Miniature plants have the same growing and care requirements as full size plants with a few exceptions. Most are small versions of regular plants, and can be kept under the same growing conditions. Indoors, it is important to make sure you pay attention to their specific needs.
Avoid Keeping Miniature Plants in Small Pots
Group plants if possible. - They are usually planted in smaller pots which dry out quickly, and may cause the plant to become rootbound. If you can, group miniature plants together in larger plantings rather than leaving them in tiny pots which leave them more exposed to wind and drought. If you can't arrange your minis in a single pot, at least cluster the small pots together rather than lining them up on th windowsill or another area where they are exposed to excessve heat or air flow.
Watch for sunburn and heat exposure - Many miniature plants are grown indoors on window ledges. Make sure your miniature plant does not suffer sunburn or too much heat exposure if you site it in this type of location. Be especially careful if the plant is in a tiny pot, as it can totally dry out in a few hours in a sunny window.
Fertilize only lightly - Miniature plants may have very limited growth and will not require extra fertilizer. Care for the plant the way you would a full size version, dead head and prune flowers, remove dead and dying leaves.
Keep an eye out for insect infestations - The size of miniature plants means they are infested quickly by any insect problem such as aphids, so make sure you inspect them often and head off insects when you first see them. The occasional wash with a spray of pure soap and water (ivory or another natural soap, 1 tblsp. to a gallon of water.) helps, but don’t leave a moist plant in a sunny window, water droplets focus the sun and can burn their leaves.
Repot them if necessary - Miniature plants are often sold in tiny pots to accentuate their size. Make sure your plant has good soil and an adequate pot size for growth, repot them as necessary.
Miniatures don't have to stay in pots. Many can be planted in full size gardens so look for a place to use these tiny wonders whenever possible!
Popular Miniature Plants to Grow
- Kordana Miniature Roses - These are commonly sold at grocery stores and florists. Learn how to care for them so they survive indoors or out.
- Miniature Carnations - Another popular houseplant, miniature carnations need special care indoors.Miniature Cyclamen - keep you cyclamens in pots for years with these tips.
