How to grow Mimosa pudica? Growing methods and precautions

Mimosa pudica, also known as the sensitive plant or touch-me-not, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae family. Because its leaves are extremely sensitive, a gentle touch makes the leaflets immediately fold together left and right; with a slightly harder touch, even the pinnae and petioles droop to 60 degrees. At night it also assumes a dormant drooping state, and it reacts the same way to sudden cold or electrical stimulation. This morphological response makes people find it extremely interesting, as if it is shy, hence it is called Mimosa pudica. Below, the editor will introduce to you how exactly Mimosa pudica should be grown?

The growing environment of Mimosa pudica

Mimosa pudica prefers a warm, humid environment with ample sunlight, and is suited to well-drained sandy loam rich in organic matter. The plant is robust, grows rapidly, has strong adaptability, simple planting techniques, and extensive management. It is not strict about climate, sunlight, or soil requirements, so when cultivating it, fertile, loose sandy loam is best. During the plant's growth period, loosen the soil, weed, and water in a timely manner. For indoor pot cultivation, water once a day in summer. Fertilize once a month; if you do not want the plant shape to become too large, reduce the amount of fertilizer, or even do not fertilize.

Mimosa pudica is relatively easy to propagate, generally by sowing. Sowing can be done all year round, but early spring in February, sown in pots indoors, is best. When sowing, evenly scatter the seeds on fine soil and cover with about 1.5 cm of soil. At a temperature of about 18°C, seedlings can emerge in about 10 days. To promote earlier germination, it is advisable to soak the seeds in a 800-fold dilution of Xin Gao Zhi Mo for one day before sowing. Mimosa pudica basically has no pests or diseases. If there are slugs, they can be controlled with fresh lime powder in the morning.

Growing Mimosa pudica at home

After sowing, place the pot in a 15-20°C environment, and seedlings will emerge in about 10 days. When the seedlings grow to 5-6 cm tall, transplant them separately with a soil ball; when they grow to 10 cm, replant them into a slightly larger pot.

1. Water: It likes moisture; water once a day during the summer growing period.

2. Fertilizer: Apply a topdressing once every half month during the seedling stage. If you do not want the plant shape to become too large, reduce the amount of fertilizer.

3. Soil: It requires deep, fertile, moist soil.

4. Temperature: It is not cold-tolerant and likes a warm climate; in winter the plant dies back on its own.

5. Light: It likes ample light and tolerates partial shade slightly.