Keiki paste is a horticultural product designed to stimulate plant growth. It has gained popularity among houseplant enthusiasts, particularly for promoting new leaves and branches on Fiddle Leaf Figs.
Understanding Keiki Paste
Keiki paste is a plant growth stimulant containing plant hormones, primarily cytokinins. These regulators promote cell division in plant roots and shoots. Naturally produced in rapidly dividing tissues, cytokinins encourage cell growth and development, leading to new buds and shoots when applied. The paste consists of cytokinins suspended in a waxy carrier, such as lanolin, which helps it adhere to the plant and deliver the hormones.
Benefits for Fiddle Leaf Figs
Fiddle Leaf Figs (Ficus lyrata) are known for their large leaves but can exhibit leggy growth, characterized by long, bare stems with leaves only at the top. This often occurs due to insufficient light, causing the plant to stretch towards a light source. Keiki paste addresses this by stimulating new growth at dormant nodes along the stem, promoting a fuller, bushier plant. Encouraging lateral branching helps achieve a desired tree-like shape and fills in areas where leaves have dropped, creating a denser appearance.
Step-by-Step Application
Applying keiki paste to a Fiddle Leaf Fig requires precision. First, identify the application points, which are the nodes on the stem. Nodes are small, raised areas where leaves either emerge or once were, often appearing as a slight bump or ring. Gently clean the chosen node with a damp cloth to remove dust or debris, ensuring direct contact with the plant tissue.
Some sources suggest lightly scoring or puncturing the outer layer of the node with a sterile tool, like a thumbtack or needle, before applying the paste. This incision helps hormones penetrate the plant’s protective layer. Apply a tiny amount of keiki paste, roughly the size of a grain of rice, directly onto the scored node using a cotton swab or the provided applicator. The waxy consistency allows it to adhere to the plant without running.
After Application Care
Optimal environmental conditions support new growth after applying keiki paste. Fiddle Leaf Figs thrive in bright, indirect light, ideally from an east-facing window that provides morning sun. If direct sun is too intense, sheer curtains can filter the light. Adequate humidity levels, around 50%, support plant health and new development. Misting the leaves or placing a pebble tray with water near the plant can increase local humidity.
Consistent watering is also important. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering thoroughly, ensuring the pot has drainage holes to prevent soggy conditions. Fiddle Leaf Figs prefer temperatures between 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit and should be kept away from cold drafts or heating vents. Regular fertilization during the growing season provides necessary nutrients for robust new growth.
What to Expect and Troubleshooting
Results from keiki paste application vary, typically appearing within 1 to 6 weeks for Fiddle Leaf Figs, though some may take longer. New growth often manifests as small bumps or shoots emerging from treated nodes, developing into leaves or branches. This new growth can sometimes be slightly deformed initially due to concentrated hormones.
If no growth appears, several factors could be involved. Insufficient light is a common reason for a lack of response, as plants need adequate energy for new growth. Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light for at least eight hours daily.
The plant’s overall health impacts its response; a stressed, underwatered, or nutrient-deficient plant may not react as expected. If the initial application yields no results after several weeks, ensure the node was properly scored and paste applied directly to the stimulated area. Reapplication may be considered if the plant is healthy and environmental conditions are suitable.