Caring for Oxalis Plants Outside: Tips and Tricks

Oxalis plants are known for their vibrant colors and unique clover-shaped leaves. These plants are popular among gardeners because of their ability to thrive both indoors and outdoors. If you have decided to plant oxalis outside, it's essential to know how to care for them properly. Here are some tips and tricks that will help you care for your oxalis plants outside.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in caring for oxalis plants outside is choosing the right location. Oxalis plants prefer partial shade to full sun. Therefore, you should choose a spot where the plant will receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. Additionally, make sure the location has well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.

Watering Your Oxalis Plants

Watering your oxalis plant is crucial to keep it healthy. However, overwatering or underwatering can lead to problems. The best way to water your oxalis plant outside is by checking the soil moisture level. You can do this by sticking your finger into the soil up to one inch deep. If the soil feels dry, water the plant until the soil feels moist but not waterlogged. In hot weather, you may need to water your oxalis plant more frequently to prevent it from drying out.

Fertilizing Your Oxalis Plants

Fertilizing your oxalis plant is another essential aspect of caring for it outside. You can use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 once a month during the growing season. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn the plant's roots.

Pruning Your Oxalis Plants

Pruning your oxalis plant outside is necessary to keep its shape and promote new growth. You can prune your oxalis plant by snipping off the dead or yellowing leaves using sharp scissors or pruning shears. Additionally, you can pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage the plant to bush out and produce more foliage.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Oxalis plants outside are susceptible to pests and diseases like any other plant. The most common pests that attack oxalis plants are mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. As for diseases, oxalis plants can suffer from fungal infections like powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these diseases, make sure to water the plant correctly and avoid overcrowding.

An Oxalis plant growing in a pot.

Winter Care for Your Oxalis Plants

If you live in an area with harsh winters, you need to take extra care of your oxalis plants. During the winter months, oxalis plants go dormant, and their foliage dies back. To prepare your plant for winter, stop fertilizing it and reduce watering. Once the foliage dies back, you can cut it off and store the bulbs in a cool, dry place until spring.

Yellow Oxalis plant flowers.

Caring for oxalis plants outside requires attention and care, but the results are worth it. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your oxalis plant thrives and produces beautiful blooms. Remember to choose the right location, water and fertilize your plant correctly, prune it regularly, and protect it from pests and diseases. With proper care, your oxalis plant can be a beautiful addition to your outdoor space.

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