Origin and Common Names
Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush (pro sp.) is a perennial plant that is believed to be native to several countries in North and South America, including Mexico, Brazil, and the United States. This plant is also known by several other common names, including Wandering Jew, Inch Plant, and Spiderwort.
Uses
Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush is often grown as a decorative plant and is popular among indoor gardeners due to its low maintenance requirements and attractive appearance. In addition, some people use the plant for herbal medicine, claiming that it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. However, more research is needed to confirm these uses.
General Appearance
Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush features long, slender stems that are often green or purple in color. The leaves are typically ovate or elliptical in shape and range in color from green to purple. The flowers are small and typically bloom in shades of pink, white, or purple. Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush can grow up to 1 metre tall and wide, and thrives in a variety of growing conditions, including in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Growth Conditions for Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush (pro sp.)
Light: Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush (pro sp.) grows best in bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so it's important to provide some shading during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature: This plant thrives in moderate temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 85°F (29°C), but extreme temperature fluctuations can cause damage to the leaves.
Soil: Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush (pro sp.) prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mixture containing 1 part peat moss, 1 part perlite, and 1 part vermiculite is recommended. Avoid soil that is too heavy or compact, as it can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot.
Water: This plant requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not wet or soggy. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent overwatering and root rot. The frequency of watering depends on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the size of the pot.
Fertilizer: Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush (pro sp.) benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). A balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) can be applied every 2-4 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.
Cultivation methods for Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush
Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush is a hardy plant that can adapt to different growing conditions. It can be grown in pots or in the ground depending on the space available. The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can be grown in either full sun or partial shade depending on the availability of light.
Watering needs for Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush
The watering needs of Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush are moderate. It prefers to be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure that the soil is well-draining. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization of Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush
Fertilize Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth or damage to the plant. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when growth is slowed.
Pruning of Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush
Pruning Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush is not necessary, but it can be done to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. Prune the plant back by cutting the stems just above a node using clean, sharp pruning shears. This will encourage the plant to produce new growth from the point of pruning. Pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
Propagating Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush
Propagating Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush can be done through various methods depending on the grower’s preference or situation. One can choose to propagate by stem cuttings, division or seed germination.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the most common propagation method for Tradescantia ×diffusa. To propagate this plant using stem cuttings, one needs to select a healthy stem with a few leaves, cut just below the node and place the cutting in a container with water or moist soil. Keep the cutting in moderate light and change the water when necessary. After a few weeks, roots will start to grow from the nodes, and the cutting can be transplanted to a pot with soil.
Propagation by Division
Dividing and replanting existing mature plants of Tradescantia ×diffusa is a fast and easy way to propagate. Gently remove the entire plant from the soil or pot and separate the roots into smaller sections with a clean knife, ensuring each section has a piece of the stem and a few roots. Replant the divided parts either in separate pots or separate sections in the same pot with fresh soil and water thoroughly.
Propagation by Seed Germination
Although it is uncommon to propagate Tradescantia ×diffusa through seed germination, it can be done by collecting the mature seed pods and sowing them in a container of soil. Cover the seeds lightly with soil, keep moist and warm, and place the container in an area with bright, indirect light. Germination of the seeds takes about two weeks.
Disease Management
Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush can be susceptible to several diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. Leaf spot is caused by fungal pathogens and can result in yellowing and browning of the leaves. Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects the foliage, appearing as a white powdery coating on the leaves. Root rot is caused by overwatering and can lead to wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
To manage leaf spot and powdery mildew, it is important to keep the foliage as dry as possible. Avoid overhead watering and ensure adequate air circulation around the plant. If these diseases are already present, remove affected plant parts and treat with a fungicide. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining, and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pest Management
Tradescantia ×diffusa Bush can also be susceptible to pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing and discoloration of the leaves, while mealybugs appear as white, fluffy masses on the foliage and stems, and can cause stunted growth and leaf drop.
To manage spider mites and mealybugs, regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and isolate any infected plants to prevent the spread of pests. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat affected plants, and repeat the treatment as necessary. As a preventative measure, keep the plant healthy and stress-free by providing adequate lighting and moisture.
