china doll plant care

China Doll Plant Care Tips for Healthy Growth

Written by: Fatima Razzaq

The China doll is used as a plant for the home because of its numerous glossy green, fern-like leaves. The plant was originally enormous; the fast-growing species can now thrive indoors in a variety of conditions. The China doll plant seldom blooms in the indoors.

The native of Southeast Asia was introduced as an indoor plant around the mid-80s. It can reach a height of 4 feet and was prized for its ability to bring fresh greenery into houses.

China Doll Overview

  1. Genus Name

Radermachera sinica

  1. Common Name

China Doll

  1. Plant Type

Houseplant

  1. Light

Part Sun, 

  1. Height From 

1 to 4 feet

  1. Width

1 – 3′

  1. Foliage Color

Blue/Green

  1. Special Features

Good for Containers, Low Maintenance

  1. Propagation

Stem Cuttings

Benefits of the China Doll Plant

1. Air Purification

Like many indoor plants, the China Doll actively purifies the air by absorbing harmful pollutants, such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide. The plant’s presence improves the quality of indoor air, creating a healthier environment for the occupants.

2. Stress Reduction

Research has shown that having a space filled with indoor plants, such as those of the China Doll, can significantly lower stress levels and encourage feelings of relaxation and peace. Caring for plants has also been associated with reduced cortisol levels and better moods.

3. Enhanced Decor

With its elegant leaves and compact growth habits, graceful foliage, and compact growth habit, the China Doll adds a touch of natural beauty to any space. When placed on a table or shelf or as a floor decoration, its bright green leaves bring energy and freshness to your interior, providing a tranquil atmosphere.

4. Humidity Regulation

House plants release water through transpiration, which helps to regulate the humidity of your indoor space. Bringing plants such as China Doll into your home creates a more comfortable and balanced indoor atmosphere, especially beneficial during the dry winter months or in rooms that are air-conditioned.

How to Grow China Doll Plant Indoors

Sunlight

China doll plants need moderate to bright indirect lighting to flourish indoors. Find a place close to an east or west-facing window that has at least four or five hours of exposure to the sun. However, be sure to guard your plants from harmful rays. 

They can burn the plants’ delicate leaves, causing leaf loss. Rotate the plant once every few weeks to ensure an even growth of the leaves on each side and avoid burning leaves.

Artificial Light

China doll plants require consistent lighting when growing in indoor spaces. If your home doesn’t provide enough light to sustain your plant’s growth, it is possible to add artificial growth lights to encourage it to flourish. 

Choose an LED to grow light that combines blue and red light to encourage the growth of foliage and flowers. A period of about 12 hours under the grow light is the equivalent of six hours of sunlight, so supplement your plants near low-light windows by providing at least an eight-hour supply of lighting. 

Plants without natural light will require twelve to more than 12 hours of artificial lighting every day.

Temperature and Humidity

Due to their subtropical roots, Chinese doll plants appreciate warmer, humid climates within your home. They must be kept at temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though they are able to thrive in typical dry home conditions, they thrive when they are surrounded by more humidity. 

To increase the amount of humidity around the China doll plants, place them in an area of your home that usually has greater humidity, such as the bathroom. It is also possible to mist your plant regularly or put the plant in proximity to the humidifier.

When you’re China doll, is located close to a cold window or a cooling and heating vent the plant should be relocated to a different location.

Watering

Regular watering is crucial for a happy, well-nourished Chinese doll. It is essential to water after the soil’s top inch is dry, however the best frequency may differ according to the time of year and the environment of your home. 

It is recommended to water at the soil line is the best way to allow the roots to take in more moisture, however the plants that love humidity can manage water that falls on their leaves.

It is important to not overwater China doll plants as they are not able to take on “wet feet” and will quickly grow roots rot if they are left sitting in water. To prevent this from happening make sure you choose a pot that has plenty of drainage holes near the bottom. 

In the event that you observe leaves becoming hard or yellow this is a clear indication that the plant isn’t receiving enough water. Additionally, black tips on the leaves of the plant could indicate that it’s been overwatered.

Fertilizer

In the time of its growth (spring through summer), the growing season (spring and summer) China doll plant needs to be fed on a regular basis with an appropriate fertilizer liquid that has been diluted by half. Follow the directions for the fertilizer you are using to determine the right amount for your plant based on its size. 

When the growth of your plant has slowed down for the entire year, you can reduce your feeding frequency to every other month.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular pruning is the most important form of maintenance for this China doll plant. It should be carried out regularly to maintain a pleasing and productive plant. 

It’s not a matter of the period of the year pruning is done, so it’s a good idea to do it whenever you observe your China doll growing chaotic. Every couple of months, trim any stems that appear slightly sloppy, distorted, or have fallen off.

How to Care for a China Doll Plant

Consider Your Light Sources

China doll plants require plenty of bright yet indirect light. They require at least 4 to 5 hours of light per day. If the windows of your home aren’t able to offer adequate light, then you might want to consider using artificial plants to provide an additional source of illumination.

Select The Right Room Temperature

They also are apprehensive about the temperature they flourish in. They prefer living in temperatures between 65 and 75 ° F. (18-24 C.). They do not like drafts, therefore make sure that wherever you place the China doll, it is free of drafts and winds.

Just The Right Amount Of Water

China doll plants require humid, but well-drained soil. The soil on surface of the pot is dry to the surface. Be cautious that you do not overload the plant, since it is not a fan of this and could get the root disease when it is left in water because of inadequate drainage. 

The plant shouldn’t be repotted, since it is most productive with its roots connected to the roots.

Be Aware of Any Changes

The foremost thing to keep in mind is that Chinese doll plants don’t like changes. Any change in water, light temperatures, or light repotting the plant can cause a huge leaf fall. If your China doll plant does drop its leaves, don’t panic. They will reseed in the right way if you take the appropriate steps. 

The first thing to do is cut the remaining stems by two-thirds or one-half. Cut back on watering to stop root rot. This is an issue that this plant is especially vulnerable to in this situation. Regular pruning is an essential aspect of caring for the China dolly plant.

China Doll Plant FAQs

How Much Light Do China Doll Plants Need?

China doll plants enjoy the bright indirect light and need the least of 4 hours per day. Make sure you keep your plants away from direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.

Are China Doll Plants Toxic?

It’s not true, China doll plants are safe for humans as well as animals, which makes it a wonderful home plant for pets to keep in your collection.

What pests are common in Chinese doll plants?

China doll plants can be prone to pests such as scale, mealybugs and spider mites which is why it’s essential to treat your plant using the oil of neem particularly prior to returning it to inside.

Can it be propagated easily? 

The propagation of China dolls isn’t a problem however, it takes more effort and time than other varieties. Use the green branch cuttings that aren’t yet matured into woody growth. Place them in a moist, well-drained soil and cover with the cover of plastic to hold in the humidity. Make sure the soil is constantly moist and watch for new roots in three to four weeks.

What pests of plants are common to China doll plants?

China doll plants are vulnerable to plants such as mealybugs and scales as well as spider mites (especially when they are in close proximity to different plants). They can be sprayed using natural insecticides, such as the oil of neem.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *