Tree spinach (Chenopodium giganteum) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

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Plant Encyclopedia > Tree spinach

Care Guide for Tree spinach

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Soil Care

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalky, Acidic, Neutral

Details on Soil Care

Ideal Lighting

Full sun, Partial sun

Details on Sunlight Requirements

Ideal Temperature

4 to 8

Details on Temperature

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Details on Planting Time

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Tree spinach

Water

Twice per week

Sunlight

Full sun

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Questions About Tree spinach

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Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Tree spinach?

Not only does the Tree spinach have certain preferences regarding how much water it receives, but it also cares deeply about how you provide that water. In fact, if you don't use the proper watering technique, you risk harming your tomatoes. The best way to water Tree spinach is to apply the water directly to the soil in a slow and gentle manner. You should not pour all of the water into the soil at once, and you should not do overhead watering for your Tree spinach. Although you should water slowly, you should also water deeply to ensure that all of the soil in which your Tree spinach grows is sufficiently moist.

What should I do if I water my Tree spinach too much or too little?

If you find that you have overwatered your Tree spinach and you are concerned about the associated risk of disease, you should intervene immediately. Often the best approach for an overwatered Tree spinach is to uproot it from its current growing location. Once the plant is out of the ground, you can allow its roots to dry a bit before planting it in a new growing location. Ensure that the new growing location has soil with good drainage. If you grow in pots, you may also want to move your plant to a pot with more or larger drainage holes. In the case of underwatering, all you will need to do is increase the frequency with which you supply water to your plant.

How often should I water my Tree spinach?

Overall, Tree spinach requires a significant amount of water throughout the growing season. To meet that high water need, you'll need to water early and often throughout the spring and summer. During the earlier parts of the growing season, you should water your Tree spinach about once or twice per week. As the season progresses, you should increase your watering frequency. You may need to water it twice per day or more during summer, depending on the weather. After your Tree spinach have gone through their major seasonal growth phases, you can reduce the frequency of your watering to about once per week until the end of the growing season.

How much water does my Tree spinach need?

Since Tree spinach are incredibly popular, with many professional and amateur gardeners growing them successfully, we have a pretty clear idea of how to care for these plants. That understanding includes specific knowledge about the precise volume of water an average Tree spinach should receive. Generally, Tree spinach will require about 1 - 1.5 inches of water per week. That volume should be dispersed evenly through your weekly watering. As the weather gets warmer, you may need to supply more water, but in most cases, two inches per week is a good baseline amount.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Tree spinach enough?

Underwatering and overwatering can both occur as problems for your Tree spinach, and both these problems can manifest with similar symptoms. For example, foliage discoloration and wilting can both result from either overwatering or underwatering. When your Tree spinach is underwatered, its leaves will be curling and drooping at the beginning. You will see a bunch of leaves turn less vigorous. Underwatering is also likely to cause stunted growth and poor overall development as both the flowers and this plant require a high amount of water. Overwatering is more likely to lead to disease, including rot. Overwatering may also lead to unpleasant smells rising from your plant's soil. The symptoms of underwatering will show up quicker than overwatering. Overwatering can also be evident in soil conditions. Mainly, if you notice a lot of standing water or waterlogged soils, overwatering is likely to occur.

How should I water my Tree spinach through the seasons?

As alluded to above, your Tree spinach's water needs will repeatedly change throughout the seasons. During most of spring and summer, you should water your Tree spinach about once every week. As the heat of summer arrives, you should plan to increase your watering frequency to once or twice per day. In the late summer and fall, towards the end of the harvest period, you can reduce your watering frequency to about once per week. After harvest has ended, you can cease watering as your Tree spinach has reached the end of its life cycle and will require no further soil moisture.

The maintenance schedule of Tree spinach will require you to alter the amount of water you provide depending on the plant's current growth stage. Early on, especially if you grow your Tree spinach from seeds, you'll need to provide water often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture, which encourages root development. When the plant becomes old enough to produce flowers, it will likely need even more water. During the fruit development growth stage, your Tree spinach will likely need the most water out of any growth period, at times requiring water more than twice per day. Following that phase, the water needs of Tree spinach will decline significantly.

What's the difference between watering Tree spinach indoors and outdoors?

Whether you grow Tree spinach indoors or outdoors can also play a role in how you water them. Tree spinach that grows outdoors may receive water from natural rainfall, which will reduce the amount of supplemental water you should supply. However, it is incredibly rare for rainfall to adequately replace your watering entirely. Plants that grow indoors, along with any Tree spinach that grows in a container, will need to be watered more frequently than those that grow in the ground outdoors. If you choose this route, please make sure that the plant gets enough water by checking the soil moisture within your pot often to keep your Tree spinach healthy.

Is pruning necessary for my Tree spinach?

Tree spinach is a kind of annual plant so it doesn't need much pruning. You only need to cut off and clean the diseased, yellow or dropped leaves and stems during its growing period. This will help your Tree spinach to stay away from pathogens infection.

How do I prune my Tree spinach?

During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off. If the whole piece of leave is discolored or infected, you will need to cut it off completely. In other situations, you will only need to cut off the discolored or infected part on certain leaves. Tree spinach above the ground will die and dry up in the winter, and the dead plants need to be cleaned up.

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Tree spinach?

Tree spinach leaves are delicate, so take care not to score or bruise them. Unless the leaves are withered or heavily discolored, do not prune the leaves from the lowermost branches unless they’re damaged. They typically grow the largest, so they supply the plant with critical energy to keep it growing right. Please prevent the wounds from water after pruning until they are fully recovered. Remember always sterilize the tools before pruning. When the pruning is finished, please throw all the waste leaves and stems into the trashbins to avoid diseases and bugs.

Are there any tips for pruning my Tree spinach?

Sterilize all the tools before pruning; unclean tools will pass pathogens to the plant through wounds;
Prune on sunny days because the new cuts will be infected by pathogens if they're distained by rain or water.
Throw all the waste leaves and stems into trashbins, they will easily rot and attract diseases and bugs

When should/shouldn't I prune my Tree spinach?

Expect to prune your Tree spinach every week if it’s growing well or every two weeks if it grows slowly. It is always good to prune it on sunny days because if you prune it on rainy days, the rainwater will distain the cuts and cause the whole plant to be infected.

What should I look for when pruning my Tree spinach in different seasons?

Because Tree spinach is an annual plant, the pruning should take place basically during the seasons that the plant grows rapidly. During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off.

How much sunlight does Tree spinach need to grow?

Exact needs vary, but a minimum of 6 to 8 hours per day is a good rule of thumb for Tree spinach to grow and produce fruit.

What type of sunlight does Tree spinach need?

Tree spinach requires full sun, meaning that it should be grown in a location that gets direct sunlight that isn’t blocked by obstacles such as trees, fences, or buildings. In general, the faster the plant grows, the more hours of sunlight it will need. Morning sun is best for photosynthesis.

Should I protect Tree spinach from sun exposure?

Tree spinach should not need to be protected from the sun in most climates. Those who live in a desert or near the equator may find that the sun is too harsh for the types of plants they want to grow, but this is the exception.

What will happen if Tree spinach doesn't get enough sunlight?

All plants need sunlight to convert into energy. Plants that have a short growing season need even more light and energy than those that grow slowly, as they need to complete all their processes to grow and produce fruit within just a few months.

The first symptoms of insufficient sunlight in Tree spinach are pale and yellow leaves that are not able to generate enough chlorophyll to keep their healthy green color. The leaves may eventually fall off, and new growth is small and weak. The plant may become leggy and sparse as it stretches toward the available light.

Finally, without enough light the plant will not be able to produce large, high-quality edible leaves or fruit. Tree spinach needs to devote a lot of energy into growing leaves and fruits, so if there isn’t enough light available for it to convert, the harvest will suffer.

What will happen if Tree spinach gets too much sunlight?

Tree spinach can get sunburned from intense sunlight, especially when coupled with high temperatures and not having enough water. Afternoon sun tends to be most likely to burn plants. Scalded leaves develop faded patches of light brown to white on the areas at the top of the plant that are exposed to the most sun. They are especially vulnerable to this right after being transplanted from a shadier location to being in full sun. Transitioning plants gradually or providing them with a barrier while they are adjusting can help prevent sunscald in young plants.

In many cases, Tree spinach develops leaves that are large enough to protect fruits from the strongest rays of the sun. However, if intense sunlight is in contact with fruits, they can also be damaged. Avoid over-pruning those protective leaves so that the fruits don’t get burned.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Tree spinach?

Tree spinach may become unbalanced if it gets significantly more light on one side than the other. Ideally, you can plant your Tree spinach in a location away from obstacles that might block light, and where the distribution of sunlight is even on all sides.

Be careful about planting tall species next to those that grow closer to the ground. It may not be obvious when the crops are first planted, but over time the taller plants may begin to block the amount of sunlight that can reach the shorter plants.

Morning sun helps to dry dew and precipitation, which helps prevent infection from diseases that can develop when water sits on the plant. If you are watering or irrigating your Tree spinach, this should be done in the morning.

What is the optimal temperature for Tree spinach?

There is an ideal temperature range that makes Tree spinach feel at home. Under these temperature conditions, it's unlikely that you’ll have any issues with cold or hot damage to the foliage, but changing leaf colors can absolutely be a sign that Tree spinach isn’t happy. Try to keep your Tree spinach well within its preferred range of 70-85℉(21-30℃), but don’t panic if the temperature creeps up past 85℉(30℃) during the day or down to 70℉(21℃) at night.

How can I protect Tree spinach from extreme temperatures outdoors?

If your Tree spinach happens to be planted outside, then there’s not much you can do to try to move it indoors. However, you can certainly provide cover in ways that will help it survive any extreme temperatures that may arise unexpectedly. For instance, you can always use a few stakes and some cloth to put together a shade tent that will block out much of the sun’s intense heat from direct sunlight exposure.

Similarly, Tree spinach can be protected from the extreme cold and especially chilly winds by building a small greenhouse around the plant, which will create a greenhouse effect and warm the plant up. This can be done using garden stakes and any sort of clear or translucent plastic you may have around; if you have greenhouse plastic such as polycarbonate laying around, this works perfectly. Remove the greenhouse once temperatures warm up to 40℉(10℃) at night.

Does Tree spinach need different temperatures in different seasons?

Generally speaking, Tree spinach needs to stay within its preferred temperature range all year long. However, that doesn’t mean that care should stay the same all year long. During the warmest months of the year, Tree spinach will need a little extra shade and a bit more of a breeze to help it cope with the hottest days. On the other hand, it may need to be moved away from chilly windows and doors during the cooler months in climates where temperatures drop below 40℉(10℃) at any point in the year.

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Tree spinach?

Keeping your Tree spinach at the right temperature can be fairly simple. Depending on where you grow it, Tree spinach can be fairly easy to accommodate. For indoor growing, you can easily move the plant to different locations within your indoor space that best meet its temperature requirements. Avoid placing it near air conditioning vents, heaters, doors that open frequently, or drafty windows.

It is a little more difficult to control the temperature around your Tree spinach if it’s grown outside. Of course, if it’s planted in a pot, you can simply bring it indoors when the temperatures outside get too hot or too cold for Tree spinach, but otherwise, you may need to take different measures to protect it from extreme heat or cold that may damage it irreversibly. Try placing Tree spinach under cover to protect from both the harsh sun that can overheat it and any cold wind that could be potentially deadly for your plant.

Why do I need to fertilize my Tree spinach?

Tree spinach is grown for its edible leaves and shoots, so it needs sufficient nutrients to provide great flavor and a large harvest. If this plant is grown in soil that does not have enough nutrients, its leaves and stems will be underdeveloped, and flavors are likely to be inferior to a plant that is grown in more favorable conditions. Stems are likely to be thin and the taste may be bitter.

Fertilization is especially important if this plant is grown in a container, since container plants don't have as much access to organic matter as those grown in the ground. Supplement your Tree spinach with a balanced liquid fertilizer if it is grown in a pot.

When is the best time to fertilize my Tree spinach?

There are several points during the growing season that you should apply fertilizer to benefit your Tree spinach. The initial application occurs when you prepare the ground to be planted, at least 2 to 8 weeks before planting, amend the soil thoroughly with nutrient-rich organic material such as compost or manure.

Amend the soil again at planting time, using the same method. After your seedlings emerge, wait until they reach around 2 inches tall before applying the next dose of fertilizer. After that, you can continue to regularly feed your Tree spinach with rich organic matter or a commercial fertilizer until you harvest. A typical schedule would be to fertilize every two to three weeks. It is also a good idea to add a layer of compost or manure around the plant to provide a continuous supply of nutrients.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Tree spinach?

Avoid Fertilizing Tree spinach when soil conditions are dry. This plant requires plenty of water, and will not be able to properly absorb nutrients if there isn't enough moisture in the soil. Also avoid using chemical fertilizers on this plant outside of the growing season, since that risks introducing more fertilizer than the plant can use. Excess chemical fertilizer ends up in groundwater and can contaminate soil, so be sure to fertilize only during the active growing periods.

What type of fertilizer does my Tree spinach need?

Tree spinach should be provided with a balanced fertilizer, although it may not need much fertilization if the soil is rich enough. Organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, well-rotted manure, and compost or compost tea work very well for growing Tree spinach.

You may prefer to use a fertilizer with a slightly higher nitrogen ratio compared to other macronutrients, as nitrogen supports strong foliage development. The NPK number on the fertilizer label will be the best way to understand the ratio of the three macronutrients nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the mixture. The best way to determine what kind of fertilizer works best for Tree spinach in your garden is to perform a soil test and then compare the results against the requirements for successfully growing the plant.

How do I fertilize my Tree spinach?

Mix compost or other organic fertilizers into the soil prior to planting. This provides seedlings a great start so they can develop a healthy root system.

At the beginning of the growing season, layer compost or other organic fertilizers and soil amendments around the bed so they can release nutrients into the soil over time. A slow-release granular fertilizer can also be sprinkled onto the soil if needed to supplement nutrients and support leaf development. Liquid fertilizers could be used during the regular watering cycle, but be careful when using chemical fertilizer products that you do not use too much and burn your Tree spinach.

What happens if I fertilize my Tree spinach too much?

Overfertilization of Tree spinach can cause the plant to become stressed and burned. Tree spinach may die altogether, especially if excess fertilizer is combined with dry and/or hot conditions, so always remember to water thoroughly when fertilizing this plant.

Excess fertilizers cause a condition called fertilizer burn, which happens when too many salts build up in the roots or other parts of the plant. This is less common when using organic fertilizers compared to chemical fertilizers, so it is always recommended to use natural materials if possible.

Too much fertilizer causes the plant to become stressed, resulting in yellowing and wilting foliage. It is easier to avoid this condition than to treat it after it has already happened, but you can flush the soil with a lot of water if you have accidentally overfertilized. Tree spinach is resilient and can come back from unhealthy conditions once the problem is rectified.

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Key Facts About Tree spinach

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Attributes of Tree spinach

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Plant Height

2.5 m

Spread

1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Red

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Red

Green

Stem Color

Green

Pink

Yellow

Leaf type

Semi-evergreen

Ideal Temperature

20 - 35 ℃

Scientific Classification of Tree spinach

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Family

Amaranth

Genus

Goosefoots

Species

Tree spinach

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Common Pests & Diseases About Tree spinach

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Common issues for Tree spinach based on 10 million real cases

Thrips

Thrips are 1 to 2 mm bugs with slender black or translucent-yellow bodies. They move quickly and feed on the plant's sap.

Solutions: Thrips can be controlled in several ways. Spray plants with Pyrethrin, which is an organic pesticide derived from marigolds (follow label instructions) or Permethrin, the synthetic version of Pyrethrin. Introduce beneficial insects to the garden that eat thrips, such as minute pirate bugs and green lacewings. Remove heavily infested plants from the area and discard. Address viral diseases that may have been transmitted by the pests. For less serious cases -use a hose to spray the thrips off of the plants.

Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

Solutions: Even though caterpillars are diverse, they all chew on plant parts and can cause significant damage if present in large numbers. For severe cases: Apply insecticide. For an organic solution, spray plants with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which specifically affects the larval stage of moths and butterflies. Be sure to coat plants, since caterpillars need to ingest Bt for it to be effective. This will not harm other insects. Spray a chili extract. Chili seeds can be cooked in water to make a spicy spray that caterpillars don't like. Spray this mixture on the plants, but be aware it will also be spicy to humans. Introduce beneficial insects. Release beneficial insects to the garden that eat caterpillars, such as parasitic wasps. For less severe cases: Hand pick. Using gloves, pick off caterpillars on plants and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. Dust plants with diatomaceous earth. This powder is harmless to humans but irritates caterpillars. Therefore, it will make it difficult for caterpillars to move and eat.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a white mold that appears on leaves. It can be wiped away.

Solutions: As powdery Mildew spores are transported by the wind, it can be tricky to put a complete stop to the spread of the fungus. Luckily, there are several easy treatments for plants that are exhibiting symptoms: If powdery Mildew seems to be impacting isolated leaves or stems, they can simply be trimmed away and disposed of. Disinfect pruning tools after doing this. Remove any plant debris from the ground around the infected plants and dispose of it in the garbage. Then, cover the soil with a thick layer of mulch to limit reinfection. Milk sprays have been found to be useful in controlling powdery Mildew. Make up a spray consisting of 60% water and 40% milk and spray on the affected plants. This can also be used as a preventative measure. In cases where powdery Mildew is more widespread, plants can be sprayed with a mild sulfur- or copper-based fungicide or a non-toxic solution made from baking soda and soap. Sprays can help areas that have been recently infected, though they are less effective against well-established infections. If possible, try transplanting the plants to a sunnier location. Though powdery Mildew does fine in hot, dry conditions, it is unable to reproduce without some humidity. Putting plants in more direct sunlight can help stop the spread of the fungus. Trimming around closely-packed plants can help improve airflow, which also prevents the reproduction of the fungus.

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

Solutions: There are several easy ways to remedy the nutrient deficiencies in soils. Use a water-soluble fertilizer. Fertilizers will include most or all of the macro and micro-nutrients the plants need to thrive. Adding some fertilizer to the soil will make those nutrients available and can combat deficiencies. Regularly apply organic fertilizer pellets. Organic fertilizers such as animal manures and bonemeal can supply plants with all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Apply compost. Though not as finely tuned as artificial fertilizer, compost can nevertheless be rich in important nutrients and should be applied to the soil regularly. Apply nutrients via foliar application. In addition to supplementing the soil with nutrients, foliar fertilizer can be applied directly to the plant's leaves. Nutrients offered via foliar application are often taken up even quicker than those put in the soil, so the foliar application can be great for swiftly addressing specific deficiencies.

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Distribution of Tree spinach

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Habitat of Tree spinach

Weed infested places

Northern Hemisphere

South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Tree spinach

Tree spinach is native to Eastern Asia, with its roots spreading naturally across multiple territories including the Indian subcontinent, East Asia, and parts of the Middle East. It has made its way to other regions as an introduced species, establishing itself in parts of Africa, South America, Europe, and island nations in both the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Tree spinach is also cultivated in various regions beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info on Tree Spinach Growth and Care

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Basic Care Guide

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Lighting

Full sun

Tree spinach flourishes under the full strength of the sun, though it can adapt to lesser light. Sun exposure encourages robust growth, ensuring the plant's health. Originating from an environment where sun is plentiful, if light is excessively scarce or overly abundant, it could negatively impact its growth and vitality.

Best Sunlight Practices

Temperature

0 - 38 ℃

Tree spinach is native to a warm environment and tends to thrive within a temperature range of 68 to 95 °F (20 to 35 ℃). In colder seasons, consider using heat lamps to maintain the ideal temperature.

Temp for Healthy Growth

Transplant

3-4 feet

The impeccable time to transplant your tree spinach is during the fourth to fifth season (S4-S5), mainly because the plant has completed its initial growth phase and is ready for a new environment. The location should be well-drained, preferably with full sun exposure. Extra tip: Gently loosen the roots before planting. Happy Gardening!

Transplant Techniques

Feng shui direction

Northeast

Tree spinach aligns harmoniously with the Northeast sector, as per the principles of Feng Shui. This correlation is attributed to the plant's towering size and purifying abilities, symbolically representing growth and enhancement. However, this compatibility is a delicate equilibrium, to be adjusted according to individual circumstances and interpretations.

Fengshui Details

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Madagascar palm (Pachypodium geayi) is a bottle-shaped tree often cultivated for decorative purposes. Madagascar palm is considered hardy and tolerates very dry, hot environments. This species originates from southwest Madagascar and grows in various environments in the wild, including limestone, sandy soils, and dry forests. This species has a trunk that facilitates water storage, similar to the body of a cactus.

Lady's mantle

Lady's mantle (Alchemilla xanthochlora) is a plant species that has been a common staple in kitchen and cottage gardens for generations. This plant displays showy chartreuse flowers and is often planted in garden beds and walkway borders.

Kinnikinnick

Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is an intricately branching plant native to the Northern Hemisphere. This plant's blossoms have a sweet smell. The Latin name Arctostaphylos uva-ursi means 'grape of the bear,' referring to the plant's berries.

Kentia palm

Originally from Lord Howe Island in Australia, the Howea forsteriana is a slow-growing palm that is popular as a houseplant. Also known as the kentia palm, it was regarded as the quintessential "parlor palm" in the 19th century, because it can thrive indoors even with low light and low humidity.

Katsura tree

Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) is a deciduous tree that produces flowers. Male trees will produce red flowers, and female trees will produce green flowers. Butterflies and bees are attracted to the blossoms. It is a fast-growing tree that grows best in full sunlight to partial shade. It prefers rich soil, but is considered drought-tolerant once established.

Jewel orchid

Commonly known as the jewel orchid, Ludisia discolor is native to Southern China, Thailand, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Burma, and Vietnam. Prized for its unusual foliage, it is often used as a houseplant. It is considered easier to care for than other orchids, provided it is kept moist.

Cape jasmine

Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.

Golden pothos

The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.

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Tree spinach

Chenopodium giganteum

Also known as: Purple goosefoot

Commonly found in Mexico, tree spinach is both found in thickets in its natural habitat and cultivated in home gardens. It grows well in shady understories and does not tolerate cold well.

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Care Guide for Tree spinach

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Soil Care

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalky, Acidic, Neutral

Ideal Lighting

Full sun, Partial sun

Ideal Temperature

4 to 8

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Know the light your plants really get.

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Questions About Tree spinach

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Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Tree spinach?

What should I do if I water my Tree spinach too much or too little?

How often should I water my Tree spinach?

How much water does my Tree spinach need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Tree spinach enough?

How should I water my Tree spinach through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering Tree spinach indoors and outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Tree spinach?

How do I prune my Tree spinach?

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Tree spinach?

Are there any tips for pruning my Tree spinach?

When should/shouldn't I prune my Tree spinach?

What should I look for when pruning my Tree spinach in different seasons?

How much sunlight does Tree spinach need to grow?

What type of sunlight does Tree spinach need?

Should I protect Tree spinach from sun exposure?

What will happen if Tree spinach doesn't get enough sunlight?

What will happen if Tree spinach gets too much sunlight?

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Tree spinach?

What is the optimal temperature for Tree spinach?

How can I protect Tree spinach from extreme temperatures outdoors?

Does Tree spinach need different temperatures in different seasons?

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Tree spinach?

Why do I need to fertilize my Tree spinach?

When is the best time to fertilize my Tree spinach?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Tree spinach?

What type of fertilizer does my Tree spinach need?

How do I fertilize my Tree spinach?

What happens if I fertilize my Tree spinach too much?

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

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Key Facts About Tree spinach

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Attributes of Tree spinach

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Plant Height

2.5 m

Spread

1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Red

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Red

Green

Stem Color

Green

Pink

Yellow

Leaf type

Semi-evergreen

Ideal Temperature

20 - 35 ℃

Gain more valuable plant knowledge

Explore a rich botanical encyclopedia for deeper insights

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Scientific Classification of Tree spinach

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Family

Amaranth

Genus

Goosefoots

Species

Tree spinach

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Common Pests & Diseases About Tree spinach

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Common issues for Tree spinach based on 10 million real cases

Thrips

Thrips are 1 to 2 mm bugs with slender black or translucent-yellow bodies. They move quickly and feed on the plant's sap.

Learn More About the Thrips

Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

Learn More About the Caterpillars

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a white mold that appears on leaves. It can be wiped away.

Learn More About the Powdery Mildew

Nutrient deficiencies

A lack of nutrients will cause a widespread yellowing of the leaves. The yellowing may begin at the base or top of the plant.

Learn More About the Nutrient deficiencies

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App

Distribution of Tree spinach

Feedback

Habitat of Tree spinach

Weed infested places

Northern Hemisphere

South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Tree spinach

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info on Tree Spinach Growth and Care

Basic Care Guide

Explore More

Plants Related to Tree spinach

Feedback

Indoor

Requirements

Full sun

Ideal

Above 6 hours sunlight

Partial sun

Tolerance

About 3-6 hours sunlight

Watch how sunlight gracefully moves through your garden, and choose spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade for your plants, ensuring their happiness.

Essentials

Preferred

Tolerable

Unsuitable

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Artificial lighting

Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.

Important Symptoms

Symptoms of Insufficient Light in %s

Tree spinach thrives in full sunlight and is commonly cultivated outdoors. When grown indoors with limited light, it may exhibit subtle symptoms of light deficiency that can easily go unnoticed.

(Symptom details and solutions)

Small leaves

New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.

Leggy or sparse growth

The spaces between leaves or stems of your Tree spinach may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.

Faster leaf drop

When plants are exposed to low light conditions, they tend to shed older leaves early to conserve resources. Within a limited time, these resources can be utilized to grow new leaves until the plant's energy reserves are depleted.

Slower or no new growth

Tree spinach enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.

Lighter-colored new leaves

Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.

Solutions

1. To ensure optimal growth, gradually move plants to a sunnier location each week, until they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use a south-facing window and keep curtains open during the day for maximum sunlight exposure and nutrient accumulation.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.

Symptoms of Excessive light in %s

Tree spinach thrives in full sun exposure and can tolerate intense sunlight. With their remarkable resilience, symptoms of sunburn may not be easily visible, as they rarely suffer from it.

(Symptom details and solutions)

Chlorosis

Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.

Sunscald

Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.

Leaf Curling

Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.

Wilting

Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.

Leaf Scorching

Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.

Solutions

1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.

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Indoor

Requirements

Ideal

Tolerable

Unsuitable

Just like people, each plant has its own preferences. Learn about your plants' temperature needs and create a comforting environment for them to flourish. As you care for your plants, your bond with them will deepen. Trust your intuition as you learn about their temperature needs, celebrating the journey you share. Lovingly monitor the temperature around your plants and adjust their environment as needed. A thermometer can be your ally in this heartfelt endeavor. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you explore your plants' temperature needs. Cherish your successes, learn from challenges, and nurture your garden with love, creating a haven that reflects the warmth of your care.

Essentials

Regional wintering strategies

Tree spinach prefers relatively warm temperatures, so maintaining temperatures above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min} during winter cultivation is beneficial for plant growth. The minimum temperature should be kept above freezing point to prevent the plant from freezing damage. When the outdoor temperature approaches -5°C (25°F) during winter, it is advisable to bring Tree spinach indoors or provide protection by setting up a temporary greenhouse or using materials such as plastic film or fabric to wrap the plant.

Important Symptoms

Symptoms of Low Temperature in Tree spinach

Tree spinach has moderate tolerance to low temperatures and thrives best when the temperature is between {Suitable_growth_temperature_min} and {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, the leaves may darken in color. In severe cases, water-soaked necrosis, wilting, and drooping may occur, and the color of the leaves gradually turns brown.

Solutions

Trim away the frost-damaged parts. Immediately move indoors to a warm environment or set up a makeshift greenhouse for cold protection. When placing the plant indoors, choose a location near a south-facing window to ensure ample sunlight. If there is insufficient light, you can use supplemental lighting.

Symptoms of High Temperature in Tree spinach

During summer, Tree spinach should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the plant's growth slows down, the color of its leaves becomes lighter, and it becomes more susceptible to sunburn.

Solutions

Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the afternoon sun. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.

Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.

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Care Guide for Tree spinach

Questions About Tree spinach

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Key Facts About Tree spinach

Attributes of Tree spinach

Scientific Classification of Tree spinach

Common Pests & Diseases About Tree spinach

Distribution of Tree spinach

Habitat of Tree spinach

Distribution Map of Tree spinach

More Info on Tree Spinach Growth and Care

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Care Guide for Tree spinach

Questions About Tree spinach

More Questions People Also Ask

Key Facts About Tree spinach

Attributes of Tree spinach

Scientific Classification of Tree spinach

Common Pests & Diseases About Tree spinach

Distribution of Tree spinach

Habitat of Tree spinach

Distribution Map of Tree spinach

More Info on Tree Spinach Growth and Care

Plants Related to Tree spinach