The Balfour Aralia also known as the Polynesian Ivy is a popular tropical houseplant known for its showy, palm-like foliage. With its glossy, leathery leaves and gracefully arching stems, this plant adds an exotic, architectural element to indoor spaces. While relatively easy to care for, the Balfour Aralia has some specific needs to support lush, healthy growth. Read on for a complete care guide covering light, water, soil, humidity, and more to help your plant thrive.

One of the most important factors in caring for a Balfour Aralia is providing the right amount of light These plants prefer bright, filtered light rather than direct sun. An east or west-facing window is ideal, as the Aralia enjoys gentle morning or evening sun Too much harsh, hot sunlight will scorch the leaves.

If your space lacks sufficient natural light, utilize adjustable grow lights to illuminate your Aralia for 12-14 hours per day. Rotate the plant weekly so all sides receive equal light exposure. Avoid darkened corners and rooms with only artificial lighting. Insufficient light leads to sparse, leggy growth.

While the Balfour Aralia prefers moist soil, it is sensitive to overwatering. Only water when the top 1-2 inches become dry. Water thoroughly until it drains freely from the drainage holes, taking care not to saturate the pot. The leaves will start to droop slightly when it needs watering.

Always empty any collected water from the saucer so the roots don’t sit in excess moisture. Allow more time between waterings in winter when growth slows. The soil should never fully dry out or remain soggy.

A well-draining, loamy potting mix is vital for healthy roots and growth. Use a commercial blend formulated for tropicals, or create your own mix containing equal parts potting soil, perlite and peat moss or coco coir. This will provide the aeration and moisture retention the Aralia needs.

Add a thin layer of pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the pot for enhanced drainage. Repot every 2 years in spring, moving up just 1 size. Avoid overpotting, as the Balfour Aralia prefers being slightly rootbound.

The Balfour Aralia naturally grows in the humid tropics, so replicating these conditions indoors is key. Ideal humidity levels are 40-60%. Use a humidifier or pebble tray, and group plants together to increase moisture in the air. Mist the leaves daily with room temperature water.

Ensure the plant isn’t situated near heating vents or drafty windows, which will dry the air. Trim off any browned leaf tips or margins, which indicate the humidity is too low.

During spring through fall when growth is most active, fertilize your Balfour Aralia every 2-3 weeks. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength to avoid burning the roots. In winter, reduce application to once a month.

If using time-release fertilizer pellets, apply as directed in spring, and scratch gently into the soil surface. Cease feeding if leaf tips start browning, signaling over-fertilization. Flushing the soil can help remove excess salts.

To maintain its lush, full form the Balfour Aralia benefits from occasional pruning. In early spring, trim off any dead or damaged stems and leaves using clean shears. Pinching out the growing shoot tips regularly creates a fuller, bushier plant.

Thin out any overcrowded interior growth to allow better light penetration and air circulation. Remove crossings or congested stems. Never prune off more than 20% of the plant at one time to avoid stress.

The Balfour Aralia thrives in average household temperatures between 65-80°F. It prefers warm conditions with minimal temperature fluctuations. Avoid placing the plant in cold drafts or exposing it to extremes over 85°F or under 55°F for prolonged periods.

During the cooler months, move the Aralia away from drafty windowsills or entrances. A portable fan provides beneficial air circulation in summer to prevent heat stress.

When grown indoors, pests are not a major concern for the Balfour Aralia. However, mealybugs, spider mites, scale and aphids can sometimes attack. Isolate any affected plants immediately to prevent spreading.

Prune off heavily infested parts, and use insecticidal soap, neem oil or horticultural oil to treat mild cases. For severe infestations, introduce ladybugs or lacewings which will devour pests. Improve air flow around the plant.

By considering these essential care tips, you can have a lush, vibrant Balfour Aralia thriving inside your home. A bright location, consistent moisture, humidity and proper potting mix will keep it looking its tropical best for years of enjoyment.

Water thoroughly whenever the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry. Allow more time between waterings in winter. The leaves will droop slightly when it needs water.

Aim for 40-60% relative humidity around your Balfour Aralia. Use a humidifier, pebble tray or misting to maintain moisture levels.

Browning leaf tips usually indicate low humidity. Increase humidity levels around your plant by misting, using a humidifier or placing on a pebble tray.

Repot in early spring every 2 years, moving up just one pot size. The Balfour Aralia prefers being slightly rootbound versus overpotted.

Pinching out the shoot tips regularly and pruning any congested interior growth promotes bushier, more compact growth. Also ensure proper sunlight.

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 weeks during active growth. Reduce feeding over winter. Never fertilize dry or stressed plants.

Check regularly for aphids, spider mites, mealybugs and scale. Isolate and prune off affected parts. Use insecticidal soap or introduce predatory insects.

Dropped leaves can indicate underwatering, overwatering, low humidity or temperature extremes. Identify and correct the underlying cause.

Yes, this plant is toxic to pets and children if leaves or stems are ingested. Keep it out of reach or opt for a non-toxic alternative.

Take 5-6 inch stem cuttings in spring or summer. Dip in rooting hormone and plant in suitable potting mix. Enclose in a plastic bag until new growth emerges.

Following these care tips will result in a spectacular Balfour Aralia showcasing its signature lush, architectural foliage. With the right conditions, this tropical plant can thrive indoors for years.