Is there some kind of root stimulator I can give to my Hawaiian Blue Eyes plant?
I recently transplanted it outdoors and noticed the roots seem short and thin in proportion to the plant's size. It also looks a little pale and some fronds have dried up.

I don't know it if's from being indoors - too much water - not enough sun, or a porous enough soil, or what. I have not fed it throughout the winter indoors.

Any suggestions?
thanks,

Answer #1 · John Heider's Answer · Barbara-This is a great question. All of the items you mentioned I believe are the reason for your plants decline. The best root stimulator for your plant I belive is the change you just gave to your plant. Your Hawaiian Blue Eyes (Evolvulus) can be grown indoors successfully, but it is happiest outdoors. It needs plenty of light, extremly well drained soil, kept moist not wet, and a light fertilization during its growing and long blooming period from spring til fall. During the winter months indoors it needs very little water and no fertilization until spring.

Evolvulus loves the heat and direct sunlight or light shade. It sounds as though being indoors it has not had enough sunlight and had too wet a soil for healthy foliage and root development. Sitting in wet soil will cause undevelped root systems due to root rot, and possible fungus problems. Constantly wet soil also blocks oxygen and nutrients from being absorbed by the plants roots.

In cooler winter climates it is planted as an annual in gardens or planted in pots and wintered indoors until spring or until any chance of frost is over. It is not cold tolerant.

In their natural environment the evolvulus grows in poor sandy well drained soil. Whether planted in the ground or potted make sure the soil is well draining. Keep moist but not wet. If potted make sure there are good drainage holes in the bottom and if in a tray always empty it of any standing water.

I believe moving your plant outdoors in sufficient bright light or sunlight, keeping it moist, not wet, and ferilizing occasionally it will recover. You can fertilize in the spring and then mid-summer with a slow release ballanced granular fertilizer or a water soluable fertilizer 1/2 strenght every month or so from spring to fall. Moving it outdoors now if no more frost is expected was a good choice. It should have time time to acclimate itself to its environment change prior to the warmer weather. These changes should also provide more abundant blooms. Hope this helps you.)