Dwarf China Doll Tree

Description

ITS BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS ARE INTOXICATINGLY FRAGRANT

The Radermachera is a compact, evergreen shrub that is perfect for indoor and patio gardening, displaying lush, shiny foliage with intricate, fern-like leaves. The ‘Kunming’ variety is particularly appealing for its faster growth and robust nature. It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, requiring moderate watering.

Caring for your China Doll Plant

This Asian native is a popular choice among indoor gardening enthusiasts for its aesthetic appeal and relative ease of maintenance. Despite being a semi-tropical plant, it adapts well to indoor conditions when provided the right care. Below, we explore an all-inclusive guide to caring for this beautiful plant.

Light

China Doll Plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. An east or north-facing window would be ideal. However, they can adapt to lower light conditions, but the growth may slow, and the leaves may turn yellow and drop. These plants thrive in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C), and they don’t do well with sudden temperature changes. Try to keep the plant away from drafty windows or vents.

Soil

Radermachera sinica prefers a light, well-draining potting mix. A mixture of regular potting soil, perlite, and a bit of peat moss can provide the ideal environment for the roots. China Doll Plant does not like to be repotted often, so when choosing a pot, select a larger one that will accommodate the plant’s growth for a few years. A pot with good drainage holes is a must to avoid waterlogged soil and root rot.

Water

Watering is crucial for the China Doll Plant. It prefers consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogging. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering during the cooler months. Overwatering can lead to root rot, indicated by yellowing leaves, while underwatering may cause leaf drop.

Fertilization

The China Doll Plant benefits from regular feeding during the growing season (spring to early fall). A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer applied every two weeks can help support healthy growth. However, during winter, reduce feeding to once a month, as the plant goes into a semi-dormant state. Over-fertilization can lead to salt build-up in the soil, causing leaf burn or other damage to the plant.

Pruning

China Doll Plants tend to grow quite tall and might become leggy if not pruned. Regular pruning helps maintain a bushy, compact shape. The best time to prune is in the spring, just before the new growth season. Be cautious, though, because each stem carries one leaf cluster – if you prune all of them, the plant could have trouble regrowing.

Repotting

As previously mentioned, the China Doll Plant does not like to be repotted frequently. However, if you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant’s growth slowing significantly, it might be time for a bigger pot. The best time to repot is in early spring, just before the plant starts its new growth cycle.

Pest and Disease Management

China Doll Plants are not particularly prone to pests, but they can occasionally be bothered by aphids, spider mites, or mealybugs. Regularly check the undersides of leaves for any signs of these pests. If you notice any, you can wash them off with a mild soap solution or use an appropriate insecticide.

In terms of diseases, root rot due to overwatering is the most common issue. Ensure that the plant has well-draining soil and that you’re not watering too frequently.

Propagation

Propagation of China Doll Plants can be a bit tricky, but it’s definitely worth the effort. The best method is stem cuttings. In early spring, take a 4-6 inch cutting just below a leaf node. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone, then plant it in a small pot filled with a mixture of perlite and peat moss. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse and keep the cutting in a warm, bright place.