The active weather in Brunei Darussalam has brought with it torrential rains, but when the sun decides to show up, it scorches!
Some of my plants are practically begging for mercy. Root rot threatens some, while others have literal holes burned through their leaves from too much sun.
But not my hoyas, my readers. Oh no, these plants are thriving in this rollercoaster weather! The humidity is perfect for them, helping them grow lush and, most importantly, bloom fiercely.
But let’s talk about something even more magical – sun-stressing.
For those who aren’t familiar, sun-stressing is a process where plants, especially succulents and cacti, are exposed to higher level of sunlight, causing their leaves to change colour – typically a beautiful blush or reddish hue.
It’s not just about aesthetics though. Hoyas, while not as famous for sun-stressing as succulents, can do it too. And they do it well!
So, what exactly is sun-stressing for hoyas? Essentially, when exposed to the right amount of sunlight, their leaves can turn vibrant shades of pink, red, or even purple, giving them a stunning, sun-kissed glow.
This process happens when the plant produces anthocyanins, a pigment that acts as a natural sunscreen. But be warned: sun-stressing takes time, and you’ll need patience to figure out the perfect location and intensity of light for your hoya.
Too little sun and the colours won’t develop. Too much sun, and you’ll end up with crispy leaves instead of a radiant blush.
One hoya that showcases why certain varieties should be sun-stressed is the Hoya Sunrise.
In my opinion, it’s the poster child for why hoyas need a bit of sun stress in their lives. Under the right conditions, its leaves transform from a bright green to a striking red or maroon, making the plant a showstopper.
The contrast between the vibrant leaves and its delicate blooms is simply breathtaking. But remember, not all hoyas are made for sun-stressing. Some are more delicate and prefer to stay in shaded or low-light areas, so always do your research.
Now, why should you even bother with sun-stressing your hoyas besides the visual appeal? Well, apart from the aesthetic benefits, sun-stressed plants are often hardier and more resilient.
The extra sun exposure encourages stronger growth and can even boost flowering. In other words, a little sun stress may just be the secret to helping your hoya thrive in the long run.
But, as I mentioned earlier, sun-stressing takes time. Don’t expect to place your hoya outside and see vibrant colours the next day.
It’s a gradual process, and you may need to experiment with different spots in your garden or home to find the perfect light intensity.
Start slow, maybe with a few hours of morning sun, and gradually increase the exposure.
Patience is key, but the results are definitely worth it. So, while not every hoya will appreciate direct sunlight, those that do – like the Hoya Sunrise – will reward you with striking colours and increased vigour. Just remember, as with most things in gardening, balance is essential.
Too much sun and you’ll scorch your plants. Too little, and you’ll miss out on the vibrant hues that make sun-stressing worth it. So, take your time, experiment, and enjoy the process of watching your hoyas blush under the Bruneian sun!. – Wardi Wasil
