Ming aralia care: watering, light and repotting
Also called polyscias, polyscias fabian · Polyscias fruticosa · Araliaceae family
12 d in winter
How often to water the ming aralia?
Allow about 7 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 12 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Hates cold, draughts and being moved: find it a warm spot and leave it there.
Misting every 4 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The ming aralia likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 3 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 3–6 ft (1–2 m).
Toxic to cats and dogs. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Heavy leaf drop
Cause: Cold, a draught or being moved. What to do: Keep it above 64 °F (18 °C) without moving it.
Yellow leaves
Cause: Too much water. What to do: Let the top inch or two of soil dry out.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the ming aralia?
About every 7 days in spring and summer, and every 12 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the ming aralia?
The ming aralia likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the ming aralia?
Yes, misting every 4 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the ming aralia?
Every 3 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the ming aralia safe?
The ming aralia is toxic to cats and dogs. Keep the plant out of their reach and, if they eat some, call a vet.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Rather for experienced growers: it's demanding about watering, light or humidity. Some experience helps.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.