How to Care for a Red Nerve Plant

Potting

• 1

  Create a rich potting soil for the red nerve plant by mixing one part peat, one part perlite and two parts leaf mold.

• 2

  Fill a clean, small pot that has a hole on the bottom one-third full with the soil mixture.

• 3

  Place the plant in the center of the pot.

• 4

  Fill in the rest of the empty space in the pot with the soil mixture. Water the plant immediately so that the soil is moist.

• 5

  Repot the red nerve plant every two years during the spring.

General Care

• 6

  Place the potted plant under fluorescent light in an environment that has an even temperature between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This area should be away from direct sunlight, cold air and dry air.

• 7

  Mist the plant with a light spray of lukewarm water every morning to create a moist environment for the nerve plant.

• 8

  Water the plant with warm water regularly. The soil should always be evenly moist, but not waterlogged.

• 9

  Fertilize the soil every two weeks by adding a liquid, lime-free fertilizer to the watering can. Follow fertilizer directions for specific instructions.

• 10

  Prune away dead leafs or stems when necessary.

• 11

  Check regularly for pests such as mealy bugs and spider mites. Treat infestations with appropriate pesticides or insecticides, following all instructions on packaging.