Read on for our care and growing guide.
However, see to it it’s still placed at a distance so no pet can reach its leaves.
Light
Goldfish plants prefer bright light, but they don’t like direct light.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
They can also successfully be grown undergrow lightsindoors, especially during the winter.
Soil
A light, fast-draining potting soil, like a succulent mix, is perfect.
you might use fortified soils.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
In the wild, goldfish plants areepiphytes, a bang out of plant that grows upon other plants.
It will usually grow on a tree.
Water
During the summer, water generously and keep the soil continuously moist.
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In the winter, cut back on the water and allow the soil to become slightly drier.
This may encourage better blooming.
Be aware that the soil should never dry out completely, though soggy soil causesroot rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Goldfish houseplants fare best in room temperatures of 65 to 75F.
They need mild to moderate humidity and can be misted daily with room-temperature water.
Do not mist with cold water or it will damage the foliage.
In particularly dry environments, ahumidifiernear the plant is helpful.
Fertilizer
Feed weekly during the growing season with a weak liquidfertilizerthat includes micronutrients and encourages blooming.
Controlled-release fertilizer pellets are also excellent.
Varieties have red or yellow flowers.
Prune in early spring, just prior to the growing season.
In addition to removing dead and yellow leaves, you might also trim back branches that are too long.
To prune, cut at an angle just below a node at the end of the stem.
Pruning Tip
Looking for the best pruners for your goldfish plant?
We tested10 top-rated prunersin our Lab to verify your plant stays happy and healthy.
However, goldfish plants are more readily propagated from stem-tip cuttings placed in water and then in soil.
As a result, only repot the plant every two to three years.
Use succulent potting mix to give the roots room and air.
This plant cannot be kept outside in freezing temperatures.
Useinsecticidal soapto control the problem.
The goldfish plant is also prone to mold and fungus growth.
What Do Goldfish Plant Flowers Look and Smell Like?
Small tubular flowers look like little leaping goldfish when in bloom.
These quirky little blooms do not have any fragrance.
Feed weekly or every other week with weak fertilizer during its growing season to encourage flowering.
Caring for Goldfish Plant After It Blooms
Simply deadhead wilted flowers when you spot them.
This will encourage more growth and blooms.
Keep an eye out for these signs.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth is often sparked by overwatering.
Leggy growth can also happen if the plant is kept in a space where the humidity is too high.
These plants also prefer light, rich soil.
Give a goldfish plant medium indirect light for long periods daily.
You may need to supplement lighting with agrow light.
Water a goldfish plant when the top inch of the soil is dry.
With proper care, the lifespan of a goldfish plant is three to five years.
