Recently, I received some questions from plant enthusiasts: "My Goldfish Plant's leaves are wilting. Is it frozen?" "This plant looks pretty, but is it easy to care for?"
Goldfish plants really dislike the cold! Native to tropical regions, they naturally prefer warm environments. The ideal temperature range for them is between 15-25°C. Once the temperature drops below 10°C, the leaves will start to yellow, wilt, and feel soft to the touch. If the temperature drops below 5°C, things can get serious. Not only will the leaves fall off in large amounts, but the stems can also get frostbitten and turn black. In severe cases, the whole plant may die from the cold. So, friends in northern regions should pay attention to the temperature once autumn arrives, and southern friends shouldn't be careless in winter either, as occasional cold spells can also harm the plant.
Can the Goldfish Plant overwinter? The answer is yes, but it requires careful attention. To help it safely get through winter, there are three key things to do. First, "move it to a better spot." After the first frost, move it from drafty spots like balconies or windowsills to indoors, preferably near a south-facing window or radiator (but not directly on the radiator, as this can dry out the leaves). Make sure it gets 2-3 hours of sunlight daily—adequate sunlight will help prevent frost damage. Second, "control watering." In winter, its growth slows down and it needs less water. Water it once every 10-15 days, but before watering, check if the soil is completely dry on the surface. Water with room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots with cold tap water. Third, "don't disturb it." Avoid repotting or fertilizing during winter. Repotting can damage the roots, and fertilizing is ineffective because the plant can't absorb it and it could burn the roots. Just leave it be and wait for spring when temperatures stabilize above 15°C to gradually resume care.
Now, let’s answer another common question: Is the Goldfish Plant easy to care for? It’s not too hard, even for beginners, as long as you avoid two common mistakes. The first mistake is "overwatering." Its roots are quite delicate and sensitive to waterlogging, so avoid watering heavily like you would with pothos. Water only when the surface of the soil is dry, and water gently along the edges of the pot, ensuring no water accumulates at the base of the leaves and flower stems, as this can cause stem rot. The second mistake is "incorrect lighting." It prefers "indirect light," not direct strong sunlight. If you place it in direct sunlight on a balcony in summer, the leaves will quickly develop spots. However, don't keep it in a dark corner either, as this will cause it to become leggy, with sparse leaves and no flowers. It's best to place it in a bright, well-lit area like a living room or study where it gets indirect light.
Here’s a little tip for beginners: If you want your Goldfish Plant to grow lush and bloom more, occasionally mist the leaves (2-3 times a week in summer, avoid spraying in winter) to maintain humidity. This will keep the leaves greener. During the peak growth seasons of spring and autumn, fertilize it with diluted compound fertilizer every 2-3 weeks to help it grow strong stems and produce fuller "Goldfish flowers."
In summary, the Goldfish Plant is not overly "spoiled" and, with proper winter care, control of watering, and correct lighting, even beginners can keep it lush and blooming. Next time someone asks you, "Is the Goldfish Plant easy to care for? Can it survive the winter?" just share these tips with them, and they’ll surely work!
Leave a Reply