To get your lipstick plant to flower, focus on providing the optimal growing conditions it needs: bright light, warm temperatures, high humidity, consistent watering, and regular fertilization.
Here's a breakdown of what you need to do:
Optimizing Growing Conditions for Lipstick Plant Blooms
Lipstick plants ( Aeschynanthus radicans ) are known for their vibrant red, tube-shaped flowers that resemble lipstick emerging from a case. To encourage flowering, mimic their natural tropical environment.
Light
- Requirement: Lipstick plants need very bright, indirect light to produce flowers.
- Solution: Place your plant near an east- or west-facing window. If you're not getting enough natural light, supplement with a grow light. Insufficient light is a primary reason why lipstick plants don't bloom.
Temperature
- Requirement: Maintain warm temperatures consistently above 65°F (18°C).
- Solution: Avoid placing your plant near drafty windows or doors. Keep them away from air conditioning vents.
Humidity
- Requirement: High humidity is crucial for flowering.
- Solution: Increase humidity by:
- Using a humidifier
- Placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot isn't sitting directly in the water)
- Grouping plants together to create a more humid microclimate
- Misting the plant regularly (though this is a less effective long-term solution)
Watering
- Requirement: Consistent watering is essential, but avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Solution: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot, which can inhibit flowering.
Fertilization
- Requirement: Regular fertilization is necessary to provide the nutrients the plant needs for bloom production.
- Solution: Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Other Considerations
- Repotting: Repotting may temporarily stunt flowering. Lipstick plants prefer to be slightly root-bound. Only repot when necessary, using a well-draining potting mix.
- Pruning: Pruning can encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Prune after flowering is complete.
By paying attention to these environmental factors and care tips, you can significantly increase the chances of your lipstick plant rewarding you with its beautiful blooms.
