Plant Profile: How to Care for Watermelon Peperomia

If you want to know how to care for the Watermelon Peperomia, you have arrived at the correct place. We first need to mention that this plant isn’t related to the watermelon, although that is where the name comes from.

Originating from South America, the Watermelon Peperomia grows in moist environments. The most common place to find Watermelon Peperomia plant is in forests with fallen trees that are rotting.

Although it has plenty of room to grow in the wild, the plant only grows to roughly 20cm tall. This compact size makes the Watermelon Peperomia a perfect houseplant for everyone. It is a tropical plant that requires some care, but it isn’t the hardest plant to keep. Simply keep the soil moist and give the tropical plant plenty of light.

Watermelon Peperomia Care Guide

  • Light: Bright light, but indirect
  • Humidity: 
  • Temperature: 65-75º Fahrenheit
  • Watering: Keep the soil moist, but don’t overwater
  • Propagation: Leaf cuttings
  • Pests:  Fungus gnats, mites and mealybugs
  • Bloom: Yes 
  • Fertilise: Once every 2 – 4 weeks
  • Potting medium: Peat-based soil

Where do Watermelon Peperomia plants come from?

Peperomia plants come from South America. In the wild, they grow 12” tall. We recommend growing your Watermelon Pepermonia outdoors. If you wish to grow on indoors, then group it with other indoor plants.

Where should I keep my Watermelon Peperomia plant?

Keep your Watermelon Peperomia in a room that receives plenty of sunlight, but keep it out of direct sunlight.

Best light conditions for Watermelon Peperomia plant?

Peperomia plants are best kept in well-lit rooms. However, it’s recommended not to keep them in direct sunlight. I keep mine in the main room, but away from the window. Their natural habitat of a forest includes a lot of shade and short bursts of sunlight. Like with all plants, the goal is to replicate their natural environment as much as possible.

Best temperature for Watermelon Peperomia plant?

These plants like temperatures of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Try to keep your Watermelon Peperomia in temperatures above 50 degress Fahrenheit at the very minimum.

Best humidity for Watermelon Peperomia plant?

Peperomia plants survive fine with the average humidity found in homes. If you are concerned about the humidity levels, you can increase the humidity by misting the leaves on a daily basis. You could even use a pebble tray for a moisture boost.

How to water Watermelon Peperomia plants?

You need to get the watering just right with Watermelon Peperomia plants. Too much water will cause the plant’s roots to rot, whereas not enough water will cause your plant to wilt and die. Water your plant until all the soil is moist, but only re-water when the soil is dry again.

How to fertilise Watermelon Peperomia plants?

I recommend fertilizing your Watermelon Peperomia a few times a month from spring to summer.

Is the Watermelon Peperomia toxic?

The Watermelon Peperomia is non-toxic to both humans and pets. Peperomia plants are great for people who own cats or dogs.

What potting mix for Watermelon Peperomia plants?

I recommend using a peat-based potting mix for Watermelon Peperomia plants. You should start with 2/3 peat and 1/3 perlite.

How to propagate Watermelon Peperomia plants?

You can propagate Watermelon Peperomia plants by using leaf cuttings. It is done by removing the leaves, placing a rooting hormone on the area where you made the cut, and then inserting a seedling.

Verdict

So, that concludes our Watermelon Peperomia care guide. As you can see, these plants are relatively easy to care for, which makes them an excellent plant for beginners. Simply follow the basic Watermelon Peperomia care instructions for a plant that thrives.

Remember to give your plant plenty of light (not indirect), enough water (not waterlogged), and warmer conditions. Another tip is to keep your plant next to the other indoor plants in your house. The Watermelon Peperomia is small, so it looks great when paired with other plants.