Miniature plants have the same growing requirements as full size plants with a few exceptions.
1. Group plants if possible.
They are usually planted in smaller pots which dry out quickly. If you can, group miniature plants together in larger plantings with good soil, rather than leaving them in tiny pots which leave them more exposed to wind and drought.
2. 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.
3. Fertilize lightly.
Miniature plants may have very limited growth and will not require extra fertilizer if they are planted in good soil. If left in their original pots and soil, you may want to use a dilute soluble fertilizer once a week when you water, or sprinkle the soil surface with a few pellets of a slow release fertilizer formulated for flowering plants. Care for the plant the way you would a full size version, dead head and prune if necessary, remove dead and dying leaves.4. Watch for insects.
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.
5. Repot 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!
