Autograph tree care guide

Pets and children

How often to water Autograph tree

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 7 days

Its thick leaves hold water, so as a guide water thoroughly only after the soil has dried out.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 10 days

Water about two to three days after the soil dries.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 14 days

Water sparingly about a week after the soil dries.

Light and placement for Autograph tree

A bright window is about right, and once acclimated it generally takes full sun outdoors; it tolerates shade, though in dim light the leaves shrink and the branches stretch, and a plant grown indoors scorches if suddenly put in midsummer sun.

Overwintering Autograph tree

Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above

Move it to a bright spot indoors when nights fall below about 10°C; it tolerates roughly 5°C, kept on the dry side and away from cold windows and heater draft.

Fertilizing and repotting Autograph tree

Fertilizer

Slow-release fertilizer about every two months from May to September; it grows slowly, so keep doses modest, and give none in winter.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with Autograph tree

• Overwatering rots the roots and the leaves yellow and drop.
• In a dark spot the new leaves come out small and the branches stretch.
• Scale insects on the leaf undersides and stems leave a sticky residue.

Tips for growing Autograph tree

• The name comes from being able to scratch writing into the leaves, but the marks stay, so avoid it on a display plant.
• Dust settles on the broad leaves, so wipe them with a damp cloth now and then.
• Pruning the shoot tips in spring makes side shoots and a fuller shape.

More foliage plant care guides

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• Bengal figFicus benghalensis
• Bird of paradiseStrelitzia reginae
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• Blue star fernPhlebodium aureum