggy. If you grow it in your home garden, you should water it daily so that the soil does not dry out. If you notice that the plant loses the outermost leaves, you should suspend watering until spring. It is it is advisable not to wet its delicate leaves as they tend to be easily damaged.
Avoid watering the plants that are outdoors and when the temperatures are low, so that the root is not damaged.
These plants should be grown in soil rich in organic matter, well drained, moist and with a slightly acidic pH. If you have them in containers you must replant it at least every two years, since they tend to grow a lot, this should take place during the spring period.
In the garden it should be sown in a place where they can find the right space to be able to expand, since these plants if they find a suitable habitat, they can also be invasive.
Farming
In spring the plant can be divided into portions of a few square centimeters and that have well developed roots, so you will have new plants quickly. The portions should be placed very carefully, in individual containers, filled with rich, light soil.
These are plants that reproduce very easily, so you won't have a problem getting new plants.
Parasites and diseases
The main cause of death of these plants is generally drought. However, they can also be attacked by spider mites or that root development is compromised by root rot, as a result of overwatering or even too compact and undrained soil.
Precautions
If you see that your plant turns black it is because it is receiving too much water. If it happens in winter, your plant has frozen. If it turns yellow it is because the soil is too wet. And finally, if the stems are long and not very leafy, it is because it lacks light.
In short, Soleirolia soleirolii it survives in dry periods and recovers quickly afterwards, preferring shady places. Its leaves die from winter frost, but they will recover to grow vigorously in the spring.