La Mimosa pudicaMimosa pudica, more popularly known as the sleepyhead or sensitive plant, is one of the most fascinating plant species in the world of amateur gardening and home botany. Its ability to move its leaflets when touched has sparked the curiosity of thousands of people, both for its ornamental potential and for its spectacular reaction to contact. But what do you need to know to plant a mimosa pudica at home and enjoy its surprising behavior?
If you've ever seen a mimosa pudica in action, you've probably been amazed, but the truth is that growing and caring for this plant at home is easier than you imagine. From sowing from seed and propagating from cuttings to essential care to keep it healthy and vigorous, here you'll find a comprehensive and simple guide to ensure your mimosa pudica grows strong.
What is Mimosa pudica and why does it move?
La Mimosa pudica It is a perennial plant native to tropical areas of Central and South America. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is known by such varied names as mimosa, dormilona, sensitive, or moriviví. Its compound leaves, divided into small leaflets arranged in two parallel rows, fold back almost instantly when you touch them. This phenomenon, called seismicity, is because the plant redirects the flow of water in its cells to protect itself from mechanical stimuli, such as touch or wind.
Beyond this plant 'trick', the mimosa pudica also stands out for its pink pompom flowers They appear mainly in summer, offering an exotic touch to any space where you want to have it. Furthermore, although it tends to be considered an indoor plant in temperate climates due to its sensitivity to cold, it can also be grown outdoors in regions where temperatures are warm year-round.
Reproduction of Mimosa pudica: propagation by seeds and cuttings
For those who wish to multiply their mimosa pudica plants, there are two main methods: reproduce it by seeds or use cuttings. Each has its own characteristics and advantages.
Propagation by seeds
La Sowing mimosa pudica from seed It is one of the most common and simple methods. However, it's important to keep in mind some details to ensure successful germination:
- The seeds have a very hard shell. Before sowing them, it is advisable Soak them in water at room temperature for 24 to 48 hoursThis step softens the cortex and makes it easier for the embryo to sprout.
- If the seeds are especially dry, they may take longer to swell and settle to the bottom of the container. Don't use hot water, as this could damage the embryo.
- The best time to sow them is at late winter or early spring, when there's no longer a risk of frost. However, you can do it year-round if you have adequate indoor temperature and light.
Steps to sow Mimosa pudica seeds
- Prepare the substrate: Use a seed tray or small pot and mix organic-rich soil with worm castings and river sand to ensure good drainage.
- Moisten the substrate abundantly before placing the seeds to check that it drains properly.
- Shallow sowing: The seeds are tiny, so you only need to cover them lightly with a thin layer of substrate.
- Spray water gently so as not to displace the seeds.
- Place the seedbeds in a bright place and warm, ideally at temperatures between 20 and 25°C; it protects from the cold and drafts.
- Keep humidity constant without flooding. They usually germinate in 20 to 30 days, although some seeds may take a little longer.
- When they have at least 4 or 5 leaves or reach 10-15 cm in height, transplant to the final location.
An extra tip is to cover the seedbed with a clear plastic bag (allowing it to air out for a few minutes each day) to maintain stable humidity and temperature, but prevent the growth of mold.
Reproduction by cuttings
The second common method is the reproduction by cuttingsThis is very useful if you already have an adult mimosa pudica or access to a healthy one. How do you proceed?
- Cut branch segments 10 to 15 cm long, making sure they have 4 or 5 yolks.
- Prepare a pot with a layer of gravel or stones at the bottom to promote drainage, and add a substrate rich in organic matter and humus.
- Moisten the substrate and plant the cuttings, making sure they are firm and the buds are above the soil.
- Spray the cuttings regularly and use a transparent cover to maintain humidity, ventilating daily.
- In about 40 to 50 days the cuttings should have rooted and you can transplant them permanently.
- If you want to increase the success of rooting, you can apply natural rooting agent based on lentils or specific commercial products.
Care guide for Mimosa pudica
The mimosa pudica is a hardy plant, but it requires some care to stay healthy and ensure its characteristic blooms are visible. Below, we explain the keys to caring for it properly, both in a pot and in the garden.
Location and exposure
The modest mimosa needs a lot of light to grow vigorously, whether indoors or outdoors. Ideally, place it in a location where it receives direct sunlight for several hours a day. Indoors, find the brightest room in the house. In summer, you can take it outside to get plenty of sun, taking care to avoid extreme heat that can over-dry the substrate.
Climate and temperature
This plant prefers warm temperatures, never below 10°C. If you grow it outdoors in cold areas, it's a good idea to move it indoors during the winter or when there's a risk of frost. Sudden changes in temperature or drafts can stress the plant and cause it to temporarily lose leaves.
Irrigation
El water regularly It's essential for their health. Always keep the substrate moist, avoiding overwatering, as this can cause root rot. In summer, water approximately twice a week, while in winter, reduce this to once every 10 days or depending on environmental conditions.
Soil and substrate
Choose a substrate that drains well and is rich in nutrientsYou can prepare a homemade one by mixing universal soil, worm castings, and river sand. Add a layer of gravel to the bottom of the pot to improve drainage. For maintenance, fertilize with slow-release organic fertilizer or fertilizer for green plants, always following the instructions.
Repotting the plant when the roots fill the pot is key to its growth. Use a larger container and fresh potting soil, taking care not to damage the root ball. Recovery after repotting is usually rapid and requires no special care beyond normal care.
Pruning
You can make a light pruning To remove dry or malformed branches. This promotes more compact growth and encourages the emergence of new leaves. Pruning also helps keep the plant healthy, but it's not strictly necessary if it doesn't present any problems.
Pests and diseases of Mimosa pudica
Like any plant, the mimosa pudica can be a victim of common pests like mites, aphids, mealybugs, and fungi. It's advisable to check it regularly for signs such as yellow spots, cobwebs, black spots, or visible insects. Early detection facilitates effective treatment with organic products such as potassium soap, neem oil, or natural insecticides, always following the package instructions.
To avoid problems, it is essential to maintain proper watering, avoid excess humidity, and provide good ventilation for the plant.
Curiosities of the Mimosa pudica
The sleeper captivates not only with its movement, but also with its educational and ornamental value:
- Its rapid movements have fascinated botanists and hobbyists for centuries, and in some cultures it was used as a 'plant alarm' to detect intruders in gardens and mansions.
- In nature, this retreat mechanism acts as an evolutionary strategy to protect against herbivores and external threats.
- It closes its leaves at nightfall and opens them again at dawn, following a natural circadian cycle.
Reproducing it every few years ensures vigorous plants and maintains their life cycle in optimal conditions. The plant has a life expectancy of approximately five years in a pot, so it is advisable to replant your plants periodically.
