Thickleaf Groundsel

What you'll need:

Thickleaf Groundsel plant (it's easier to start with a small plant or cutting rather than seeds)

A pot with drainage holes (about 6-8 inches wide is good for starters)

Well-draining soil (cactus or succulent mix works perfectly)

Gravel or small stones for the bottom of the pot

• A bright spot in your home or garden

Choosing the right spot:

Thickleaf Groundsel loves light but doesn’t like too much direct sun. Find a spot where it gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight—like an east-facing window or a shaded area outdoors.

When to start:

You can plant this anytime as long as the temperature stays above 50°F (10°C). Spring is ideal because it gives the plant time to settle in before winter, but indoor planting works year-round.

Quick tip: If you're unsure about soil, go for a pre-mixed cactus or succulent blend—it’s perfect for plants that don’t like soggy feet!

If you have a small plant:

1. Add a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom of your pot to help with drainage.
2. Fill the pot halfway with your well-draining soil.
3. Gently remove the plant from its nursery container and loosen the roots slightly if they’re packed together.
4. Place the plant in the center of the pot and fill around it with more soil until it’s secure.
5. Pat down lightly to make sure the plant stands upright.
6. Water sparingly just to moisten the soil, but don’t soak it.

If you have a cutting:

1. Let the cutting dry out for a day or two so the cut end forms a callus (this helps prevent rot).
2. Once callused, stick the cut end into a small pot filled with well-draining soil.
3. Lightly water the soil every few days, just enough to keep it slightly damp until roots form.
4. After 2-3 weeks, give it a gentle tug—if you feel resistance, roots have started forming!

Planting tips:

• Don’t bury the plant too deep; the base should be level with the soil surface.
• Leave some space between the top of the soil and the rim of the pot for easy watering.
• Keep the newly planted Thickleaf Groundsel in a bright spot but avoid harsh, direct sunlight for the first week.

Watering:

• This plant doesn’t like too much water. Wait until the top inch of soil feels completely dry before watering again.
• When you do water, give it a good drink until water runs out of the drainage holes, then let it dry out again.
• Overwatering is the biggest danger, so err on the side of caution!

Light needs:

• Give your Thickleaf Groundsel bright, indirect light. It can handle some morning sun, but avoid strong afternoon rays.
• If indoors, place it near a window where it gets filtered light throughout the day.

Feeding:

• During spring and summer (growing season), feed it once a month with a diluted liquid fertilizer made for succulents or cacti.
• In fall and winter, stop feeding altogether since the plant slows down its growth during these months.

Temperature:

• Keep it in a spot where temperatures stay between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.

Problem solving:

• Yellow leaves? You might be overwatering. Let the soil dry out more between waterings.
• Leggy growth? The plant may not be getting enough light. Move it closer to a brighter spot.
• Pests? Check for mealybugs or spider mites. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or spray with insecticidal soap if needed.

While Thickleaf Groundsel isn’t typically grown for harvesting (it’s more of an ornamental plant), you can propagate it easily by taking cuttings to grow new plants. Here’s how:

1. Cut off a healthy stem about 3-4 inches long using clean scissors.
2. Let the cutting sit out for a day or two until the cut end dries and forms a callus.
3. Plant the cutting in fresh soil, following the same steps as when you planted your original cutting.
4. Water lightly every few days until roots develop, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.

Tip: You can gift these new baby plants to friends or use them to expand your own collection!

No actual "harvesting" is required for this plant—just enjoy its lush, green foliage all year round!

Q: Can I grow Thickleaf Groundsel outdoors?

A: Yes! As long as you live in a warm climate (USDA zones 9-11) and provide partial shade, it can thrive outside. Just bring it indoors if frost threatens.

Q: Why are the leaves turning mushy?

A: This usually happens from overwatering. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again, and ensure your pot has proper drainage.

Q: How fast does Thickleaf Groundsel grow?

A: It grows fairly slowly, especially indoors. With the right care, it will steadily produce new leaves and spread out over time.

Q: Can I use regular potting soil?

A: Regular potting soil holds too much moisture, which can lead to root rot. Stick with a cactus or succulent mix, or add sand/perlite to regular soil for better drainage.

Q: Does Thickleaf Groundsel flower?

A: Yes! Under the right conditions, it produces small yellow flowers. However, flowering is rare indoors unless the plant gets ideal light and care.

Q: Is this plant safe around pets?

A: Unfortunately, no. Thickleaf Groundsel is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, so keep it out of their reach.