Inch plant care

Tradescantia zebrina needs bright light with no direct sun. Check the soil before you water.

This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.

Care at a glance

Botanical name: Tradescantia zebrina
Other names: Wandering jew, Silver inch plant
Light: Bright light, no direct sun. Put it in bright, indirect light. Gentle morning sun is fine.
Soil check: Every 5 to 9 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
Humidity: Medium humidity
Feeding: Feed once a month in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.

How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?

Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.

Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.

Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.

Use a light potting soil with some perlite.

Faded stripes and long, bare stems mean too little light. Move the plant closer to a window.
Pinch the stem tips. This makes the plant fuller.
Put cut stems in water. They root in a few weeks.
The sap can irritate skin. Wash your hands after you prune.

Toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets and children.