Anyone who finally decides to take home a Hoya plant would often choose the Hoya Compact. Known for its nickname Rope Hoya and Krinkle flower, this variety of Hoya is the most popular due to its easy maintenance, versatility, and attractive foliage.
Caring for Hoya Compacta is very easy — all it needs is enough light, water, and fertilizer. Of course, since you plan to care for and grow a Hoya Compacta, then it only makes sense that you’ll want to learn everything there is to know about this particular variety. Here’s how you can start caring for Hoya Compacta.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining soil is the best option for your Hoya Compacta. Remember that a Hoya Compacta is an epiphyte, which means it needs to have a lot of airflow around its roots. You can also use a potting mix that is specifically made for houseplants.
If you’re shopping for soil in Amazon, choose an airy soil that dries quickly and mixes in one part of pumice, orchid bark, or perlite. Of course, there is a need to consider your climate. A coarse potting mix is your best choice if you live somewhere that has a humid climate.
Container
Since this plant needs well-draining soil, you’ll need a container with a drainage hole at the bottom. When choosing a container, pick one at least double the size of the plant’s root system. Your plant will be most content when its roots are snug within a pot that is no more than two inches deeper and wider in size than the root ball itself.
Also, you would want to choose a pot with a saucer. This way, it can catch the excess water and keep the plant’s soil moist.
Lighting
Hoya Compacta is not particularly picky when it comes to light requirements. It can thrive in bright indirect sunlight or a partially shaded area. However, direct sun can burn its leaves, so avoid putting it in an area with too much direct sunlight.
For best results, place your plant in a south-, west-or east-facing window where the sunlight is not too direct sunlight. This will help keep your Hoya plant healthy and encourages it to bloom.
Water Requirements
Hoya Compacta must be watered deeply every 1-2 weeks and allowed to dry out completely between waterings. You won’t have difficulty doing this if your pot and soil drain well. With this plant, you’ll want to ensure the soil is not soggy, as it does not tolerate overwatering.
During the spring and summer, water your Hoya Compacta when the soil is dry. You can check by sticking your finger in the pot. If the soil feels completely dry, you’ll know it’s time to water your plant! You can also try a moisture meter, the easiest way to check for soil moisture.
During the winter, water your Hoya Compacta less often since it tends to go dormant during this time. Pay attention to its leaves — if they start wilting and looking dry, then it’s time to give it a drink.
Fertilizer
Although most plants need fertilizer to help them grow and thrive, Hoya Compacta doesn’t require much of it. It will still benefit from getting some fertilizer every month during the spring and summer. For optimal growth and health, fertilize your plant with a mild liquid fertilizer.
During fall and winter, avoid fertilizing. If you find dry or crinkly leaf edges, a white crust on the soil, or even a new growth dying off, you should hold back on the fertilizer. This allows your Hoya Compacta to rest.
Temperature Requirements
Hoya Compacta can survive in most average household temperatures. It prefers being kept at a temperature between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it an amazing houseplant to own since it’s so tolerant regarding temperature.
Humidity
When it comes to humidity, Hoya Compacta enjoys it. Aim to keep your home’s humidity between 40-60%, or risk the leaves from looking dried out and shriveled. If you’re living in an area with a dry climate, try misting your plant occasionally. You can also place it next to a humidifier or put it on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Repotting
You don’t need to repot your Hoya Compacta often. It grows slowly and is content as long as it stays snug in its pot. You’ll know it’s time to report your plant when the soil becomes compacted. You can also report if you have a case of overfertilization if you need to treat root rot.
When repotting, avoid untangling the roots if not needed. Trim rotting roots, but leave the root ball intact. You only need a pot one size bigger than its previous one. You can do this during summer or springtime.
Pruning
Occasional pruning is all you need to keep your Hoya Compacta healthy and neat. Pruning encourages new growth and removes dead or diseased stems. Use sterilized, sharp shears and prune any dead or diseased material to promote healthy growth.
Propagating Hoya Compacta
The best thing about this plant is you can propagate Hoya Compact in soil or water.
To propagate in soil:
- Take stem cuttings about 4-6 inches long and remove lower leaves.
- Place the cutting into a well-draining potting mix and water it lightly.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy. It is best to wait for roots to develop before watering more regularly.
To propagate in water:
- Start by taking stem cuttings about 4-6 inches long.
- Place the stem cuttings into a jar of water
- Wait for roots to develop before transplanting it into the soil.
Don’ts When Caring for Hoya Compacta
In addition to what you should do, there are some things you shouldn’t do when caring for Hoya Compacta. The following is a list of don’ts:
- Avoid abrupt temperature changes
- Don’t overfertilize your plant; too much fertilizer can lead to root burn and yellowing leaves.
- Don’t overwater your plant; too much water can cause root rot.
- Avoid drafts, and keep the plant away from cold windowsills or air conditioners.
- Keep it away from pets and children, as some parts are toxic if ingested.
- And most importantly, remember to give your Hoya Compacta plenty of love and care.
With the right conditions, it will reward you with gorgeous blooms!
Final Thoughts
The Hoya Compacta is a great houseplant to own. Not only does its waxy green foliage look beautiful, but it’s also easy to take care of. With proper care, your Hoya Compacta will thrive and bring you lots of joy over its lifetime.
