Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 08:37 pm
The hoya flower is a popular houseplant thanks to its special flowers. We show you what you should pay attention to when caring for the wax flower.
The hoya flower owes its name to its decorative flowers, the inside of which resembles small ceramic ornaments. In addition, they exude a pleasantly sweet scent. These are probably the reasons for the popularity of this wax flower, which is also known as Hoya.
The genus of wax flowers includes about 200 species. The best known species in this country is Hoya carnosa, which has white to pink flowers. Some other species shine in other colors. For example, Hoya multiflora has yellow flowers.
Hoya flowers require warm temperatures, so they are strictly indoor and potted plants. Under the right conditions, they can live for several decades.
Contents
hoya flower: location and substrate.
The growth habit of the hoya flower varies depending on the species. Hoya carnosa is a climbing plant and grows relatively quickly in height. Accordingly, it should be placed in the apartment near an object around which it can entwine its branches. The most suitable for this purpose is a trellis. Other species of waxflower do not require this precaution. If you are unsure, you can ask about it when you buy it.
The following applies to all hoya flowers: they need a bright and warm place and do not tolerate direct sunlight very well. For example, a windowsill that is only directly exposed to the sun for short periods of time is suitable. Temperature fluctuations and drafts also do not get the plant. The ideal temperature (outside winter) for a hoya is between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius.
The substrate for wax flowers should be as permeable as possible. So the roots are always well ventilated. Also, look for soil that is not too nutrient-rich and tends to have a lower ph. Use peat-free soil not only for the sake of the hoya flower, but also for the sake of the environment. You can learn more about this here: Peat-free soil: why peat is a problem.
How to care for hoya flowers
Most Hoya species are relatively easy to care for. If you follow these tips, your hoya flower should have a long life:
- During the growing season between March and October, you should water the plant regularly, but not too heavily. Therefore, do not water again until the soil is actually dry. Also avoid waterlogging. A pot with a drainage hole at the bottom will also help.
- hoya flowers are used to high humidity. To simulate this, you can regularly spray the leaves with a little water.
- You should also fertilize only in the growth phase. Then you can provide the plant with organic fertilizer every three to four weeks.
- If the Hoya has spread its roots so far that the pot is too small, you should repot it. The best time to do this is between February and March. However, if it is not absolutely necessary, it is better not to do it: repotting is especially harmful to older plants.
- The hoya flower blooms between May and September. During this period you should not move the plant, otherwise buds and flowers will fall off.
- Do not cut off faded flowers! New buds can form on them again.
- It is also better to avoid pruning. Only if the plant grows too much, you can carefully shorten it with sharp scissors or a knife.
Hoya overwinter
In winter, different rules apply to hoya flowers:
- In overwintering mode, the plants are most comfortable at ten to 15 degrees Celsius. The place should still be bright. You should avoid drafts and temperature fluctuations.
- Water the wax flowers less and at longer intervals.
- Do not fertilize the plant during the winter months.
- When spring begins, you can slowly introduce the Hoya to warmer temperatures and gradually water it more.