Plant Care

How to Care for Swedish Ivy: The Complete Guide Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus) isn't actually ivy at all — it's a fast-growing, aromatic trailing plant that fills hanging baskets and shelves with lush, scalloped foliage. One of the most underrated houseplants, Swedish Ivy is incredibly easy to grow and practically propagates itself. Swedish Ivy at a Glance Botanical Name Plectranthus verticillatus (and related species) Common Names Swedish Ivy, Swedish Begonia, Creeping Charlie Plant Type Trailing tropical perennial Mature Size 6–12 inches tall, trails 2–3 ft. Light Bright indirect to medium Water When top inch of soil is dry Humidity Average (40–60%) Temperature 60–75°F (16–24°C) Soil Well-draining potting mix Toxicity Non-toxic to pets Difficulty Very easy Light, Water & Care Bright indirect to medium light produces the fullest growth. Tolerates lower light but becomes leggy. Water when the top inch of soil dries. Feed every 2–4 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer at half strength. Pruning & Propagation Regular pinching keeps Swedish Ivy bushy and full. Propagation couldn't be simpler: cut a stem, place in water or moist soil — roots appear within a week. Swedish Ivy is one of the fastest-rooting houseplants. Varieties at Divine Roots Emerald Lace — Scalloped, deeply textured leaves Green — Classic glossy green foliage Mint — Lighter, minty-scented variety Swedish Ivy is non-toxic to pets — perfect for pet-friendly homes. 👉 Shop Swedish Ivy Assorted · Shop Swedish Ivy Mint Frequently Asked Questions Is Swedish Ivy easy to care for? Extremely easy! It's one of the most low-maintenance houseplants available. Fast-growing, forgiving, and practically propagates itself. Is Swedish Ivy actually ivy? No — it's a Plectranthus, not related to true ivy (Hedera). The "Swedish" name comes from its popularity in Swedish households. It's also related to Coleus. Is Swedish Ivy pet-safe? Yes! Swedish Ivy is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children. How do I make Swedish Ivy bushy? Pinch growing tips regularly. This encourages branching and creates a full, bushy plant. Root the pinched cuttings and tuck them back into the pot for instant fullness. Fast, lush, and practically unkillable. Shop Swedish Ivy at Divine Roots. About the author Written and reviewed by Robert, Founder of Divine Roots — he grows, propagates and ships the plants we sell, and the care advice here reflects what actually works in our own greenhouse. 🌿 Related Reading Hanging Plants Indoor Best Indoor Plants for Beginners How to Care for Pothos How to Care for String Of Pearls

How to Care for String of Dolphins: The Complete Guide String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus) earns its name from its extraordinary leaves — each one shaped like a tiny leaping dolphin. This trailing succulent is a delightful conversation starter and a must-have for anyone who loves unique plants. Here's how to keep those little dolphins happy. String of Dolphins at a Glance Botanical Name Senecio peregrinus (syn. Curio × peregrinus) Common Names String of Dolphins, Dolphin Plant, Flying Dolphins Plant Type Trailing succulent Mature Size 6–12 inches tall, trails 1–3 ft. Light Bright indirect to some direct sun Water When soil is completely dry Humidity Low to average (30–50%) Temperature 55–80°F (13–27°C) Soil Fast-draining succulent/cactus mix Toxicity Toxic to pets Difficulty Moderate Light Requirements String of Dolphins needs bright indirect light with some gentle direct sun (morning sun is ideal). Without enough light, the dolphin-shaped leaves lose their distinctive form and become more generic-looking. Watering Like its cousin String of Pearls, this is a succulent that stores water in its leaves. Let soil dry completely between waterings. Summer: Every 10–14 days Winter: Every 3–4 weeks Overwatering is the #1 killer — err on the side of drought Humidity, Soil & Fertilizing Low humidity preferred. Fast-draining succulent mix essential. Feed monthly during spring/summer with diluted succulent fertilizer. Terracotta pots recommended. Propagation Stem cuttings: cut a 4–5 inch strand, let callous 1–2 days, then lay on moist succulent soil. Pin nodes to soil surface. Roots develop in 2–4 weeks. Common Problems Flattened or Misshapen Leaves Not enough light. The dolphin shape only develops with adequate bright light. Move to a sunnier spot. Mushy Stems Overwatering. Cut off healthy portions above the rot, let callous, and re-root in dry soil. 👉 Shop String of Dolphins · Shop Starter Plant Frequently Asked Questions How do I get the dolphin shape? Bright light is the key. In insufficient light, leaves flatten and lose the distinctive dolphin form. A south- or west-facing window is ideal. Is String of Dolphins related to String of Pearls? Yes! Both are in the Senecio (now Curio) genus. String of Dolphins is actually a hybrid between String of Pearls and Candle Plant. Is String of Dolphins toxic to pets? Yes. Keep in hanging baskets out of pet reach, or choose pet-safe plants. Why is my String of Dolphins dying? Most commonly overwatering. Check for mushy stems and roots. This succulent needs to dry out completely between waterings. A plant as playful as it is beautiful. Shop String of Dolphins at Divine Roots. About the author Written and reviewed by Robert, Founder of Divine Roots — he grows, propagates and ships the plants we sell, and the care advice here reflects what actually works in our own greenhouse. 🌿 Related Reading Hanging Plants Indoor Best Houseplants for Apartments How to Care for Echeveria How to Care for Sempervivum Related guide: Tradescantia Nanouk Care: The Complete Guide

How to Care for Philodendron Micans: The Complete Guide Philodendron Micans is the plant that makes you do a double-take. Its heart-shaped leaves are covered in a velvety texture that shimmers bronze, green, and purple depending on the light. Often called the "Velvet-Leaf Philodendron," Micans combines the easy-care nature of classic Philodendrons with looks that rival the most exotic tropicals. Philodendron Micans at a Glance Botanical Name Philodendron hederaceum var. hederaceum (Micans form) Common Names Philodendron Micans, Velvet-Leaf Philodendron Plant Type Trailing tropical vine Mature Size 6–12 ft. trailing length Light Medium to bright indirect Water When top 1–2 inches of soil are dry Humidity 50–70% Temperature 65–80°F (18–27°C) Soil Well-draining aroid mix Toxicity Toxic to pets Difficulty Easy Light Requirements Medium to bright indirect light brings out the best in Micans. The velvety iridescence — that signature shimmer — shows most dramatically in medium light where the leaves catch light at different angles. Bright indirect: Fastest growth, largest leaves Medium indirect: Best iridescent shimmer. The sweet spot for Micans aesthetics. Low light: Tolerates it (like most Philodendrons) but loses the velvet sheen and grows slowly Direct sun: Avoid — scorches the delicate velvet leaves Watering Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Micans follows the same watering rules as its Philodendron relatives — consistent but not excessive. Spring/Summer: Every 7–10 days Fall/Winter: Every 10–14 days Humidity Micans is slightly more humidity-sensitive than glossy-leaved Philodendrons. The velvet texture benefits from 50–70% humidity. A humidifier noticeably improves leaf quality, size, and that characteristic sheen. Temperature & Soil Keep in 65–80°F. Use a well-draining aroid mix: peat/coco coir + perlite + orchid bark. Repot every 1–2 years. Fertilizing Feed monthly during spring/summer with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Propagation Identical to other vining Philodendrons: Cut a stem section with at least one node Place in water or moist soil Roots develop in 1–3 weeks Common Problems Loss of Velvet Texture Usually too much direct light or too little humidity. Adjust both — medium indirect light + 50%+ humidity produces the best velvet sheen. Leggy Growth Needs more light. Prune back and relocate. Root the cuttings to fill out the pot. Yellow Leaves Overwatering. Ensure drainage is adequate. 👉 Shop Philodendron Micans · Shop Micans Starter Plant Frequently Asked Questions Why is Philodendron Micans so popular? The velvet texture and iridescent shimmer are unique in the houseplant world. New leaves emerge in shades of chartreuse and bronze, then mature into deep green with a purple-bronze sheen. It's affordable, easy to grow, and endlessly photogenic. Is Philodendron Micans rare? Not anymore! Micans has become widely available in recent years. At Divine Roots, we grow them regularly and offer both established plants and rooted starter plants. Can Micans climb? Yes! Micans naturally climbs. Give it a moss pole or trellis, and it will produce larger leaves than when trailing. Both climbing and trailing forms are beautiful. Is Philodendron Micans safe for pets? No. Like all Philodendrons, Micans is toxic to cats and dogs. Keep out of reach or choose pet-safe alternatives. Experience the velvet shimmer. Shop Philodendron Micans at Divine Roots — one of nature's most beautiful textures, growing right in your home. About the author Written and reviewed by Robert, Founder of Divine Roots — he grows, propagates and ships the plants we sell, and the care advice here reflects what actually works in our own greenhouse. 🌿 Related Reading Hanging Plants Indoor Easy Care Houseplants How to Care for Pothos How to Care for String Of Pearls

How to Care for Syngonium: The Complete Guide Syngonium — commonly known as the Arrowhead Plant — is a versatile, fast-growing tropical that transitions beautifully from compact tabletop plant to lush trailing vine as it matures. Its arrow-shaped leaves and easy-care nature make it a favorite for beginners and collectors alike. Syngonium at a Glance Botanical Name Syngonium podophyllum Common Names Arrowhead Plant, Arrowhead Vine, Goosefoot Plant Plant Type Tropical climbing/trailing vine Mature Size 3–6 ft. (trailing or climbing) Light Medium to bright indirect Water When top inch of soil is dry Humidity 50–70% Temperature 60–80°F (16–27°C) Soil Well-draining aroid mix Toxicity Toxic to pets Difficulty Beginner-friendly Light Requirements Medium to bright indirect: Ideal. Produces the best leaf size and variegation. Low light: Tolerates it well — one of the better low-light plants. Variegated types lose contrast in low light. Direct sun: Avoid — burns leaves. Watering Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Syngoniums like consistent moisture but not soggy soil. Spring/Summer: Every 5–7 days Fall/Winter: Every 7–10 days Humidity, Temperature & Soil Appreciates 50–70% humidity but adapts to average conditions. Temperature: 60–80°F. Plant in well-draining aroid mix (peat, perlite, orchid bark). Repot annually as Syngoniums are fast growers. Pruning & Training Young Syngoniums grow compact and bushy. As they mature, they develop a climbing/trailing habit. You can: Keep compact: Prune back trailing vines regularly to maintain a bushy shape Let it trail: Allow vines to cascade from shelves or hanging baskets Train to climb: Provide a moss pole — climbing produces larger, more mature leaves Propagation Cut a stem with at least one node and aerial root Place in water or moist soil Roots develop in 1–3 weeks Common Problems Yellow Leaves Overwatering or old age (lower leaves yellow naturally). Check drainage. Leggy Growth Needs more light or pruning. Trim back and move to a brighter spot. Brown Edges Low humidity. Boost with a humidifier or pebble tray. 👉 Shop Arrowhead Syngonium Frequently Asked Questions Is Syngonium a good beginner plant? Absolutely. Syngoniums are forgiving, fast-growing, and easy to propagate. They adapt to various light conditions and communicate their needs clearly. Can Syngonium grow in water? Yes! Syngoniums root and grow well in water permanently. Change the water weekly and add liquid fertilizer monthly. Is Syngonium toxic to pets? Yes, Syngonium contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic to cats and dogs. Keep out of reach or choose pet-safe plants. Why are my Syngonium leaves curling? Usually underwatering or low humidity. Check soil moisture, water if dry, and consider boosting humidity around the plant. Versatile, vibrant, and virtually foolproof. Shop Syngonium at Divine Roots — the plant that grows with you. About the author Written and reviewed by Robert, Founder of Divine Roots — he grows, propagates and ships the plants we sell, and the care advice here reflects what actually works in our own greenhouse. 🌿 Related Reading Easy Care Houseplants Air Purifying Indoor Plants Best Houseplants for Apartments How to Care for Peace Lily How to Care for Calathea

How to Care for Tradescantia: The Complete Guide Tradescantia (Spiderwort) is the fast-growing, colorful trailer that makes every plant parent feel like an expert. With shimmering purple, green, and silver foliage that cascades beautifully from shelves and hanging baskets, Tradescantia rewards even minimal care with maximum impact. Tradescantia at a Glance Botanical Name Tradescantia spp. Common Names Tradescantia, Spiderwort, Wandering Dude, Inch Plant Plant Type Trailing tropical perennial Mature Size 6–12 inches tall, trails 2–4 ft. Light Bright indirect Water When top inch of soil is dry Humidity Average to high (40–70%) Temperature 60–80°F (16–27°C) Soil Well-draining potting mix Toxicity Mildly toxic to pets (skin irritant) Difficulty Beginner-friendly Light Requirements Tradescantia needs bright indirect light to maintain its vivid purple and silver coloring. Light directly impacts color intensity — more light equals richer, more saturated hues. Bright indirect: Best. Produces the most vivid colors and compact growth. Some direct morning sun: Beneficial for color development. Medium light: Grows fine but colors fade toward green. Low light: Not recommended. The plant becomes leggy, loses variegation, and looks sparse. Watering Water when the top inch of soil dries out. Tradescantia likes consistent moisture but not soggy soil. It's forgiving of occasional missed waterings. Spring/Summer: Every 5–7 days Fall/Winter: Every 7–10 days Overwatering causes stem rot at the soil line — the most common way Tradescantia dies Humidity & Temperature Average household humidity is fine. Tradescantia adapts to a wide range of conditions: 60–80°F (16–27°C). Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F. Soil & Fertilizing Standard well-draining potting mix with added perlite works perfectly. Feed every 2–4 weeks during spring/summer with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Pruning — The Key to a Beautiful Tradescantia Regular pruning is essential. Without it, Tradescantia becomes leggy and sparse at the top while trailing long, bare stems. Pinch or trim stems regularly to encourage branching and maintain a full, bushy shape. You can root the cuttings and tuck them back into the pot for instant fullness. Propagation Tradescantia is possibly the easiest houseplant to propagate: Cut a 4–6 inch stem section Remove lower leaves Place in water or directly into moist soil Roots appear in 3–7 days (water) or 1–2 weeks (soil) That's it. No rooting hormone needed, no special conditions. Tradescantia roots faster than almost any houseplant. Common Problems Leggy, Bare Stems Insufficient light or lack of pruning. Move to brighter light and prune aggressively — Tradescantia responds beautifully to hard pruning. Fading Colors Needs more light. Move to a brighter spot for more intense purple and silver tones. Stem Rot Overwatering or poor drainage. Remove affected stems, improve drainage, and let soil dry more between waterings. 👉 Shop Tradescantia Purple · Shop Tradescantia Bolivian · Shop Tradescantia Rhapsody Combo Frequently Asked Questions Why is my Tradescantia losing its purple color? It needs more light. Purple and silver variegation requires bright indirect light. In lower light, the plant reverts toward green. Move to a brighter location and new growth should be colorful again. How do I make my Tradescantia bushy? Regular pruning. Pinch or cut stems back frequently — the plant branches at each cut point. Also propagate cuttings and plant them back into the same pot for instant fullness. Is Tradescantia safe for pets? Tradescantia sap can be a mild skin irritant for cats and dogs, causing dermatitis. While not severely toxic, it's best kept in hanging baskets out of reach. For fully pet-safe options, see our pet-safe plant guide. How fast does Tradescantia grow? Very fast! In good light, expect visible new growth weekly. Tradescantia can trail several feet in a single growing season, making it one of the most rewarding plants for impatient growers. Add vibrant color that grows fast. Shop Tradescantia at Divine Roots — rooted, healthy, and ready to trail beautifully. About the author Written and reviewed by Robert, Founder of Divine Roots — he grows, propagates and ships the plants we sell, and the care advice here reflects what actually works in our own greenhouse. 🌿 Related Reading Hanging Plants Indoor Easy Care Houseplants Best Indoor Plants for Beginners How to Care for Pothos How to Care for String Of Pearls Related guide: Oxalis triangularis (purple shamrock) careRelated guide: Tradescantia Nanouk Care: The Complete Guide