Dischidia Plants: How to Grow and Care for Them

Dischidia Plants

 Dischidia Plants: How to Grow and Care for Them

There are over 80 distinct species of Dischidia, an epiphytic succulent genus. Tropical countries like India, the Philippines, and New Guinea are known to grow these plants in the wild.

 

An epiphyte is a plant that grows on another object, such as a rock or a tree branch. In the traditional sense of the word, epiphytes do not grow in soil and do not put down 'roots,' but instead rely on rain and debris accumulated by the wind to provide their nutrients.

 

They are now trendy because of their eye-catching, exotic appearance and well-deserved reputation as easy houseplants. Choosing a Dischidia plant is an excellent option if you're looking for an easy-to-care-for houseplant.

 

Facts about Plants

Robert Brown coined the genus name Dischidia in 1810. As a nod to the plant's distinctive appearance, the name derives from the Greek word "decides," meaning "parted or cleated crowns."

 

What is the Best Way to Grow Dischidia?

As a houseplant, you can quickly grow these plants in a container. We prefer to grow these plants in hanging containers because of their flowing foliage, which allows the foliage to spill out and turn gracefully.

 

It's possible to grow these indoors and out as well. During the warmer months, they are fine but depending on the type of winter in your area; they may need additional shelter or be brought indoors.

 

They do not do well in direct sunlight and should be protected from it by other, taller plants if you decide to grow them outside.

 

There are a few varieties that are known for their ability to climb. There are many examples of these plants clinging to trees in the wild. You can use a trellis to encourage these species to climb upwards in your garden. Also, you could let the plants climb up the pot's hanging system if you don't want to plant them near a fence.

 

Propagation

can easily be used to propagate these plants. It's safest and most reliable to grow plants from cuttings, ensuring that the new plant will have the same characteristics you love about the parent plant.

 

Spring and summer are ideal times to take cuttings. When pruning, use a pair of clean scissors or pruning shears to cut below an established stem's leaf node.

 

Place the cutting in a bowl of water and allow it to grow roots for a few days. There's a 30-day window here.

 

You can remove the cutting from the water and plant it in any basic cactus or succulent mix. A sphagnum moss ball is an option for mounting your piece.

 

Freshly propagated specimens should be placed to receive indirect sunlight and be cared for.

 

Seeds can also be used to grow these houseplants. However, this is the most time-consuming step. Furthermore, it is impossible to predict the growth and performance of the new plant. The seeds, it turns out, have tiny hairs on them that aid in wind transport.

 

Plants like these should not be grown in soil-based growing mediums because they are epiphytic plants. Planting them in a suitable medium for epiphytes is the better option.

 

Orchid potting mix from the store is a good option. Shredded bark or coconut husk can also be used as a substrate. Alternatively, you can mount your Dischidia plant to a sphagnum moss ball instead of using any soil.'

 

Pruning

Unlike other plants, these don't necessitate a lot of pruning. However, keep an eye out for and remove any yellowing or dying foliage. Dischidia plants can be pruned once a year to maintain a desired shape or size.

 

Always use clean tools when pruning to prevent bacterial or fungal diseases. It is preferable to prune with a sharp tool that provides the best incision.

 

Transplanting and Repotting

Plants can become root-bound over time if they grow too large for their container. Roots can grow out of drainage holes when a plant is rootbound. Repotting your Dischidia plant every two to three years may be necessary to keep up with its rapid growth. Choosing a container with adequate drainage is critical when repotting.

 

If the repotting process is too stressful, a condition known as transplant shock may occur. Do not disturb the roots too much to avoid transplant shock. Water your plant before taking it out of its container because moist meats travel better and are less easily. After the plant has been moved to its new location, give it plenty of water.

 

Dischidia should be transplanted in the early spring if you've taken a cutting for propagation.

 

Dischidia Plants: How to Maintain Them

There are a few universal themes, no matter what kind of animal you're dealing As a general rule, raising Dischidias is all about emulating their natural habitat.

 

Getting the right combination of soil or substrate moisture, lighting, and humidity is critical for these plants. The ideal conditions may come naturally to you depending on where you live in the country. To ensure that your plants are happy and healthy in colder and drier climates, you may have to make more effort.

 

Water

The water consumption of these plants is average. Watering them once a week is usually enough for them. If the soil appears to be drying out faster in the hotter months of the year, you may need to water it more frequently. On the other hand, your Dischidia plant may require less watering during the winter months.

 

Don't overwater the plant. Root rot can occur due to oversaturation, and if this happens, your prized plant will perish. Check the soil moisture with your finger to avoid overwatering. Water the soil if it appears to be dried. If it still feels damp, you may want to hold off.

 

Sunlight

Native to forested areas, Dischidia plants can be grown amongst other tall trees and plants. As a result, medium to bright indirect sunlight is preferred by most cultivars.

 

Direct sunlight can harm your Dischidia plant. It can be scorched. It's Tender foliage, and the plant can be damaged by too much direct sunlight.

 

However, good ventilation does not necessarily mean cold drafts.

 

Humidity and Temperature

Tropical climates are more favourable to Dischidia plants. It's best to keep your plant out of drafts and out of the cold if possible. If you're growing your plant indoors, this shouldn't be an issue. It will help keep your plants in a temperature range of 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

In addition to obtaining water from the air around them, Dischidia plants are epiphytic. As a result, Dischidia plants are also drawn to humid conditions. It's best to mist your plants with water to raise their humidity levels.

 

If your growing environment is arid, you may want to run a humidifier once or twice a day.

 

A DIY humidifying tray is a great way to increase the humidity in your plants' environment. Add water and pebbles to a shallow tray large enough to hold your Dischdia's container. The humidity will rise as the water evaporates.

 

Fertilizer

It's generally agreed that Dischidia plants don't consume much food. There is no need for a fertilizing regimen for them to thrive. When it comes to promoting rapid growth, fertilizing may be necessary.

 

Dilutions of any store-bought houseplant fertilizer should be sufficient. Fertilizing is best done in the spring and summer. To avoid overfertilizing, taking half of the recommended dosage is suitable.

 

We advise you to reduce your fertilization protocol in the winter.

 

Diseases and Pests

Dischidia plants don't have a problem with pests. However, insects such as mealybugs and scale insects should avoid insects such as mealybugs and scale insects. The safest way to get rid of pests is to use insecticidal soap or oil, such as neem oil.

 

For Dischidia plants, the most common issue is root rot. Root rot can cause a variety of symptoms in your plant.

Keypoint:

Choosing a Dischidia plant is an excellent option if you're looking for an easy-to-care-for houseplant.

Repotting your Dischidia plant every two to three years may be necessary to keep up with its rapid growth.

It's best to mist your plants with water to raise their humidity levels.

A DIY humidifying tray is a great way to increase the humidity in your plants' environment.

For Dischidia plants, the most common issue is root rot.