Watering:
Normally, water sparingly and avoid prolonged waterlogging of the potting soil. Keep the soil dry in winter and maintain in a bright indoor location. It's difficult to distinguish Portulaca gilliesii from other plants in the Crassulaceae family based on leaf shape alone, but flowering provides a clear distinction. In summer, it produces small pink flowers that are larger than the plant itself. The flowering period for Portulaca gilliesii is relatively long, spanning from early summer to early autumn.
Growing Environment
Portulaca gilliesii requires full sunlight but should be protected from direct sunlight during hot summers. During summer, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent a stuffy, humid environment, which can lead to root rot and leaf drop. Portulaca gilliesii prefers abundant sunlight; exposure to sunlight is essential in spring and autumn to promote flowering. The more sunlight, the better for Portulaca gilliesii; under strong light, its green leaves absorb ultraviolet light and exhibit a purple hue, resembling beautiful purple rice grains.
Watering:
The leaves of Portulaca gilliesii have high water retention, so their water requirements are not very high. Watering does not need to be frequent; water can be supplemented when the soil in the pot becomes slightly dry. Avoid overwatering; moistening the soil is sufficient.
Potting Mix:
Portulaca gilliesii prefers loose, well-draining, and fertile soil. If the soil becomes nutrient-deficient or compacted, it should be replaced promptly. Soil selection should not be arbitrary; using garden soil alone is not ideal for growing Portulaca gilliesii. It is recommended to add some river sand when preparing the soil to improve its drainage. To enrich the soil, fermented and matured compost can be used, or some well-fermented organic fertilizer can be added to the soil.
Propagation Method:
Simply place fallen branches into the soil, and they will root on their own.
Cultivation Technique:
Prepare a small round pot and fill it with planting soil, forming a hemisphere shape. As Portulaca gilliesii clusters are small and numerous, this hemispherical mound of soil should suit their densely packed growth habit. Try to make the soil mound as rounded and full as possible.
Pot the Portulaca gilliesii clusters one by one. Insert them layer by layer from bottom to top according to the curvature of the potting soil. Arrange the Portulaca gilliesii clusters neatly, leaving some space between them for future robust growth. When handling, do not apply too much force; gently press the Portulaca gilliesiis onto the soil surface.
Place the flower pot in a semi-shaded environment and observe the growth of the Portulaca gilliesiis regularly. Replant any accidental fallen ones back into the pot promptly. Monitor the moisture level of the soil, spray water as needed, and ensure the soil remains moist to facilitate root growth.