Taking care of a dinosaur plant, also known as a resurrection plant or Selaginella lepidophylla, requires a few specific steps to ensure its health and longevity. Whether you choose to grow it in water or soil, proper care is essential. In this answer, I will provide detailed instructions for both methods.
Growing in Water:
1. Start by placing the dinosaur plant in a glass container or jar filled with water. Ensure that the plant is fully submerged.
2. Change the water every few days to prevent stagnation and the growth of harmful bacteria. This will help maintain the plant’s health.
3. Allow some water to evaporate naturally, as this replicates the plant’s natural environment. However, ensure that the plant remains submerged during the entire month of its active growth.
4. After about a month, allow the water to completely dry out. This step is crucial for the plant’s dormancy phase. Do not attempt to stop the drying process if it has already begun.
Growing in Soil:
1. Prepare a well-draining potting mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and sand. This mixture will provide the ideal conditions for the dinosaur plant’s growth.
2. Plant the dinosaur plant in the potting mix, ensuring that its roots are well-covered but not buried too deeply.
3. Keep the soil perpetually moist by watering it regularly. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot or fungal issues.
4. Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Dinosaur plants thrive in partial shade or filtered light.
5. Monitor the moisture level of the soil regularly and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Aim to keep the soil consistently damp, but not waterlogged.
General Care Tips:
1. Provide a suitable temperature range for the dinosaur plant. They prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid extreme heat or cold, as it can negatively impact the plant’s health.
2. Avoid direct exposure to intense sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. Partial shade or filtered light is ideal.
3. Avoid using fertilizers, as dinosaur plants are adapted to survive in nutrient-poor environments. Excessive nutrients can harm the plant.
4. Maintain a consistent humidity level. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant to increase humidity.
5. Pruning is not necessary for dinosaur plants. However, if you notice any dead or yellowing leaves, you can gently remove them to improve the plant’s appearance.
Personal Experience:
I have had the opportunity to care for a dinosaur plant in both water and soil. In my experience, growing in water requires more attention to water changes and evaporation. It is crucial to keep the water fresh and prevent any buildup of harmful substances. On the other hand, growing in soil provides stability and requires regular monitoring of moisture levels.
I found that placing the dinosaur plant in a well-draining potting mix and maintaining consistent moisture levels worked best for me. By checking the soil regularly and adjusting my watering schedule accordingly, I ensured the plant remained healthy and thrived.
Taking care of a dinosaur plant involves either growing it in water with regular water changes and allowing evaporation, or planting it in well-draining soil and keeping the soil perpetually moist. Both methods require attention to specific care instructions to ensure the plant’s health and longevity. By following these steps and monitoring the plant’s needs, you can enjoy the unique beauty of a dinosaur plant in your home.
