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Oxalis plants are a popular choice for gardeners looking for an easy-to-care-for perennial. With so many varieties available, there is sure to be one that will fit your gardening needs. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to properly water and propagate these plants, as well as choose the best location to plant them in your garden.
If you’re looking for an interesting and beautiful plant to add to your garden, look no further than the Oxalis plant. Also known as Wood Sorrel, these plants are easy to care for and propagate, and come in a variety of colors and varieties. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about Oxalis plants: how to water them, where to plant them, what kind of soil they need, whether or not they are hardy, what other names they go by, whether or not they make good indoor plants, how often they need to be fertilized, and more!
Photo by Anna Kumpan on Unsplash
Oxalis care guide
One of the best things about Oxalis plants is that they are perennials, meaning that they will come back year after year. However, some varieties are more hardy than others, so it’s important to do your research before selecting a plant. Most Oxalis plants prefer partial shade to full sun, but there are a few varieties that can tolerate full sun.
When planting your Oxalis, be sure to select a location that has well-drained soil. They do not like wet feet, so avoid planting them in areas where the soil tends to stay wet for extended periods of time. Fertilize your plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer,
Colors and varieties of Oxalis plants
There are a wide variety of colors and varieties available when it comes to Oxalis plants. Some of the most popular include:
- Purple Shamrock – This plant has deep purple leaves with three leaflets per leaf. It blooms small, white flowers in the spring.
- Wood Sorrel – As its name suggests, this plant has a woodsy smell and is often used in perfumes. It has green leaves with three leaflets per leaf and blooms small, yellow flowers.
- Pink Wood Sorrel – This variety has pink leaves with three leaflets per leaf. It blooms small, white flowers in the spring.
- Yellow Oxalis – This plant has yellow leaves with three leaflets per leaf. It blooms small, white flowers in the spring.
How to water Oxalis plants
One of the best things about Oxalis plants is that they are very drought tolerant. In fact, you can often go weeks without watering them and they will be just fine. However, during periods of extended drought, it’s a good idea to water them sparingly. Water your plants once or twice a week during the growing season, and be sure to give them plenty of water when they are blooming.
How to propagate Oxalis plants
One of the easiest ways to propagate Oxalis plants is by division. Simply dig up the plant and divide it into two or three sections, making sure each section has a few roots attached. You can also propagate them by taking cuttings from new growth. Insert the cutting into moist soil and keep it in a warm, sunny location until it rooted.
Best USDA zones to plant Oxalis plants
Most varieties of Oxalis plants prefer USDA zones eight through eleven, although there are a few that can tolerate colder climates. When selecting a plant, be sure to check the USDA zone rating to make sure it will grow in your area.
Do Oxalis plants need fertilizer?
Yes, Oxalis plants need to be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Be sure to use a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen and high in potassium and phosphorus.
Photo by Susan Wilkinson on Unsplash
Temperature and light requirements for Oxalis plants
Most Oxalis plants prefer partial shade to full sun, although there are a few varieties that can tolerate full sun. When planting your plant, be sure to select a location that has the right amount of sunlight. They do not like wet feet, so avoid planting them in areas where the soil tends to stay wet for extended periods of time.
Pests and diseases that affect Oxalis plants
Oxalis plants are generally pest and disease-free, but there are a few pests and diseases to watch out for:
· Slugs – These slimy creatures can quickly damage young plants. To protect your plants, use slug bait or place copper tape around the base of the plant.
· aphids – These tiny insects can be a nuisance, but they are easy to control with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
· Rot – This disease is caused by overwatering and can quickly kill your plants. To prevent rot, make sure to water your plants properly and avoid watering them too often.
Height and width of Oxalis plants
Most Oxalis plants range in height from six to twelve inches, with a width of around eight inches. There are a few varieties that can get as tall as eighteen inches, but for the most part they stay relatively small.
Humidity requirements for Oxalis plants
Oxalis plants do not have any specific humidity requirements, but they do prefer a moist environment. Be sure to water your plants regularly and avoid letting the soil dry out.
Flowering time for Oxalis plants
Most Oxalis plants will flower from spring through early summer. There are a few varieties that will continue to flower throughout the summer, but for the most part they bloom for a short period of time.
When to plant Oxalis plants
Oxalis plants can be planted in the spring or fall. For best results, plant them in a location that receives partial shade and has moist soil.
Can I plant Oxalis plants in pots?
Yes, Oxalis plants can be planted in pots. In fact, they make a great indoor plant. They require very little care and will bloom for several months.
Indoors
They are a good choice for indoor planting because they need very little water and do not require much light.
Are Oxalis plants hardy?
Yes, most varieties of Oxalis are hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Are Oxalis plants toxic?
No, Oxalis plants are not toxic. But they can be irritating if it is consumed (stem, leaves, flowers) for both pets and humans.
Watering
Water your plants once or twice a week during the growing season, and be sure to give them plenty of water when they are blooming.
Other names for Oxalis plants
Oxalis plants are also commonly known as shamrocks, wood sorrels, and sour grass.
Are Oxalis plants hardy?
Yes, most Oxalis plants are hardy and can tolerate a variety of conditions. However, there are a few varieties that are more sensitive to cold weather and should be planted in USDA zones eight through eleven.
Can I plant Oxalis in the shade?
Yes, many people choose to plant their Oxalis plants in partial shade. This will help keep the soil moist and prevent them from wilting.
Is Oxalis a great ground cover?
Yes, Oxalis makes a great ground cover because it is a fast growing plant. It will quickly fill in any areas that are bare and can be used to control weeds.
Propagation
Oxalis plants can be propagated by division or from seed. To propagate by division, simply divide up the clump of plants into individual plants and replant.
When to propagate?
You can propagate your Oxalis plants at any time, but it is best to do it in the spring or fall when the plant is not blooming.
Oxalis: ideal for your rock garden
If you are looking for a low maintenance plant that will add color to your garden, then Oxalis is the perfect choice. With its bright green leaves and cheerful yellow flowers, it is sure to bring cheer to any garden. So if you are looking for a beautiful addition to your rock garden, be sure to include Oxalis in your plans.
How to plant Oxalis bulbs
When planting your Oxalis bulbs, be sure to plant them with the pointy end up. They should be planted two inches deep and six inches apart.
How to force Oxalis bulbs
If you want to force your Oxalis bulbs to bloom, you can do so by placing them in a cold environment that is very bright.
You can also force oxalis bulbs indoors by putting them in a bright room with cool temperatures, like 55° to 60°F. Keep the soil wet but not too wet, and they will grow. They don’t need any hardiness (vernalization) before they grow.
False shamrock plant
The false shamrock plant (Oxalis triangularis) is a beautiful addition to any garden. With its purple leaves and white flowers, it is sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees it. This plant does well in partial shade and can tolerate cold temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is it a weed?
No, Oxalis triangularis is not a weed. It is an ornamental plant that can be used to add color and interest to any garden.
What is the difference between clover and Oxalis?
Clover had more had more oval shaped leaves, Oxalis has smaller shaped leaves.
Conclusion
Oxalis plants make a great addition to any garden, and with a little bit of care they will provide years of enjoyment. Be sure to select the right variety for your climate, give them plenty of water when they are blooming, and fertilize them once a month during the growing season. They are also easy to propagate, so you can share your plants with friends and family. With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy these beautiful plants for years to come.
