Tender Loving Care Advice for Portulaca Molokiniensis Bonsai in ceramic pot :
Portulaca Molokiniensis is a rare and unique succulent shrub originated from the Pacific coastal islands. As it is native to hot, arid areas, where it gets very little natural water. It does not need frequent watering to sustain a good growth. Once a week to ten days should be sufficient.
If this plant is accidentally harmed by a brown spot in the process of growth, its branches and leaves will show irregular disease spots and gradually turn black, shed off and die. The blackened leaves should be cut off in time and get treated immediately. Under regulated care, cluster of small, lemon yellow, cup-shaped flowers can be produced regularly on the upright clumps of leaves.
Growing Conditions
Light: It prefers locations with medium to high light and good ventilation.
Water: Limited watering; misting every 7-10 days and never leave roots sitting in damp soil. These plants are very susceptible to root rot .Once root rot sets in, it is difficult to treat and eliminate. Repot the plant immediately to a new set of media which may help to salvage the plant.
Soil: It requires very well drained substrate comprising of cactus mix and mineral grid (perlite/coarse sand/pumice) in ratio of 1:1 in good drainage pot.
Fertilizer: Apply fertilizer once every two months with diluted strength of liquid fertilizer or sprinkling solid fertilizer over the soil.
Pests & diseases: The only possible common pests that bug the plants include spider mites and mealy bugs. The plants are prone to White Rust -The best natural treatment for white rust is to spray with a mixture of apple cider vinegar, diluted 1:1 with water. Repeat the spraying every few days, until the white coating disappears.
Special growing remarks: In Singapore, this species requires an air-conditioned environment.
*Product photo shown is for reference only. Actual pot colour, type of pot, size & arrangement may differ from photo.