What is wrong with your vinca?

What is wrong with your vinca?

Vinca, periwinkle or Sada Bahar are found all around India all year. As simple as they look, these are adored by every Indian. From North to South, East to West every household has vincas flowering. These plants have a lot of religious significance as well as aesthetic purpose.  As far as sunlight walks in your garden, these are some of the easiest growing plants. 

An easy-to-care guide to growing vincas is helpful if you’re growing it for the first time. 

However, there are times when these plants struggle. Be it issues with watering or sunlight, we are here to help you. 

Vinca not flowering: 

Improper sunlight can lead to lesser flowering. Vincas need at least 5-6 hours of full sunlight. Without it, the plant will grow leggy and won’t produce any flowering. If improper sunlight is not an issue, then some other underlying issues might lead to no blooms. Such issues are discussed here. 

Vinca leaves yellowing:

Yellowing of leaves is a natural process as the plant tries to conserve its energy for proper growth of the plant. Although abnormal yellowing of leaves can be a symptom of a problem. Based on which part of the vinca leaves are yellowing, we can figure out the underlying issue. 

From the bottom: 

Sometimes, vinca plants start yellowing leaves from the bottom and dropping them. Despite watering it regularly and with proper sunlight this happens. It could be because the plant is root-bound to its growing pot. As the roots have no more space to grow it starts dropping its older leaves to compensate for its energy. 

Repotting it in a bigger pot will help it grow better. 

From the top: 

The new leaves yellowing is a clear sign of root rot or infestation. It is highly recommended to check the root and if there is any root rot (black mushy roots that break easily) cut them off and repot it in a well-draining soil with fungicide (for extra care and precaution). 

If any pest infestation in the roots, you should change the soil and add fungicide to get rid of the pests. 

Vinca stems growing leggy:

Are you noticing that your vinca is growing very long stems with barely any leaves? Well, that’s a leggy plant growing. This happens when the plant is struggling to get sunlight. Moving the plant to an area of full sunlight will help it grow more leaves and eventually give flowers. 

Vinca leaves browning:

Browning of leaves occurs after the yellowing of leaves. If the leaves are crispy and brown, your vinca is underwatered. While mushy and soggy leaves are a sign of over-watering. Keep the plant in good sunlight and do not water until the top soil is dry. And if the plant is too much in water, repot it into fresh soil.  

Vinca leaves drooping: 

Vinca plant as such can be very sensitive. A sudden repot or change in environment can lead to drooping of leaves. At such times forgiving the plant and being patient is the solution.  If your plant suddenly shows this sign out of nowhere, then it’s a case of pest infestation. Using fungicide or a chemical pesticide that’s suitable for soil is recommended.

Or it could be a typical sign of underwatering and the plant should be watered immediately. 

Vinca with pests: 

Aphids and spider mites love vincas. Maybe more than we do. Any sign of a weak plant can attract them easily. 

The key to keeping a plant pest-free is keeping it healthy. Plants have their own mechanism and function to protect themselves from pests and predators. That’s why plants in the wild survive so well. This defence mechanism in constricted environments (pots and inside homes) becomes a bit weak. And if the plant is healthy, they cannot protect themselves. 

Aphid attack-

Aphids are tiny black or white flies-like pests. They usually hide under the leaves and devour flower buds leading to damaged flowers and leaves growing. Using neem oil diluted with water (2ml/litre) every 3-4 days until they’re not seen anywhere. Make sure to spray in every nook and corner of the plant. 

Spider mites/mealy bugs:

Use rubbing/ isopropyl alcohol directly on the mealy bugs, this melts their outer coating thus exposing them to air and they die away. 

An alternate option includes the use of neem oil 2ml/litre of water or liquid soap 2ml/litre of water as a spray. Use this mix every 2-3 days as long as the pests are no more. Make sure to spray every nook and corner of the vinca as these notorious pests hide well. 

In case, these homemade remedies don’t work, Imidacloprid an insecticide can be used in 0.5gms/litre of water every 5-6 days till no pests are found. Make sure to cover your eyes, hands and mouth while using chemical insecticides. Especially when using higher doses of these substances. 

Vinca fungus attack:

It’s always recommended to use SAAF fungicide for any type of fungus attack. 2gms/litre of water and spraying it all over the plant every 10- 5 days does the job well. 

Sadabahar is very easy growing plants, if given the right conditions, they never stop blooming. Make sure to follow these tips and subscribe to our page to learn more about plant care!

FAQs about Vinca Plant Care

1. Why is my vinca not flowering?
The major reason why vincas do not flower is insufficient sunlight. Ensure your vinca gets direct sunlight for at least 5-6 hours daily. Other reasons could include poor soil nutrition or overwatering.

2. Why are my vinca leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves could indicate overwatering, underwatering, or root-related problems. Check if the soil is too wet or dry and also check the roots for any signs of rot or infestation.

3. How do I treat pests like aphids or spider mites on vinca plants?
For aphids, use neem oil spray (2ml/litre water) every 3-4 days. For spider mites, apply rubbing alcohol directly or use neem oil or soap spray. Persistent infestations may require chemical insecticides like Imidacloprid.

4. Can vinca plants grow indoors?
Yes, vincas can grow indoors if placed in a bright, sunny spot. Ensure they receive indirect sunlight for most of the day and are in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.

5. How often should I water vinca plants?
Water vinca plants when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause leaves to turn brown and crispy.

6. Are vinca plants poisonous?
Yes, vinca plants contain alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Keep them away from pets and small children.

7. How can I propagate vinca plants?
Vinca plants can be propagated through cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water or soil. Ensure it gets indirect sunlight until roots develop.