How to Grow a Shamrock Plant

Shamrock plants are sold across much of the U.S. beginning in early March in celebration of St. Patrick's Day. According to legend, St. Patrick plucked the leaf of a shamrock at his feet to illustrate the Holy Trinity of "the father, the son and the holy ghost," but it has come to symbolize good luck or rebirth. Although the plants sold in nurseries during the holidays typically aren't real shamrocks-they are oxalis instead--they are similar in appearance and much easier to grow.

Sunlight
Place the shamrock plant in an area that receives direct sunlight, but avoid areas that become over-heated. Shamrocks prefer temperatures below 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 50-65 degrees during the night. When temperatures soar above 75, oxalis often enters dormancy. During winter months, shamrocks may thrive in bright southern or western windows, but may need to be moved to eastern windows in summer to avoid over heating.

Watering
Water your shamrock plant when the soil is dry to the touch and allow the soil to dry between waterings. Shamrocks prefer slightly dry soil and suffer is soil is kept too moist. Observe your plants for signs of wilting and develop a regular schedule of watering to promote healthy growth. Watering needs vary depending on the season, growth and conditions in your home.

Fertilizing
Fertilize with water-soluble houseplant fertilizer once or twice a month during periods of active growth-typically between March and late fall.

Dormancy
Oxalis may enter dormancy if temperatures are too high or when the plant needs a rest. Although it may look dead, this really isn't the case. During dormancy, leaves die back and drop and the plant ceases growth. Move the plant to a cool dark area for several months and stop watering it. When new leaves appear, move the plant to sunny location and resume watering.

Propagating
Divide plants during dormancy to create new plants if preferred. Dig into the soil and remove and separate the tiny bulbs. Repot in loose friable potting soil and keep the newly potted bulbs in a cool dark area until new shoots appear. Dividing oxalis in October or November produces healthy new plants for next St. Patrick's Day.

Move to a sunny location and resume normal care.