Both the Mühlenbeckia axillaris (black-fruited wire bush) and the Mühlenbeckia complexa (white-fruited wire bush) can be kept as houseplants. With their climbing shoots, they look good in a hanging basket or in another elevated location.
How do I care for a Muehlenbeckia as a houseplant?
Mühlenbeckia as a houseplant prefers a bright and airy location, permeable substrate and regular watering. Avoid waterlogging and fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season. It can be kept in hanging baskets or with climbing aids.
Where does the Mühlenbeckia really feel at home?
The Mühlenbeckias like it airy and bright. They tolerate light shade better than the blazing midday sun. If they are too dark or too cool, they will only grow weakly to moderately. They lose their leaves in drought or frost. The soil should definitely be well-drained, this reduces the risk of waterlogging.
How do I care for the Mühlenbeckia in the apartment?
Water your Mühlenbeckia regularly because the root ball must not dry out. The warmer the room in which the Mühlenbeckia is located, the more water the plant will need. In winter the water requirement is generally lower, but even then the bale must not become completely dry. It is therefore better to water regularly in smaller quantities.
From April to September, fertilize the Mühlenbeckia at least once a month with a commercially available liquid fertilizer (€6.00 on Amazon). You can achieve the ideal nutrient distribution if you mix the fertilizer into the irrigation water. A good alternative, especially for forgetful gardeners, is to use a slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Do I have to prune my Mühlenbeckia?
The Mühlenbeckia does not need to be pruned regularly, but it doesn't mind a cut either. This means you can easily cut off shoots that disrupt the overall look or have simply become too long. The Mühlenbeckia can also be easily shaped using a trellis.
Tips for keeping Mühlenbeckia indoors:
- plant in permeable substrate
- Create a drainage layer in the pot
- possibly provided with a climbing aid
- good for hanging baskets
- place bright and airy
- water regularly, but not too much
- Avoid waterlogging
- fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season
- alternatively use long-term fertilizer
- cut back if necessary
Tip
The Mühlenbeckia is an excellent hanging plant with its long shoots and small leaves, but can also be given an interesting shape with a trellis.
