The crown of thorns plant can be grown as an indoor plant. In fact, it is quite well-suited to indoor conditions, as long as it is provided with the right care and environment.
When growing crown of thorns indoors, it is important to place it in a sunny location. This plant thrives in full sun, so try to find a spot near a window that receives direct sunlight for several hours a day. If you don’t have a sunny window, you can also use artificial grow lights to provide the necessary light for the plant.
In terms of soil, crown of thorns prefers a soil-based potting mix. This type of mix provides the necessary nutrients and drainage for the plant. It is important to use a well-draining potting mix to avoid overwatering, as crown of thorns is susceptible to root rot in wet conditions.
When it comes to watering, crown of thorns prefers to dry out between waterings. It is a drought-tolerant plant and is more likely to suffer from overwatering than underwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. During the winter months, when growth slows down, you can reduce the frequency of watering.
In terms of temperature, crown of thorns prefers warmer conditions. It is not frost-tolerant and does not like temperatures below 35 degrees F. So, if you live in a colder climate, it is best to keep the plant indoors during the winter months to protect it from the cold.
Pruning is also an important aspect of crown of thorns care, both indoors and outdoors. This plant can become quite large and leggy if not pruned regularly. Pruning helps to maintain a compact and bushy shape. You can prune back any long or straggly stems to encourage new growth and maintain the desired shape of the plant.
It is worth mentioning that the crown of thorns plant has thorns, as the name suggests. These thorns can be sharp, so it is important to handle the plant with care and keep it away from children and pets.
In my personal experience, I have successfully grown crown of thorns as an indoor plant. I placed it near a sunny window and provided it with the proper care and conditions. It thrived and produced beautiful blooms year after year. However, I did learn the hard way that overwatering can be detrimental to this plant. I accidentally left it in a tray of water for too long, and it developed root rot. Thankfully, I was able to salvage the plant by repotting it in fresh, well-draining soil and adjusting my watering routine.
Crown of thorns can make a wonderful indoor plant if provided with the right care and environment. Its vibrant flowers and unique thorny stems can add a touch of beauty and interest to any indoor space.
