Bloodleaf Plant Care

Location

• Some colorful plants require shade to hold their color. Bloodleaf, on the other hand, exhibits its most brilliant shades when grown in full sun. Plant the outdoor-grown bloodleaf in an area where it receives at least six hours of sun -- preferably in the morning. Indoors, place the bloodleaf's pot next to a window with a southern exposure. In winter you may need to move the plant around to provide it with enough sun, or place it under lights for several hours a day.

Moisture

• The bloodleaf, like most tropical plants, loves moisture. Misting the leaves provides required humidity or place a humidifier in the room where the plant grows. Water the plant to keep the soil barely moist. Be careful not to overwater it, and empty the tray beneath the pot 15 minutes after watering. Outdoor-grown bloodleaf plants require barely moist soil as well. Give it 1 inch of water a week during the growing season, and check the soil periodically during hot weather.

Fertilizer

• Fertilizer helps the bloodleaf produce strong stems and leaves. Apply a water-soluble, all-purpose houseplant food once a month during the plant's active growth period. Use the rate suggested by the fertilizer manufacturer, diluted to half strength. Use a slow-release fertilizer on the outdoor bloodleaf. Scatter the granules beneath the plant and water it in to the top 4 inches of soil. Use the hose to wash any granules off of the plant's foliage.

Additional Care Considerations

• Several pests are fond of the bloodleaf plant: spider mites and aphids, in particular. The safest way to manage a pest infestation is with insecticidal soap sprays. Test the spray on an inconspicuous area of the plant to make sure it doesn't burn or otherwise discolor it. Powdery mildew is the most common disease you may deal with and is evidenced by white flecks and a white or grey powdery substance on the leaves and in the crotch where they join the stem. Remove infected leaves and stems and move the bloodleaf into an area with less humidity. Fungicide sprays work well to manage the disease, but test the spray on an inconspicuous part of the plant to make sure it won't mar the foliage.