May 14, 2010, Newsletter Issue #444: Variegated Leaf Plants Care

Tip of the Week

Fertilization of variegated plants should be done with caution. Too much nitrogen can cause the variegation to disappear.


Look for a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen or simply top dress your plant with compost from time to time.


Do not expect variegated plants to perform the same way a similar plant will. Many variegated plants are slightly weaker than their conventional green counterpart.


Sometimes variegated plants will need frequent trimming to keep the maximum amount of variegation showing.


The more light that variegated plants get, the more variegation you will see. Variegated plants that prefer shade will typically tolerate more sun than the typical green ones.


Take hostas for an example. Some of the variegated hostas will tolerate much more sun than the plain green ones. Variegated plants with brown, maroon or purple variegation will simply look dirty green if they are not given enough light.


On the other side of the coin, variegated plants, even those that can be grown in full sun, actually prefer some sun during part of the day.


Don’t be afraid to experiment before planting your new variegated plant. Put it in several places in the garden allowing it to sit there for several days so you can observe any changes before you decide where to plant it.


It is much easier to move a pot than to dig and move a plant. Finally when planting variegated plants in a border remember to exercise caution, because unlike all green plants which can be put side by side, you do not want variegated plants right next to one another.

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