What to do when the antler begonia (Lycium-like succulent, Monilaria moniliformis) becomes leggy? Teach you the correct way to handle it
Monilaria moniliformis is a highly ornamental succulent native to parts of South Africa. Its leaves are opposite, highly succulent, and pinkish-green in color. In winter, this plant even produces small white or pink flowers, making it very beautiful. But as a succulent, Monilaria moniliformis often develops the same leggy growth as most succulents. So what should we do?
I. Causes of leggy growth in Monilaria moniliformis
First, Qinnongwang will introduce the causes of leggy growth in Monilaria moniliformis. Qinnongwang has summarized two main points here: excessive watering and insufficient light. Let's take a look together below.
1. Excessive watering
Many beginners, when growing plants, cannot bear to see the soil dry out. As soon as the water decreases a little, they immediately want to replenish it. In fact, this is very bad for succulents. Most succulents are drought-tolerant and afraid of waterlogging. When watered too much normally, the roots quickly transport water to the leaves, causing the leaves to keep elongating. This is how leggy succulents form.
2. Insufficient light
Monilaria moniliformis likes a sunny, abundant-light environment. When growing it, place it on a balcony or windowsill with light, and with the nourishment of water and fertilizer, Monilaria moniliformis can grow very healthily. However, if Monilaria moniliformis is placed in a shaded environment, because of the lack of sunlight, it will keep elongating, causing leggy growth.
II. What to do when Monilaria moniliformis becomes leggy
1. Water reasonably
Since excessive watering is one of the causes of leggy growth in Monilaria moniliformis, we must master the correct watering method. If leggy growth is discovered in time, stop watering immediately, and the leggy phenomenon can be alleviated. When watering in the future, carry out the principle of “do not water until dry, and water thoroughly when watering.”
2. Beheading
After Monilaria moniliformis becomes leggy, the original plant becomes very ugly, but fortunately this plant has strong propagation ability and can be beheaded and re-cuttings. Cut off the top of Monilaria moniliformis, wait for the wound to dry, and then carry out cuttings. This can also turn one pot into two pots.
3. Reasonable light
During usual care, pay attention to giving it sufficient light. Especially in spring, autumn, and winter, which are the key periods for the growth of Monilaria moniliformis, light must be guaranteed. If light conditions are limited, watering can be appropriately controlled.
The above is what Qinnongwang has prepared for everyone regarding the causes and solutions for leggy growth in Monilaria moniliformis. We hope it can be helpful to everyone.