Screw Pines Care

Water the plant moderately. Let the top layer of the soil dry out before the next watering, but never let it dry out completely. Water less in autumn and winter. The plant likes high humidity, so mist it regularly, especially if you live in a dry and hot climate.

The plant generally does not need pruning. Remove dead and dying leaves when necessary.

Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every second week in spring, summer, and autumn. Do not fertilize in winter.

The plant needs a lot of bright but indirect sunlight. If you wish, put the plant outside in summer, but ensure it's in a shady area during midday.

Regular potting soil will work well. Add horticultural sand to the mix to improve drainage.

You can propagate the Screw Pine plant by offshoots. Cut the pups during the spring and replant them in a new pot. Place the offshoots in a warm and humid place. Covering the pot with a plastic bag is a good idea. Place the pot under indirect (but not direct!!) sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and your pups will root soon!

Room temperatures are perfect for the plant. 65-80°F (18-27°C) year-round is ideal. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.

There are no specific container requirements. Ensure proper drainage, and repot the plant every spring. The new pot should be about 2 inches (5 cm) larger than the previous one.

Although it's called a Screw Pine plant, it's not a pine. Its leaves look a bit like pineapple – that's where the origins of the name lie.