The Wandering Dude—formerly known as Wandering Jew and scientifically known as Tradescantia—is a popular houseplant beloved for its vibrant purple, green, and sometimes silver-striped foliage. While it’s beautiful and easy to grow, there are some key care tips that will help your plant thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or new to the world of Tradescantia, here are 7 things everyone with a Wandering Dude needs to know.
1. Light Requirements: Bright, Indirect Light is Key
Tradescantia plants are happiest in bright, indirect light. While they can tolerate lower light conditions, too little light will cause the vibrant colors of the leaves to fade and the plant to become leggy. If you notice your plant stretching out or the leaves losing their purple hue, it’s a sign that your Wandering Dude is craving more light.
Pro Tip: East or west-facing windows provide the perfect balance of sunlight for this plant. Avoid direct afternoon sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
2. Watering: Keep the Soil Slightly Moist
Tradescantia plants prefer their soil to stay slightly moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to dry out and become crispy. The general rule is to water the plant once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Pro Tip: During the growing season (spring and summer), increase watering frequency slightly. In the fall and winter, allow the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings since the plant’s growth slows down during these cooler months.
3. Pruning: Regular Pruning Encourages Fuller Growth
Tradescantia can become leggy if left unpruned. Regular trimming encourages the plant to grow bushier and fuller. When you notice stems becoming long and bare, simply pinch or cut off the top growth. The plant will then focus on developing new shoots from the base or along the stems.
Pro Tip: You can easily propagate the trimmed sections. Just place the cuttings in water or soil, and within a few weeks, you’ll have new Wandering Dude plants to share or keep!
4. Humidity: Loves a Little Extra Moisture in the Air
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