Finding and Caring for Mimosa Pudica Plants for Sale

Mimosa pudica, also known as the sensitive plant or touch-me-not plant, is a fascinating houseplant that responds to touch by rapidly closing its leaves. This plant has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to videos showing its unique movements going viral online. If you’re looking to add a mimosa pudica plant to your own home here’s everything you need to know about finding them for sale and providing proper care.

Where to Buy Mimosa Pudica Plants

Mimosa pudica can be purchased from a variety of online and brick-and-mortar plant stores. Here are some of the best places to find sensitive plants for sale:

• Specialty online plant stores – Websites like Logee’s Plants for Home and Garden offer a nice selection of mimosa pudica plants shipped directly to your door, This is often the easiest way to get your hands on more unique varieties

• Amazon – Searching for “mimosa pudica plant” on Amazon turns up several listings for both seeds and young potted specimens Prices and plant sizes tend to vary

• Local nurseries – Check with nurseries in your area to see if they carry sensitive plants, especially in the spring/summer. The selection may be limited, but you can hand-pick the specific plant you want.

• Big box stores – Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s sometimes have mimosa pudica in stock seasonally, often mixed in with other houseplants. Call ahead to check availability.

When buying a sensitive plant, look for ones with vibrant green, healthy looking leaves and no signs of disease or pests. Smaller young plants adapt better to new environments than large, mature specimens.

Caring for Your Mimosa Pudica Plant

Once you get your mimosa pudica home, the key is providing consistent care tailored to its preferences. Here are some tips for keeping your sensitive plant happy and animated:

Light

Mimosa pudica thrives in full sun. Place it in a south or west facing window where it will get at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light leads to sparse foliage and limited movement. Rotate the plant periodically for even sun exposure.

Water

Water whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry, and avoid letting pots sit in standing water. The plant’s leaves will start to droop when it needs water. Allow excess water to drain fully from the drainage holes before returning the plant to its saucer.

Temperature & Humidity

Sensitive plants prefer warm temperatures between 60-90°F and moderately humid conditions. Keep them away from drafty areas as well as air vents and heaters which can dry the air. Use a humidifier or pebble tray to maintain 40-50% humidity.

Soil

A well-draining potting mix designed for tropical plants is ideal. Add in perlite or sand to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Re-pot every 2 years in the spring, moving up just 1 size bigger each time.

Fertilizer

Feed mimosa pudica with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Discontinue fertilizing in fall/winter months.

Pruning & Training

Pinch back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Prune damaged leaves and stems as needed. Insert plant stakes around the base to support any long dangling stems if desired.

Troubleshooting Common Mimosa Pudica Problems

Here are some common issues you may encounter and how to fix them:

• Drooping leaves – This is usually a sign of underwatering. Check soil moisture and water if dry. Drooping can also be from too little light.

• Sparse foliage – Insufficient sunlight causes sparse, bald patches. Move to a brighter location.

• Wilting – Let soil dry out more between waterings if overly wet. Rule out root rot.

• Leggy growth – Increase light exposure or prune back overgrown stems.

• Few leaf movements – Low light, low humidity, overwatering, and cooler temps all limit movement. Adjust care accordingly.

• Leaf spots/discoloration – Can indicate pests, fungus, or bacteria. Isolate plant, prune affected leaves, and treat with neem oil.

• Root rot – Usually caused by overly wet soil. Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.

With the right growing conditions and care, the mimosa pudica is a fun indoor plant that moves and responds to your touch. Just be sure to buy from a reputable source and learn its preferences. A little attention goes a long way towards keeping your sensitive plant animated and putting on a show!