Buyer's Guide
They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they share certain characteristics that make them easy to grow and maintain. This article will help you decide whether a hoya is right for you, and what type of hoya would work best in your space.
Hoyas are tropical flowering shrubs native to South America. They grow best in warm climates like Florida and Hawaii, but will survive in cooler regions if given proper conditions. Hoyas are easy to maintain and require little maintenance once established. The most common varieties include Hoya 'Carnosa' and Hoya 'Fascination'. Both varieties produce beautiful flowers throughout the year. In addition to producing lovely blooms, hoyas provide many benefits for both humans and pets.
Hoyas need bright light and lots of water during the growing season. During winter months, they should be placed inside an unheated garage or shed where they can receive some natural sunlight. If you live in a cold climate, you may want to consider purchasing a heat mat to help protect your hoya from freezing temperatures. You can also purchase a special greenhouse to house your hoya during colder seasons. It is important to fertilize your hoya regularly to promote healthy growth. Fertilizer should be applied at least twice per month during the growing season.
Hoyas are beautiful houseplants that grow in tropical climates around the world. They thrive best in warm temperatures, but they do fine in cooler areas as long as they receive adequate sunlight. They require regular watering during dry periods. But, once established, they only need occasional waterings during hot weather.
They look lovely in any home, indoors or outdoors. Their leaves turn red in autumn and yellow in spring. When grown outside, they flower in early summer. Then, they produce green berries which ripen to orange before falling off. These berries attract birds and other insects, which feed on the fallen fruit.
Hoyas are very tolerant of neglect. However, they prefer bright light and frequent feeding. They also appreciate humidity. Watering them daily is recommended. During winter months, they can survive without water until the soil dries out again in spring.
In addition to being attractive, hoyas are useful. Some species are edible. Others contain chemicals that can be used medicinally. Still others have been found to repel mosquitoes.
The most common type of hoya sold today is the 'carnosa'. It has large, glossy dark green leaves. Its flowers are white and fragrant. Carnosas are usually propagated from cuttings taken from mature plants. They can also be purchased from nurseries. Carnosas are slow growing. Once planted, they take several years to become fully mature.
Plantains have smaller, paler green leaves. They are slower growers than carnosas. They are typically propagated from seedlings. Plantains are generally easier to grow than carnosas. They also tolerate colder conditions better.
Both types of hoyas can be kept inside year round. They can withstand temperatures down to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. Outside, they can handle temperatures as cold as 20 degrees F. They can also tolerate temperatures above 90 degrees F. But, they cannot stand direct sunlight. To avoid scorching, place them where they will get indirect sunlight.
Plantains are particularly hardy. They can survive in pots placed near windows. Carnosas must be protected from frost. They can be left outdoors during mild winters. But, they shouldn't be exposed to freezing temperatures. Otherwise, they could die.
When purchasing hoyas, select specimens that appear healthy. Look for firm stems and leaves. Avoid plants with wilted foliage or brown spots on the leaves. Also, check the roots for signs of rot. Roots should be moist and free of cracks. If possible, purchase plants from reputable dealers.
Hoyas are beautiful houseplants that add color and texture to any home. They come in many different shapes, sizes, colors, and varieties. When selecting a hoya, it's important to select one that is healthy and thriving. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting a hoya:
Look for a hoya that is healthy. A healthy hoya should have vibrant green leaves and stems. You'll want to purchase a hoya that looks like it's growing strong and healthy. This means that the roots should be firmly rooted in the potting mix and the stem should be thick and sturdy. If the leaves appear yellowish or brownish, then the hoya may be sick or stressed. Purchase a hoya that appears healthy and vigorous.
Purchase a hoya that is easy to grow. Hoya plants do best if they receive plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Select a hoya that is small enough to sit in a 12" x 12" container. If you plan on placing your hoya outdoors, then you'll want to select a hoya that is large enough to withstand outdoor conditions. Make sure that the potting mix drains freely so that excess moisture doesn't accumulate inside the pot.
Select a hoya that is appropriate for your climate. Certain types of hoya thrive better in certain climates. For example, hoyas prefer warm temperatures, so those who live in warmer areas would do well to select a hoya that is suited to their climate. Conversely, hoyas do best in cooler climates, so those living in colder regions might want to select a hoya that is suitable for their area.
Consider the size of the space where you intend to place your hoya. If you plan on keeping your hoya indoors, then you'll want to select a hoya that is compact enough to fit within the confines of your indoor space. On the other hand, if you plan on planting your hoya outside, then you'll want to select a hoya that is larger so that it can survive in the elements.
Plant type. Hoya plants are available in many shapes and sizes. Some types grow into trees while others stay small shrubs. The shape of the leaves and flowers can also vary greatly. This means there are plenty of options when it comes to finding the right hoya plant for your needs.
Size. Hoya plants come in a variety of sizes. Smaller plants tend to do well indoors, while larger ones work great outdoors. Make sure you select a plant that has enough room to grow. You'll also want to check if the roots are spread evenly across the pot.
Lighting. Most hoya plants prefer bright light. However, they can tolerate dimmer lighting conditions. If you plan to place them outside, make sure to pick a spot where they'll receive full sun. They may even need more sunlight than other indoor plants.
Watering. Hoya plants thrive when given regular watering. Water regularly during the summer months, especially if you live in a hot climate. During winter, give them less frequent waterings. Check the soil periodically to ensure it doesn't dry out.
Fertilizer. Hoya plants love fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilization program to feed your plant throughout its growing season. Fertilize once a month in spring and again in late fall.
Pests. While most pests aren't harmful to hoyas, aphids can cause damage. Keep an eye out for these insects and remove them immediately.
Potting mixture. Hoya plants enjoy using a special potting mixture. Follow the instructions included with your plant to create this mixture. Once mixed, add the appropriate amount of peat moss to moisten the soil. Add additional peat moss as needed until the mixture feels damp.
Soaking. After planting your new hoya, soak the container in warm water for several minutes. This allows the soil to settle and prevents root rot.
Hoya plants are commonly known as spider lilies. They grow in tropical climates and thrive in warm temperatures. Hoya plants are native to South America and were brought to Hawaii by early Polynesian settlers. Today, hoyas are grown throughout the world. Hoya Plants are easily propagated through cuttings and seeds. When growing hoya plants, you should use a well drained soil rich in organic matter. Watering should be done regularly and fertilization should occur every two weeks.
Hoya carnosa. Carnosa means “red” in Spanish. This variety produces red flowers. Carnosas are the easiest variety to grow. They are also the cheapest variety of hoya plants. Carnosas are good choices for beginners because they produce large blooms and are easy to maintain. Carnosas are also resistant to pests and diseases. Carnosas are also suitable for indoor cultivation.
Hoya coccinea. Coccinella means “scarlet” in Latin. Cocciena means “small scarlet” in Italian. This variety produces bright orange flowers. Coccinela is a favorite among experienced growers due to its vibrant colors. Coccinela requires less light than other varieties of hoya plants. It is also the most susceptible to disease and pest attacks. Coccinela is therefore not recommended for beginner gardeners.
Hoya crassifolia. Crassifolia means “thick leafed” in Latin. This variety grows up to 2 feet tall. Its leaves are broad and leathery. Crassifolias are excellent for container gardening. These are also easy to propagate. Crassifolia is highly tolerant of heat and drought conditions. It is also resistant to insect infestations and diseases.
Hoya glabra. Glaber means “globose” in Latin. Glabra means “smooth” in English. This variety produces white flowers. Glabras are the largest variety of hoya plants. They grow up to 6 feet tall. Glabras are also the most cold sensitive variety of hoya plants.
FAQs
Hoya plants originated in Japan, where they were first cultivated more than 2, 000 years ago. They have been grown in Japan ever since.
There are two main varieties of hoya plants – the red hoya and the white hoya. Both varieties grow in similar ways, but each has its own unique characteristics.
Both varieties of hoya plants are easy to grow and require little maintenance. However, the red hoya tends to flower earlier than the white hoya, making it easier to identify when it blooms.
Hoya plants are popular among gardeners because they produce beautiful flowers year round. Their leaves remain green all winter long, even during cold weather. And their flowers bloom throughout the spring and summer months.
Hoya plants tend to grow between 4 and 6 feet tall. Each stem will branch out into multiple stems, creating a bush-like appearance. These branches often develop clusters of tiny pinkish-white flowers at the end.
Growing hoya plants provides you with fresh cuttings, which can then be planted in your home garden. Once established, hoya plants provide colorful foliage and blossoming flowers throughout the spring and summer.
While hoya plants are relatively easy to grow, they do require a lot of water. If you live in a dry climate, you may want to consider planting another type of plant instead.
Water regularly. Watering once every week is enough for most hoya plants. But if you notice brown spots on the leaves, watering twice per week is better.
Prune your hoya plants occasionally. Pruning helps to promote new growth and keeps your plants looking neat.
Don’t fertilize your hoya plants. Fertilizing encourages lush growth, but hoya plants already get plenty of nutrients from the soil.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects hoya plants. Powdery mildew appears as powdery yellow spots on the underside of the leaves.
Another disease that can attack hoya plants is anthracnose. Anthracnose looks like dark spots on the leaves. When left untreated, anthracnose can spread quickly and destroy entire plants.
Slugs and snails love to munch on hoya plants. To protect your plants, use slug pellets around your hoya plants.
