Fittonia going downhill

[Marb67]

Well I just can't fathom why such a heathly plant can go downhill after months of good growth. Now it's just leggy and scrappy. Not kept in low light or anything and exact same conditions as recommended. Does it need potting on and feeding?

[Marb67]

Anyone please? The other is going the same way.

[Nicos]

Not sure…but what are their root systems like?

[Jungle Jane]

I found a good video explaining watering & showing where to take cuttings & putting some directly back in the pot & some in water -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQZ9EnYKbLY

[Marb67]

Thanks Jane. I'll have a look. It just seems anything I buy is destined to failure.

[Marb67]

Well, tried the advice and they are getting worse. Story of my gardening life!

[Marb67]

Ps, I had to upload twice as this frustrating site said "please upload at least 1 photo" when I clearly did.

[Marb67]

Well, a year on and getting smaller after taking all advice. Last ditch attempt I have invested in grow lights so will leave it on blue overnight.

[Peanut]

What compost are you growing it in Marb? Is it a proper houseplant compost?

[Marb67]

As advised online Pearlite and peat moss. Although this sounds contradictory "must retain moisture while staying light, airy, and well-draining"

[Andraste]

RHS recommends a peat-free houseplant compost: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/fittonia

Edit to add: does peat moss not need to be mixed 50/50 with compost for growing houseplants? I'm no fittonia expert but I can't imagine much would want to grow without any nutrients.

[Peanut]

I think that is the problem Marb. Peat is low in nutrients, on the acidic side and holds on to water (think of a peat bog). It's really not good to use peat as the main component of your compost.
Ditch the peat, use a compost for houseplants, for your houseplants and use a multipurpose for your veg and outdoor plants.

I think if you do that you will see an improvement in everything you grow

[Marb67]

I think that is the problem Marb. Peat is low in nutrients, on the acidic side and holds on to water (think of a peat bog). It's really not good to use peat as the main component of your compost.
Ditch the peat, use a compost for houseplants, for your houseplants and use a multipurpose for your veg and outdoor plants.

I think if you do that you will see an improvement in everything you grow

Its not the peat moss. This is Clover's brand

Clover Multi-Purpose Compost - 60 Litres, Healthy Growth from Nutrient Enriched Formula

[Peanut]

Then I am at a complete loss Marb. Sorry, I can't think of any think of else you can try.

[JoaoLeaftide]

Fittonia really do hate being pot-bound and they sulk badly when the roots run out of room. If it hasn't been repotted in a while that's probably part of it. They also need humidity more than most houseplants, a pebble tray with water underneath makes a noticeable difference.