Peperomia - Growing Instruction & Care
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Peperomia (peh·pr·ow·mee·uh)
Family: Piperaceae
Common Name: Pepper Face, Baby Rubber Plant, String of Turtles, Parallel Plant
Botanical Name: Peperomia spp.
Pet Friendly: Yes
Peperomias are the perfect indoor plant for those seeking an easy-to-care-for, yet stylish addition to their home decor. With their thick, waxy leaves and vibrant colors, they are sure to add a touch of spice to any living space. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light and can withstand occasional forgetfulness when it comes to watering. Peperomias can even be treated like succulents, making them an ideal choice for those who prefer low-maintenance plants. Follow these simple tips to ensure that your peperomia plants stay healthy and beautiful!
Here are some key tips to help you grow your peperomia plants to their fullest potential:
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Light: Peperomias prefer medium to bright indirect light. Place them near a south- or west-facing window or very close to a north- or east-facing window. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause leaf scorch.
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Water: Allow the soil to dry out between watering for peperomias with waxy leaves. Those with softer, thinner leaves need to be watered more often. A moisture meter can help, but your finger is a good gauge too!
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Soil: Peperomias love good drainage and a soil mixture containing pumice, perlite, or wood chips. Consider mixing in cactus potting soil to help with drainage.
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Temperature: Temperatures between 60-80℉ are ideal, but they can withstand temps as low as 55℉. Keep them away from cold drafts and frequently used doors in the winter.
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Humidity: Higher humidity levels are beneficial, but they will do fine in average household air.
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Fertilizer: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a complete liquid fertilizer at 1/4 the recommended strength, or use worm castings or rich compost in the early summer.
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Pro Tips: Use soil with good drainage when re-potting, don't disturb the roots, cut off small blooms to encourage foliage development, leach the soil once a season, and move them to a brighter setting if they're not growing or dropping leaves.
If you're looking to add some peperomias to your plant collection, head over to American Plant Supply to purchase growing supplies and plants. And remember, it's always better to lean towards dry soil if you're unsure whether or not to water your Baby Rubber Plant!