Paveena Spooner / Getty Images
Semi-succulent, trailing turtle vines are low-maintenance, compact, and fast-growing.
These forgiving plants can handle irregular watering, provided you position them in partial shade and well-draining soil.
Keep these plants in partial shade outdoors or bright but indirect light indoors for the healthiest growth.
Paveena Spooner / Getty Images
Soil
Turtle vines arent too fussy about soil, provided it is well-draining.
When growing this species indoors, select a commercial succulent mix or add something like perlite to enhance drainage.
Always drain away any excess standing waterthese plants are prone toroot rotif the soil is soggy.
Indoors, they appreciate temperatures of around 65F to 85F.
Amending soil with organic matter is often sufficient when growing turtle vines outdoors.
Indoors, apply a monthly software of a general-purpose fertilizer diluted to half-strength from spring through fall.
However, occasional light pruning helps to maintain a bushy form rather than a sprawling and leggy one.
Pinch the stems back between two leaves to tidy things up.
Propagating Turtle Vines
Its easy to add new turtle vines to your collection bypropagating from stem cuttings.
To do this, follow the steps below at any time, but ideally in the spring or fall.
Common Pests and Plant Diseases
Turtle vines arent bothered by many serious pests or diseases.
However, spider mites can be a problem, especially when conditions are hot and dry.
Using a gentle water spray, you canget rid of spider mitesbefore infestations get out of control.
Alternatively, apply aninsecticidal soapor anorganic neem oil spray.
Common Problems with Turtle Vines
Turtle vines are forgiving and easy-to-growhouseplants for beginners.
But if you dont offer them the conditions they thrive in, problems can arise.
Below are some of the early warning signs that you oughta make adjustments.
Brown Leaves
Sometimes your turtle vineplant leaves can turn brown.
This is often because too much intense, direct sun is scorching them.
Turtle vines are most commonly grown as houseplants.
The fast-growing and densely branched turtle vine is listed as invasive in South Africa, China, and Cuba.
2006;17(1):70-80.
Callisia Repens.Library of Arizona Landscape Plants.
