How to Grow & Care for Oxalis Plants (Shamrock)

Light

Your best option is to plant in the fall, whether you're growing softneck or hardneck garlic. The entire winter, the next spring, and the majority of the summer are required for hardneck bulbs to develop. Softnecks can frequently be picked into the next fall and will be ready early in the spring.

Soil

As long as the soil has sufficient drainage, the purple shamrock can grow in a range of soil types. If the soil absorbs too much moisture, its roots are vulnerable to rotting. The ideal soil is sandy or loamy. Also, a generic, well-draining potting mix should work well for container growing.

Water

Water the young purple shamrock plants to keep the soil evenly moist. Established plants can withstand some drought and are understanding if you neglect to water them. Water purple shamrock plants whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry during the growth season.

Temperature and Humidity

These plants like a range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes them particularly well-suited for growing inside at typical room temperatures. They can withstand lows of 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

Fertilizer

During the plant's growing season, fertilise the purple shamrock according to the label's instructions, using either a slow-release or liquid fertiliser. For indoor plants, a liquid fertiliser is best. Healthy development can also be aided by adding compost to the soil.

Propagating

During their growing season, mature purple shamrocks can be propagated via division. Division keeps the mature plant from being too crowded and is an economical approach to get new plants. Remove the plant with care, preserving the roots as much as you can.

How to Grow Seed

Instead of seeds, purple shamrocks are produced from bulbs. The spring is the ideal season for planting. The bulbs should be buried 1 to 2 inches deep with the narrower end facing up. Several bulbs should be placed between three and four inches apart.

Potting and Repotting

Use a pot that is only slightly bigger than the root ball of your purple shamrock. Ensure there are plenty of drainage holes. The best container is one made of unglazed clay since it will let excess soil moisture evaporate through its walls.

Overwintering

Purple shamrocks that are grown outside of their hardiness zones need to be brought indoors for the winter. Bring them inside as soon as it's not expected to get frosty and while the night are still above 50 degrees. Your brightest window should face south, so place the plant there.

Pests & Plant Diseases

A few common pests and diseases are susceptible to purple shamrocks. Mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites are a few pests. Because the wind and rain outside frequently wash pests off plants, indoor plants are more vulnerable to pest problems. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of infestations.