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Growing and Caring for Shamrock Plants

Oxalis deppei
April 25,1998

Melissa wrote:

I am writing concerning a shamrock plant I received as a gift recently. Every day it has leaves that have turned completly yellow. I've been removing these leaves, but it has continued to happen. The yellow leaves are usually the smaller, newer leaves. Is there anthing I can do to help this plant survive?

Shamrocks

Shamrock plants, Oxalis deppei are easy to grow bulbs, but they do have a few requirements. They like cool air, moist soil, and bright light but not direct sun.

Shamrocks need a dormant period

Shamrocks are bulbs, and like all bulbs they need a period of dormancy every once in a while. They will need a couple rest periods every year to continue growing their best. When your shamrock plant starts looking a little punky, stop watering and when the leaves all turn brown, pull them off. Set the pot somewhere that it will remain cool and dry for about two or three months, except the purple leaved varieties which only need about a month of rest.
After they have enjoyed their 'vacation' you can resume watering and give them a shot of all purpose house plant food (10-10-10), and in a very short time you will be rewarded with a happy new set of fresh growth.
At the end of the dormant cycle you might want to remove the Shamrock bulbs from the pot, separate them and replant just under the surface of the soil in good, slightly sandy houseplant soil.

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