Baby's tears care guide
Soleirolia soleirolii
Also known as: Soleirolia, Angel's tears, Helxine soleirolii
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Baby's tears
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 2 days
- Keep the soil from drying: water well as soon as the surface starts to dry, as a guide, and in midsummer water in the morning or evening so it does not stew.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 3 days
- As it cools the mix dries more slowly; generally water once the surface is dry.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 5 days
- Do not let it dry out in winter either: water a day or two after the surface dries, as a guide, sooner in a heated room.
Light and placement for Baby's tears
Bright shade out of direct sun is about right; it generally thrives in partial shade, strong sun browns the tiny leaves, and in summer it wants a cool, airy spot.
Overwintering Baby's tears
Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above
Fairly cold-tolerant, taking down to about 0°C, though frost damages the foliage; overwinter it at a bright window or under the eaves and keep the soil from drying.
Fertilizing and repotting Baby's tears
Fertilizer
It gets by on little: diluted liquid feed about once a month in spring and autumn, and none in midsummer or winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Baby's tears
- One drying out turns the mat brown and crisp.
- Hot, humid summer weather makes it stew and die back in patches.
- Direct sun scorches the leaves brown.
Tips for growing Baby's tears
- Bottom watering from a saucer keeps it from drying out.
- Trim it back with scissors when it sprawls to keep it dense.
- A small piece set on moist soil roots on its own.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
