Coca plants (Erythroxylum coca) can thrive indoors, even in a living room, as long as specific care requirements are met. Below is a comprehensive guide to successfully growing Coca plants, from soil preparation to light and fertilization.
1. Soil Mixture
Coca plants thrive in well-aerated, mineral-rich soil that retains moisture effectively.
- Ideal Soil Mix:
- 4 parts of high-quality potting soil (preferably for Hydrangea, Rhododendron, or Heather).
- 1 part cocopeat.
- 1 part vermiculite.
- Trace Elements: Add 1 teaspoon of lava meal per container annually.
- Optimal pH and EC Values:
- pH: 5.8 (acceptable range: 5.0–7.0).
- EC: 1.2 mS (acceptable range: 0.5–1.6 mS).
2. Temperature and Humidity
- Temperature: Maintain an average of 25°C (acceptable range: 20–30°C).
- Mature plants can tolerate brief drops to 10°C, but seedlings must remain warm.
- Humidity: High air humidity is essential.
- Place dishes of water near the plant to increase humidity.
- Cover young plants with transparent plastic, ensuring proper ventilation by making holes in the covering.
- Watering:
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Use fresh, room-temperature rainwater instead of tap water.
- Water only when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry.
3. Light Requirements
- Coca plants need at least 12 hours of light daily:
- Winter: Use LED grow lights for young plants and place them on sunlit window sills.
- Summer: Move plants outdoors to a sheltered, shaded spot during midday.
- Artificial lighting is particularly important from October through winter.
4. Fertilization
- Fertilize between March and September using a nutrient-rich fertilizer with trace elements to prevent deficiencies like iron or magnesium.
- Recommendation: Peters 2nd Phase fertilizer
- For young plants grown under artificial light, fertilize lightly during winter.
5. Diseases and Stress Management
Coca plants are generally resilient but may experience stress or leaf drop when relocated.
- Care Tips for Recovery:
- Reduce watering.
- Maintain high humidity and bright light.
- Address pests such as red spider mites or aphids with proper treatments.
6. Cuttings and Sowing
- Leaf Harvesting: Harvest up to one-third of mature leaves for tea or chewing.
- Cuttings: Take cuttings during spring or early summer and grow them in a heated propagator out of direct sunlight.
- Seed Propagation: Older plants produce berries with seeds in late summer. Sow seeds immediately after harvest for optimal germination.
Final Note
Growing Coca plants requires attention to detail, but the process is highly rewarding. With proper care, these plants will flourish and provide an ongoing supply of vibrant leaves and seeds.
🌿 Good luck with your Coca cultivation journey! 🌱