Hi - hoping someone here might have some tips.
I have a multiflora cutting that is about 2 ft tall. It dropped most of its leaves when I got it (only just rooted) but now it has something like 20 leaves, the largest being about 5" long.
I grow it indoors under a bank of fluorescent tubes (with the orchids) and the leaves are pretty close to the lights (this translates to bright indirect light, for those of you who grow under natural light).
It has sent out buds 5-6 times, but each time they abort and dry up. I'm wondering if this is just because the cutting is still young, or if it's a cultural problem. If it's cultural, my first guess would be that it needs more consistent water - currently the medium is pretty dry between waterings. But since the leaves are happy, I don't want to increase watering unless I know that's what it wants.
Would love some suggestions.
multiflora buds blasting
Hi, Hoya multiflora likes to be kept constantly moist and can drop its buds if kept too dry. Part of its natural range is the Philippine Islands and many hoyas originating from there seem to enjoy more water than most when actively growing as would be the case under your lights.
Other reasons for H. multiflora to blast its buds is if it's kept in a cold draft or in low humidity. I would guess that since you grow orchids alongside your H. multiflora, the humidity and cold drafts are less likely to be the problem. My bet is the buds are blasting because of alternating dryness at the roots between waterings, rather than being kept constantly moist.
Hope this helps, Matt
Hi Keyring,
I agree with Matt. H. Multiflora will drop blast its buds if kept to dry while they are forming. I have kept mine in a saucer with water. As soon the the water in the saucer dries up, I add more water.
Gemila
The one I had died and I watered it often (i thought). The roots will also die very quickly if the soil dries out. :(
YUP...sounds like you are right on the money, Matt!
Yeppers, consistent soil moisture is key.
Thank you all. I wanted to make sure before I start giving it more consistent moisture. (Didn't want to risk rotting the roots if that wasn't the cause.)
Hoping the next buds will develop :-)
If you happen to have a shady spot outside, that makes all the difference in the world with multilfora. Mine blooms continuously once moved out for the summer.
If it is inside, give it a shower often. If outside in the shade...hit it with a hose (not literally, but with a good squirt of water!!). Air circulation is also important.