How to Care for Mimosa Pudica Indoors

Plant the m. pudica in an 8-inch pot filled with commercial potting soil enriched with peat moss. Alternatively, prepare a growing medium comprised of 2 parts moss, 2 parts loam and 1 part perlite and pour it into the pot. Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot, such as a bright windowsill with a southern exposure or an indoor spot where the temperature remains consistent between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Irrigate the M. pudica regularly during the growing season, providing a steady stream of water when the top 1 inch of soil becomes dry. Although tolerant of dry soils and moderate drought, the tropical plant thrives in soils that remain evenly moist most of the time. Reduce watering to only when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feels dry during the winter.

Fertilize M. pudica an all-purpose fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength every week to 10 days during the growing season. Reduce the frequency to once every four to five weeks during the winter.

Mist the M. pudica every other day to provide it 50 percent humidity, especially during the winter. Alternatively, add water to a tray filled with pebbles and position the potted plant over it, ensuring its drainage holes rest higher than the level of water.

Pruning the M. pudica every spring controls its size, invigorates growth and enhances appearance. Clip dead, diseased and wayward branches using sharp, sterilized pruning scissors or clippers. Sniping off runners keeps the tropical plant healthy. Discard the clippings in a bag or add them to your compost bin.