Peperomia (Radiator plant) - Care tips

Peperomia (Radiator plant)

Peperomias are incredibly easy-going, low-care houseplants. So the Peperomia is great for beginners! They grow in the cool understory of the rainforest. Some species are mistaken for succulents, partly due to their compact and slow-growth. Indoors, mature Peperomia plants never grow to be super tall and therefor are ideal for tables. Some varieties make excellent hanging plants. Not only are they easy plants that tolerate some benign neglect, but the spectacular variety of colors and textures available means that you can have an interesting collection of plants for every style and space, all of which require the same easy care.

Peperomia Plant Care Tips

Peperomia plants can live for years in a relatively small container. They enjoy a somewhat root-bound existence, and this combined with their slow growth rate means you can leave them alone unless you see roots coming out of the drainage holes.

Light and placement for Peperomias

To maintain their vibrant foliage colours you should place them in a medium to bright light spot. Leaf drop, fewer leaves growth and a drab colour will appear when she has insufficient light. The Peperomia her leaves will burn with direct sun rays, so keep this in mind as well. Placing her near a window should be perfect. As tropical plants, Peperomia plants prefer a warm and humid environment, especially in the summer months when her growth is most active. Place it on a tray of pebbles and water to increase humidity, or invest in a small humidifier.

Water

The succulent leaves of the Peperomia shows that the plant doesn’t need frequent watering. Allow the first 2 to 3 centimeters to dry out between watering to prevent root rot and fungus problems and for her to stay happy as well

Nutrition

When it comes to giving nutrition your Peperomia plants, less is more. Discolored or dropping leaves are usually a sign of inadequate light or excessive watering, not poor nutrition. The Peperomia can go its entire life without supplemental fertilizer!

Propagating Peperomias

Because of their thick, succulent nature, Peperomia plants are easy to propagate via cuttings. Stem, leaf and tip cuttings. Place the cutting, cut end down, in a small container filled with potting soil and then just water consistently and never let the soil dry out. You can also place the cutting in a vessel with water and then just leave it in medium to bright light for the roots to grow as fast as possible.

Most common pests on Peperomias

Peperomia plants are susceptible to the same pests that affect most indoor plants. Pests such as mealy bug, red spider mite and white fly. The plants are also susceptible to root rot if the soil is constantly too damp.

Are you unsure if your plant has a problem such as pests or root rot? We recommend you to check with our PLNTS Doctor.

Are Peperomias poisonous for pets or children?

The good news is that Peperomias are considered to be non-toxic and even a pet-friendly plant. Cats and dogs love these plants though, this may lead them to eat enough to make them sick despite the plants being non-toxic. Also be warned! With such a vast number of Peperomia species, it is always possible to run into an uncommon or newly domesticated species with some degree of toxicity. Just always keep an eye on your furry and green friends.

Buy your new Peperomia at PLNTS.com

At PLNTS.com you can buy different types of the Peperomia. There really is a Peperomia for everyone! Whether you like your Peperomia big from the start or prefer to grow them from tiny BabyPLNTS into full-grown PLNTS - we’ve got you covered!