LIGHT AND LOCATION

Lots of light and a few hours of weak sunshine!

It is a plant with great light needs and does not tolerate unluminous environments. The ideal place is one that receives a lot of light (remember that when we talk about light we speak, in general, of clarity) and a few hours of sun, morning or end of day, preferably. In the production sites, lyratas grow under diffuse light, so when they arrive at our homes they must be rustification, that is, adapt the plant to sunlight gradually. We can’t put it in strong sun right away, because if not used the leaf will burn. However, whenever possible, we must make this adaptation, since the sun is necessary for it to grow healthy. In places without sun, you must ensure that light is abundant. Inadequate lighting is one of the main causes for leaf loss and pest attack in this species.

WATERING

Water when the first layer of substrate is dry. Never allow the substrate to dry completely or become soaked!

The idea is that the substrate does not dwell too much or get soaked, so it is not always easy to find the balance between the two. When it comes to watering, check how the first layer of substrate is, it is to it that you should pay attention. Is it wet? Let’s wait another week and double check. Are the first inches of substrate dry? It’s time to water. A tip: as lyrata is very sensitive to soaking, wait another two days to ensure that although dry at the top, the vessel does not have too much moisture at the bottom. Generally speaking, if you notice brown spots on the leaves of the base, you are probably over-watering. If these stains occur on the top of the plant, this is an indicator that there is a lack of water

FERTILIZATION

Fertilize moderately!

It is a plant that can not withstand much fertilizer, so the frequency of fertilization should be a little more spaced than usual for most plants. Fertilizing every 2 months will be sufficient, only during the growing period. It should fertilize only during spring/summer while the plant is at its peak of development, and stop when the weather cools down and the production of new leaves slows down or even stops. You can also switch between liquid fertilizer (for green plants) and earthworm humus (just place a small layer of humus to cover the top of the substrate).

TOXICITY

Lyrata sap (the sticky white liquid that dwells when the leaf breaks or is pruned) is extremely toxic when ingested and can cause irritation when in contact with the skin. If it occurs, wash thoroughly with water.

Note: Regularly wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to prevent them from becoming too dusty and to give the plant extra moisture. This cleaning will contribute to a more efficient photosynthesis.