Care & Maintenance of Crown of Thorns

Planting Your Crown of Thorns

 

• Pot Size: Use a small pot, 3-inch diameter for starter plants and 4-inch diameter for bigger plants, and stake if necessary.

 

• Watering: Water your plant when the surface is dry to the touch. Keep the soil constantly moist but not soggy.

 

• Sunlight: Place your plant where it receives good sunlight, at least 4 hours daily.

 

Repotting Your Crown of Thorns plant

 

• Timing: After a month or two, when your plant is well established, repot it in a decorative flowerpot of your choice.

 

• Potting Mix: Use a good potting mix. Do not add fertilizer when using a commercial potting mix as these mixes already contain enough fertilizers. Only replenish fertilizer after 4 or 6 months (please refer to the information on the fertilizer bag).

 

Fertilizing Your Crown of Thorns

 

• Frequency: Fertilize sparingly. A pinch of smart-release balanced fertilizer can be incorporated into the potting mix during repotting.

 

• Type: Use a liquid balanced fertilizer at half strength every 10 days during the warmest months and/or during copious blooming.

 

• Winter Care: Suspend fertilizing during the winter when natural light levels are low and temperatures dip below 35°F.

 

Maintaining Blooms

 

• Water Control: Keep your plant away from garden sprinklers.

 

• Shade: Move your plant into a shadier area during the long, hot days of summer.