How to Care for Hoya Houseplants

Hoyas, known for their cascading vines and fragrant flowers, bring charm to any indoor garden. Whether you’re a green-thumbed enthusiast or just starting your plant journey, Hoyas offer a wonderful combination of beauty and resilience.

Family: Asclepiadoideae

Genus: Hoya

Commonly: wax plant, porcelain flower plant

WATER

• Hoyas prefer slightly drier conditions compared to other houseplants – they’re close to succulents in nature! Allow the top few inches of soil to dry between soaks.

LIGHT

• These plants are pretty versatile about lighting conditions - they’ll thrive in bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower lighting levels.
• Providing ample light encourages growth and flowers in some varieties!

HUMIDITY & TEMP

• Hoyas can tolerate average home conditions but will enjoy a bit of extra moisture in the air, so offer a humidifier or pebble tray where possible in drier conditions.
• Keep temperatures consistent, avoiding drafts and sudden fluctuations throughout the seasons.

SOIL

• A well-draining mix with chunky media like perlite and orchid bark are best to promote root development and prevent rot.
  • Try our signature, hand-blended mix: Dirt Bag!
• Repot every 1-2 years to refresh nutrients and give the plant space to grow.

FERTILIZATION

• A balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season will keep your Hoya well-fed.
• Dilute to half strength or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant is heading into dormancy.
  • Incorporate our Arber Plant Food during your routine waterings to promote lush, bright foliage.
    • Pro-tip: Want to see those iconic blooms? Adopt a regular feeding routine to promote flower production.

PESTS

• Hoyas are generally resilient against pests but occasional checks are still crucial, especially in curly varieties like the Compacta where pests like mealy bugs can hide.
• Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to prevent dust buildup, maintain plant hygiene, and deter pests from setting up camp.

PRUNING & PROPPING

• Pruning your Hoya will help control its shape and size while promoting new growth! Remove older, yellowing leaves to encourage more energy.
• Propagate stem cuttings in water or soil and share the joy of Hoyas with fellow plant parents (or even just expand your own collection 😏).
  • Check out Water Propagation 101 for the how-to!