Tradescantia: description and care

Tradescantia is a perennial herbaceous plant. It is distinguished by a long stalk on which small leaves grow densely. The name Tradescantia received in honor of the English gardener of the middle of the XVII century John Tradescant.

In view of its unpretentiousness, Tradescantia - Ideal plant for those who are just beginning to get involved in indoor floriculture. A huge number of species of this plant will allow you to choose Tradescantia, which is right for you.

Among the healing properties of this plant, it is noted that Tradescantia purifies the air and effectively moisturizes it. In addition, this relatively inconspicuous and simple plant neutralizes electromagnetic radiation. If you regularly look at Tradescantia, noticeably relieves eye strain, improves mood, it becomes easier to breathe.

Many grow Tradescantia exclusively for the sake of her medicinal qualities. This plant - a real storehouse of vitamins for man and useful food for homeanimals and birds. Therefore, do not be surprised if your kitten begins chewing the leaves of Tradescantia. And many aquarists generally recommend to plant this plant so that the sprouts of Tradescantia descend to the water. Aquarium fish like this kind of natural delicacy, and they happily "pinch" the green leaves of Tradescantia.

The most popular among modern florists is the Zebrin Tradescantia and White-flowered Tradescantia.

Tradescantia white-flowered Is a plant with light green oblong small leaves. Its name was given for small three-petalled flowers of white color.

Tradescantia Zebrina has a more effective "appearance." On long shoots, small leaves of round shape are attached. Unusual color of each leaf: from the base to the edge of the sheet stretch wide white strips, the very leaf can be green or greenish with a pink outflow.

Care for this plant is not very special. Tradescantia it grows well under bright light, but rather well tolerates and partial shade. Sufficiently well develops when it hits direct sunlight.

Watering should be moderate, not too abundant, but alsoDescendants should not dry up. In winter, Tradescantia should be watered much less often than in summer. Tradescantia loves high air humidity, so in order for the plant to actively grow and develop, it must be regularly sprayed.

Enough well tolerates Tradescantia fluctuations in temperature, therefore practically does not react to heat or cold.

Tradescantia must be periodicallyfeed, in the summer - every two weeks, in the winter - once a month. Make sure that fertilizers contain a minimum amount of nitrates, an excess of nitrogen can weaken the leaves of Tradescantia, as a result of which they will lose color, become weaker and lethargic.

Transplant Tradescantia is recommended every year, preferablyin the spring. It is well rooted in the soil, which consists of a mixture of leaf land with sand in equal proportions. At the bottom of the pot is recommended to put drainage.

Propagated by Tradescantia cuttings. It is best to do this in the middle of spring. In order for the plant to have an attractive appearance, it grew and branched rapidly, Tradescantia need to regularly pinch.

Despite the ease of care, Tradescantia, like all plants, can be susceptible to diseases and pests. Most often, Tradescantia is "attacked" aphids and whitefly. In addition, Tradescantia can fall ill with a black leg, and excessive watering will lead to decay of the root of the plant.

Probably, Tradescantia can not compare in beauty and originality with many modern wonders of breeding, but having planted this green treasure at home, you will hardly regret it.

If you successfully grow Tradescantia, share your experience with those who are just about to start this plant. Do you have any secrets to care for Tradescantia?