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Hoya houseplants, often called wax plants, are beloved for their thick, waxy leaves and fragrant, star-shaped flowers. These tropical beauties are easy to care for and can thrive for years, making them a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. With their climbing or trailing growth habit, Hoyas are perfect for hanging baskets or training on trellises. Here’s a guide to help you keep your Hoya healthy and happy.
Hoyas thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a window with filtered sunlight, such as an east- or west-facing window. While they can tolerate some direct morning or evening sun, avoid harsh midday rays, which can scorch their leaves. If your plant doesnt bloom, it may not be getting enough light. For lower-light spaces, varieties like Hoya carnosa can adapt, but growth and flowering may be slower.
Hoyas prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has proper drainage. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, but reduce watering in the fall and winter when growth slows. Use room-temperature water, as Hoyas dislike cold water.
Hoyas thrive in a well-draining potting mix. A combination of orchid bark, perlite, and standard potting soil works well, as it mimics their natural epiphytic environment. Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Hoyas prefer being slightly root-bound, so repot them only every 2-3 years or when the roots outgrow the pot.
Hoyas are tropical plants that enjoy warm, humid conditions. Keep them in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). They can tolerate average household humidity but will thrive in higher humidity levels. If your home is dry, especially in winter, increase humidity by misting the plant, using a humidifier, or placing a tray of water nearby.
Feed your plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Fertilizers high in phosphorus can encourage blooming. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the roots.
Pruning helps keep Hoyas tidy and encourages fuller growth. Trim leggy vines and remove any yellow or damaged leaves using sterilized pruning shears. Avoid cutting the long tendrils, as these will eventually produce new leaves and flowers. Leave the flower spurs (the small stems where flowers form) intact after blooming, as Hoyas will often rebloom from the same spot.
Hoyas are easy to propagate through stem cuttings. Select a healthy vine with at least two nodes (the points where leaves attach). Cut just below a node, remove its lower leaves, and place the cutting in water or moist soil. Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity until roots develop. Once rooted, transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil.
Most Hoyas are considered non-toxic to pets, making them a great choice for households with cats and dogs. However, it’s still best to keep the plant out of reach to prevent pets from chewing on the leaves, which could cause mild stomach upset.
Hoyas are known for their clusters of fragrant, waxy flowers, but they may take a few years to bloom. To encourage flowering, provide bright, indirect light, maintain consistent care, and avoid moving the plant too often. Stress from repotting or insufficient light can delay blooming. Be patient—once your Hoya starts flowering, it’s well worth the wait!