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Homes & Gardens
How to grow creeping Charlie indoors – expert tips for this trailing beauty
By Holly Crossley,
5 days ago
Q: A friend has given me a creeping Charlie plant ( Pilea nummulariifolia ) as a housewarming gift. I've never heard of this type of houseplant before and don't know how to look after it – do you have any advice?
A: Hailing from the Caribbean and South America, creeping Charlie has stems of small, crinkled leaves that look similar to mint. Its trailing habit makes it a pretty option for a shelf or hanging planter, and it should grow quickly if conditions are right.
It's a low-maintenance indoor plant , but there are a few tips to take on board to keep it looking its best. Below, houseplant professionals share their insights, including advice on watering and light.
Creeping Charlie has lots of small, crinkled leaves (Image credit: d anutaratanya / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)
3 essential tips for how to grow creeping Charlie indoors
Water these houseplants when the top inch of soil has dried (Image credit: Bowonpat Sakaew / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)
Kiersten Rankel , a plant expert from the Greg app, recommends letting the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. 'The exact frequency will depend on where your plant lives, what size it is, and how big the pot is, so let your plant tell you when it’s ready,' she says. Note that you'll need to water less over winter, as these plants slow their growth during this time.
There are some telltale signs that your watering balance is off, as Kiersten highlights. Widespread yellow leaves often indicate too much water – similar to when a snake plant turns yellow . On the other hand, if the leaves have crispy brown edges, more hydration is needed.
Anastasia highlights how creeping Charlie hates cold air and drafts. 'It will be happy if temperatures stay between 65 and 80° Fahrenheit,' she says.
She also notes how bright, indirect sunlight is ideal. 'This plant will thrive close to an east- or west-facing window, as long as you shelter it from direct sun that can scorch its leaves.'
On the other hand, Kiersten says a leggy plant that's stretching for the sun might need a brighter spot.
3. Repot your plant when needed
Upgrade your plant's pot when the time is right (Image credit: Hasan Ashari / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)
Repotting houseplants provides the opportunity to give them fresh, nutrient-rich soil and more space to grow. It also prevents their roots from becoming congested, which can lead to problems with water and nutrient uptake.
Anastasia says to keep an eye on the drainage hole of your creeping Charlie. 'If you see roots poking out of it, it means that your plant can use some more space. Repot it in spring to avoid transplant shock.'
In terms of soil, she recommends using an African violet potting mix. We like the look of the Espoma organic mix from Amazon , which is well-rated by customers.
FAQs
Can creeping Charlie suffer from houseplant pests?
'Keep an eye out for any webbing or white fuzz which give away a pest’s hiding spots. Regular check-ups and a quick wipe down with soapy water usually keeps these pests at bay.'
Looking for other trailing plants to keep your creeping Charlie company? We love string-of-hearts and pothos , and our dedicated care guides are full of practical tips on how to look after them.
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