Q.2 House Plants Struggling
I have a question about 2 of my plants: First, my purple passion. This was one of my first ever house plants, and I admit, I didn’t care for it very well. At this point, I’ve figured out that I need to prune it frequently to keep it bushy. However, it lost a lot of its lower leaves. Is there anything I can do to get the bottom looking better? If I propagate from the leggy clippings, will they turn into a leggy plant, or will they bush out a little? Second, my new Calathea Dottie. I have 2 leaves that are fading, and a new one unfurling, but the color is the same pale as the 2 that are faded. I just purchased it, but did not repot. I watered it once, when it got dry, but the leaf had already started to fade. Is the plant adjusting to its new home? Or do I need to do something different? It’s in a room with a north window, and an east window, but it is not directly in front of either. Thanks!
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Pinching out the growing tips should be enough to induce side shoots. Your plant may have reached maturity, so you will want to get some cuttings going. The new cuttings should not grow leggy as long as you pinch the tips. (just pinch off new growth occasionally about 1/2 inch) It looks pretty good to me. Though it is a trailing plant and could be longer. You also could go up a size in a pot if you haven't repotted in a year or two.
Your calathea may need more moisture. They should be kept moist, but not wet. And they need humidity. Mist it a few times a week or put it on a pebble tray. It also is adjusting to its new home as you say. I found photos online that also showed lighter new leaves so maybe they darken with age. And the older ones can be removed when they look past their prime.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/purple-passion-plant/purple-passion-houseplants.htm
