Does Oxalis prefer shade or sun?

Oxalis is a plant with unique and brightly colored leaves. It is very beautiful when it blooms and has high ornamental value. Many people have potted plants in their homes. So does Oxalis prefer shade or sun? Let’s learn more about it below.

Does Oxalis prefer shade or sun?

Oxalis prefers a growing environment with plenty of sunlight. If it is kept in a dark place for a long time, it is easy to have phenomena such as excessive growth of branches and leaves, loose plant shape, weak petioles, and few flowers due to lack of light, which greatly reduces its ornamental effect. When caring for it in spring, try to let it get more sun. Adequate light can not only promote photosynthesis of the plant, but also promote the differentiation of flower buds, making the plant fuller and the flowers more numerous and colorful.

How to grow Oxalis?

1. Watering

Oxalis likes moisture and can tolerate drought, but is not tolerant to waterlogging. If watering is too frequent, it is easy to cause waterlogging, root rot and yellow leaves. Gradually increase the frequency and amount of watering according to the actual growth status of the plant, the dryness of the potting soil and weather changes. Watering can follow the principle of watering when the soil is dry. Water it thoroughly once you see the surface of the potting soil becomes dry. Try to keep the potting soil slightly moist and avoid long-term water accumulation in the pot.

2. Fertilization

As long as the temperature is suitable and the plant grows well, you can apply a thin compound liquid fertilizer every 15 to 20 days. 1 to 2 months before flowering, you can apply 1 to 2 times of thin phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to supplement nutrients and promote the differentiation of flower buds, thereby increasing the amount and quality of flowering, making it bloom more and more beautiful.

3. Ventilation

Oxalis has a compact and plump plant shape, and its branches and leaves are relatively dense. If it is kept in a damp, poorly ventilated room for a long time, it will easily breed bacteria and be infected by diseases and pests. You can loosen the soil regularly to increase the plant's growth space, prevent the soil from becoming compacted and promote root respiration.

4. Temperature

Oxalis prefers warm conditions, but during bud formation and flowering, slightly lower temperatures may help stimulate bud development. Try placing your wood sorrel in a slightly cooler location, such as lower indoor temperatures or a shady area outdoors.

5. Pruning

Oxalis grows quickly and spreads easily. If you wish to control its growth, you can regularly prune or remove overly long stems and leaves. This helps maintain the plant's compact form.

6. Repotting

If the Oxalis grows too large in the original pot and the roots become crowded, you can consider changing the potting soil regularly or dividing the plant. Refreshing the root system and providing new soil can improve plant growth and health.

That’s it