Sandpaper Vine | Queen’s Wreath | Petrea volubilis

sandpaper vine (also known as Petrea volubilis) is a beautiful flowering vine native to tropical areas. It’s known for its unique, textured flowers and its vigorous growth. Here’s a day-to-day care plan for your sandpaper vine:

1. Light:

• Day-to-Day: Sandpaper vines thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. They can tolerate some direct sunlight but might prefer partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
• Care Tip: If grown indoors, place the vine near a sunny window. Outdoors, ensure it’s in a spot with good sunlight but shielded from the harsh midday sun.

2. Watering:

• Day-to-Day: Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Sandpaper vines don’t like to be waterlogged, so ensure proper drainage.
• Care Tip: Be sure to water deeply, but allow the soil to dry out a bit between waterings to avoid root rot.

3. Humidity:

• Day-to-Day: This vine enjoys moderate humidity but can tolerate dry air.
• Care Tip: If grown indoors in a dry environment, consider placing a humidity tray or using a misting bottle occasionally.

4. Temperature:

• Day-to-Day: Sandpaper vines prefer warmer temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 85°F (29°C). Protect it from cold drafts or frost if grown outdoors.
• Care Tip: During the winter, keep it indoors if your region experiences colder weather.

5. Fertilizing:

• Weekly or Bi-weekly: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your sandpaper vine with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks.
• Care Tip: In the fall and winter, reduce or stop fertilizing, as the plant’s growth slows down.

6. Pruning:

• Monthly or as needed: Trim back any overgrown vines or spent flowers to keep the plant looking tidy and encourage new growth.
• Care Tip: Prune after the vine has finished flowering to prevent cutting off potential blooms for the next season.

7. Support:

• Day-to-Day: As a vine, the sandpaper plant needs support to grow. Provide a trellis or other structures to help it climb.
• Care Tip: Gently guide the plant’s vines onto the trellis or support structure. You can also secure some parts with soft plant ties if necessary.