Why not decorate your home for St. Patrick’s Day with a potted shamrock or three-part of the tradition of the “wearin’ o’ the green?” In preparation for the holiday, you can grow the American version of the lucky clover, the Oxalis.
The Oxalis actually makes a wonderful houseplant year-round. It’s generally problem-free and not bothered by pests. It likes bright light and moist, well-drained soil but will put up with some neglect.
The rare four-leaf clover was believed by the Druids to hold power. They used clovers in spells; for them the leaves represented the four elements of alchemy: water, earth, air and fire. Even in more modern times, it is thought that the four-leaf clover is a lucky charm, so if you are lucky enough to find a four leaf clover, carry it with you!
Oxalis likes cool air and moist soil. Bright indirect light is best, but they will grow in lower light levels. Fertilize weekly while they are growing with a balanced fertilizer. From time to time, the foliage will begin to fade. Shamrocks are bulbs, and the plant is asking for a dormant period. During that time, restrict all watering. As with any bulb, let the leaves die back naturally. Do not remove any leaves until they are brown. Let the bulbs stay dormant for 3 to 4 weeks, then water and fertilize. In most indoor-grown shamrocks, this dormant period occurs 2 to 3 times a year.
Drop by and pick up your shamrock today!