Saving a Struggling China Doll Plant: Light, Water & Pot Issues

Question

I got a China Doll tree for Christmas from a florist. It's in a 10" copper-colored metal pot, over 3 ft tall. Sits in living room with an OttLite shining 24/7. Water every 2-3 weeks. Leaves turning yellow, curling, falling. Large picture window but little direct sun; plant ~12 feet from window. Think I'm giving too much light? Will start using 1/2" dry soil test for watering—should I water sparingly?

Answer

Hi Sue, I researched the OttLite—their website makes vague claims. Best artificial light is standard fluorescent, close to plant, 8-10 hours daily (max 16). Better: natural light 3-6 feet from picture window depending on direction.

Don't pot directly in metal pots—copper/zinc can interact with soil nutrients. Many metal pots lack drainage. If needed, move to plastic pot with drain holes, same size as current. Avoid larger pots.

When watering, add enough so a small amount trickles through drain holes. Don't water again until top inch of soil feels dry.

Follow-up: OttLite marketing info found, but no artificial light equals natural light. Their site doesn't reveal spectral range. Light good for reading isn't necessarily good for plants. Plant growth depends on light quality (spectrum) and intensity (lumens)—unknown for OttLite.

Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC