Tractor Seat Plant Care Guide – Growing Ligularia reniformis in New Zealand

How to Plant and Grow A Tractor Seat Plant

Planting a Tractor Seat Plant and getting it to grow well is generally easy when you get a few of the basics right. This involves planting them in the right soil type, choosing the most ideal planting position, and ensuring the plants have the essentials to thrive. The Plant Company has the right advice to give you the greatest chance of success when growing a Tractor Seat Plant.

Can Ligularia Grow In Full Sun?

Ligularia can grow in full sun, but they prefer partial shade. In full sun, Ligularia may require more frequent watering and may be more susceptible to pests and diseases. It is also important to note that some Ligularia species may scorch in full sun, especially in hot climates.

Can You Grow A Tractor Seat Plant Indoors?

Tractor Seat Plants (Ligularia reniformis) are commonly grown indoors. You’ll often see them in the foyer gardens of large buildings. They are well-suited for such environments as they prefer bright, indirect light. An indoor environment that is not heavily shaded and receives natural light is therefore ideal. Try to avoid placing them next to a window that receives full sun for long periods as this can cause scorching on the leaves. A south-facing window is generally fine, however. Below are a few more tips for growing amazing Tractor Seat Plants indoors:

• Keep the soil evenly moist, but not sodden. Ideally, you’ll water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
• The plants should be grown in a well-draining potting mix.
• Tractor Seat Plants prefer moderate humidity. You can increase the humidity around your plant by grouping it with other plants or placing it on a pebble tray filled with water.
• Tractor Seat Plants prefer temperatures between 10-25 degrees Celsius.
• Avoid placing them near drafty windows or vents.
• Feed your Tractor Seat Plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
• Repot your Tractor Seat Plant every 2-3 years into a larger pot.
• Watch out for pests and diseases, such as aphids, mealybugs, and fungal diseases.

With proper care, your Tractor Seat Plant should thrive indoors and add a touch of the tropics to your home.

How To Plant A Tractor Seat Plant

Choose a full sun position with good drainage for your Tractor Seat Plant. The hole should be dug to at least 50-75% deeper and wider than the container the plant is currently growing in. A planting spade makes the hole digging a lot easier. The Plant Company recommends incorporating compost or sheep pellets into the soil to provide additional organic material, but this is not essential. Do not put fertiliser in the bottom of the hole, rather spread that on the soil surface after planting, and preferably do this when the plant is actively growing in spring.

Remove the plant from the container it is growing in by either pulling it free or by cutting the bag. We recommend cutting the bag to minimise any chance of damaging the roots. If the roots have been circling the inside of the pot or they look totally root bound, you don’t need to cut them as the this does more damage and adds no benefit from our experience and research (refer to, Managing Rootbound Plants, for more information).

Now place the plant in the hole and make sure it is level with the soil surface before filling in around it. If it is above the soil surface, dig more out. If it is below, put in more soil and retest the level. Once the plant is set level with the soil surface, add more soil gradually and firm it around the plant using gentle pressure as you go. Scatter shrub fertiliser across the soil surface after planting and the give the plant a good watering.

What Are Good Garden Uses For Tractor Seat Plants?

Tractor Seat Plants are widely planted across NZ in a variety of garden settings. The Plant Company often recommends they are used to bring a bold and dominant element to a mixed planting. Similarly, they are a must for any garden where a tropical theme is desired. We also often use them to border a path or walkway with larger plants as a backdrop. They certainly come into their own when used in pool gardens or around other water features. A few other options for them include:

• They love moisture, so they are a great choice for planting near ponds or streams. They can help to add visual interest to the water's edge and provide a habitat for wildlife.
• Ligularia can thrive in the dappled shade of a woodland garden. They can be used to add colour and texture to the understory of trees and shrubs.
• Ligularia can be used to add height and drama to borders. They can be planted with other shade-loving plants, such as hostas, ferns, and impatiens.
• Ligularia can also be grown in containers. This is a good option if you have limited space or if you want to be able to move your plants around. Be sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system and provide good drainage.

When planting Ligularia, be sure to space the plants far enough apart so that they have room to grow. They can spread quite large, so it is important to factor in their mature size when choosing a planting location.

What Can I Plant Next To A Tractor Seat Plant?

There are a multitude of plants you can put next to a Tractor Seat Plant. A few of the more common options are highlighted below:

• Hostas are large-leaved plants that come in a variety of colors and textures. They are a good choice for planting with Ligularia because they have similar growing requirements and provide a contrasting texture.
• Ferns are another good choice for planting with Ligularia. They can help to create a lush, woodland feel in your garden.
• Heuchera, also known as coral bells, produces colorful foliage in a variety of shades. It is a good choice for planting with Ligularia because it provides a contrasting colour and texture.

When choosing what to plant with Ligularia, be sure to consider the size of each plant and their growing requirements. You want to choose plants that will complement each other in terms of size, colour, and texture. You should also make sure that the plants have similar growing requirements, such as light and water needs.

Where Is The Best Place To Plant A Tractor Seat Plant?

The best place to plant Ligularia (The Tractor Seat Plant) will depend on the specific variety, but they prefer a moist, well-drained soil in partial shade. The most critical element for success is a well-drained soil. If you want your plant to remain evergreen and not die back during winter, it will need to be planted in a frost-free area or protected during winter with frost cloth.

While it can tolerate full sun, some leaf scorching can occur if plants are not accustomed to it or there is a period of extended, bright sunlight during summer. They are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit occasional watering during dry periods.

Tractor Seat Plant Care

Caring for Tractor Seat Plants is about making sure the plants are thriving. Our plant care articles provide the necessary details to give you the greatest chance of success. Afterall, there is nothing worse than investing in the plants, putting the effort into planting them, and then having them fail. Therefore, follow our advice and give yourself the best chance of success.

How To Care For A Tractor Seat Plant

The most important part starts with planting, and our article, How To Plant A Tractor Seat Plant, provides sound advice on how to do this properly. So, let’s now assume your plant is growing well and you want to keep it that way!

Winter is the perfect time for mulching your plants. Organic matter such as compost or sheep pellets should be spread liberally around the plants and then overlaid with mulch. The Plant Company has three very good options for mulch. The first is coco fibre matting which is made from the husks of coconuts. The second is Earth Mat which is made from recycled paper. Both of these break down to become part of the soil within two years. The third is black plastic matting which will last 20 years or more. Whichever mulch is used, The Plant Company recommend stones, bark chip, or other similar products be spread over top for aesthetic purposes. The Plant Company does not recommend adding fertiliser during winter as this is better applied in spring so less is wasted. However, adding organic matter such as compost is quite okay.

Spring is the perfect time for fertilising the plants as they start to bounce into life. The Plant Company has fertilisers which have been specially blended for different plants and in this instance, our Shrub Fertiliser will give them the correct boost and keep them fed for 12-months. A suitable alternative is our organic fertiliser which will also keep them well fed but they will require a secondary application in autumn.

Summer is when the plants need regular watering and this should be undertaken every second day on the hottest days. Plants that are establishing need particular attention as their root system will not have penetrated deep enough to secure consistent moisture yet.

Caring for Tractor Seat Plants in autumn is about keeping the plants healthy. Foliar feeding using a liquid fertiliser can be undertaken during spring, summer, and autumn if you have time but this is not essential if solid fertiliser and/or good amounts of organic matter have already been applied. If you think the plants need an extra boost or have some yellowing, however, a liquid fertiliser won’t hurt. They will start to die back in autumn in colder climates to regenerate in spring. Feel free to remove any sick looking leaves during this time and to stop watering them while they are dormant.

Plants should be checked for pest or disease issues during spring, summer, and autumn. If anything is looking unusual, refer to our articles under Tractor Seat Plant Problems.

What Care Does A Tractor Seat Plant Grown Indoors Need?

Your Tractor Seat Plant will reward you with lush and beautiful foliage if given the right care when grown indoors and here are a few of the essential elements:

• Bright, indirect sunlight is essential. Ideally, place it near a south-facing window or somewhere receiving filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during midday, as it can scorch the leaves. Rotating the plant frequently will help ensure even growth.
• Aim for consistently moist soil, but not sodden. You should water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. However, be careful to avoid overwatering, which leads to root rot. Adjust the watering based on the season and temperature. That is, water less in winter and more in summer. Emptying any water that collects in the saucer after watering will help to prevent root rot.
• Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
• Moderate humidity is preferred, though this can be a challenge to manage indoors. As long as the plant is growing in a good temperature (10-25°C), the soil is moist, and it is away from drafty windows or heating vents it will grow fine.
• Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Stop fertilizing in autumn and winter.
• Repot every 2-3 years into a larger pot with fresh potting mix.
• Monitor for pests like aphids, mealybugs, and fungal diseases, and treat accordingly.
• Wipe dust off leaves regularly and remove dead foliage.

By following these guidelines, you can keep your indoor Tractor Seat Plant happy and thriving!

Tractor Seat Plant General Information

This series of articles answers many of the frequently asked questions about Tractor Seat Plants (Ligularia reniformis), such as how fast they grow, their hardiness, and more!

Are Ligularia and Tractor Seat Plants Frost Tender?

Ligularia and Tractor Seat Plants can tolerate a very light frost only once they are established. However, the exact level of frost tolerance will vary depending on the species or cultivar. Some Ligularia species are more frost tolerant than others. For example, Ligularia dentata can tolerate temperatures down to -10 degrees Celsius for short periods, while other Ligularia species, such as Ligularia reniformis can only tolerate temperatures down to -5 degrees Celsius.

Does Ligularia Spread?

Ligularia spreads through rhizomes, which are underground stems that send up new shoots. The rate of spread will vary depending on the species or cultivar, the soil type, and the growing conditions. In general, Ligularia spreads more slowly in clay or compacted soils than in sandy or well-drained soils.

Does The Tractor Seat Plant Produce Flowers?

The Tractor Seat Plant (Ligularia reniformis) produces beautiful flowers during summer and early autumn. They are usually a bright yellow colour, though some cultivars might have flowers that are orange-yellow and with reddish tones. The flowers resemble daisies, with clusters of small, ray-like florets surrounding a central disc. They are fairly small at about 50mm wide, but are borne as large clusters.

What Are The Benefits Of Growing Ligularia Reniformis Plants?

Adding Ligularia or Tractor Seat plants to your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space.
• They attract birds and bees.
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

Tractor Seat Plants are very popular with landscapers and gardeners that want a modern and tropical flair to their space. They have an amazing ability to turn a bland space into something that is both lush and colourful.

What Is The New Name For Ligularia?

The new name for Ligularia is Farfugium. This change was made in 2007, based on molecular phylogenetic studies that showed that Ligularia was not a monophyletic group. The Farfugium genus contains all the species that were previously classified as Ligularia. However, the name Ligularia is still widely used in the horticultural trade and in some scientific publications. It is likely that the name Ligularia will continue to be used for some time, even though Farfugium is the correct name.

Where Is The Tractor Seat Plant From?

The Tractor Seat Plant is native to China and Japan, and boasts bold foliage, vibrant flowers, and a surprisingly hardy nature. It is a popular choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners alike and is widely used by landscape designers. The large and glossy leaves unfurl in shades of deep green, sometimes flushed with burgundy or bronze. They add both elegance and a tropical flair wherever they are used.

Why Is Ligularia Reniformis Called The Tractor Seat Plant?

Ligularia reniformis if often nicknamed the Tractor Seat Plant due to its large, kidney-shaped leaves resembling old tractor seats. This is an herbaceous perennial that brings drama and texture to gardens and is very popular across NZ gardens.

Tractor Seat Plant Problems

Tractor Seat Plants do have issues from time to time. Therefore, it is important to understand the underlying issue(s) and have the remedies to fix the problem. The Plant Company have produced this series of articles to help you in the quest for answers to address common Tractor Seat Plant problems and diseases.

How Do I Fix A Drooping Tractor Seat Plant?

A drooping Tractor Seat Plant can be caused by various factors, so it's important to identify the issue before applying a fix. Here's some possible causes and solutions:

Check for underwatering:

• This is the most common cause of droopy leaves. Signs include dry soil, crispy leaf edges, and wilting.
• Solution: Water deeply until water runs out of the drainage holes. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly before watering again. Ensure drainage is adequate and adjust watering frequency based on temperature and season.

Rule out overwatering:

• While less common, overwatering can also cause drooping due to root rot. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a foul odour from the soil.
• Solution: Immediately remove the plant from its pot and check for root rot. Prune away any brown or mushy roots and repot in fresh, well-draining potting mix in a pot with drainage holes. Avoid overwatering in the future.

Address inadequate light:

• Tractor Seat Plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Too little light can lead to leggy growth and drooping leaves.
• Solution: Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight, avoiding direct midday sun. Rotate the plant regularly for even growth.

Consider temperature stress:

• Extreme temperatures can cause drooping. Ideally, aim for temperatures between 10-25°C.
• Solution: Relocate the plant to a location with moderate temperatures away from drafty windows or heating vents.

Check for pest or disease issues:

• Inspect for pests like aphids or mealybugs and treat them appropriately.
• Fungal diseases can also cause wilting. Treat them with a fungicide specific for the identified disease.

What Are The Common Problems With The Tractor Seat Plant?

Tractor Seat Plants (Ligularia reniformis) are generally quite low-maintenance and resistant to major problems. However, there might be a few issues that crop up:

Watering:

• Overwatering is the most common issue and results in yellowing leaves, wilting, and mushy stems. This is generally corrected by ensuring good drainage and adjusting your watering accordingly.
• Underwatering is shown by wilting leaves that eventually turn crispy. You’ll want to increase watering, but without overcorrecting for it.

Lighting:

• Too much shade leads to slower growth, smaller leaves, and a "leggy" appearance. Aim for 2-3 hours of direct sun or 6 hours of dappled light per day. While some tolerance exists to full sun, harsh afternoon sun can cause leaf burn or leaf bronzing due to the cells being damaged by the extreme light.

Nutrients:

• Nutrient deficiency is shown by yellowing or unevenly coloured leaves. This is easily corrected with a foliar fertiliser and a balanced fertilizer according to the label instructions.

Pests and diseases:

• Slugs and snails enjoy the large leaves but are easily controlled with slug and snail bait.

Fungal diseases:

• Fungal issues are rare, but can occur in overly damp conditions such as through over-watering (particularly when cold) and poor air circulation. Improving the drainage and air-flow are key. A copper fungicide can give immediate relief from the issue.

Winter damage:

• Leaves may die back in cold climates, but the plant usually recovers in spring. Consider winter protection in frost areas.

Early detection and intervention are key for managing any problems these plants may encounter. Ensuring proper watering, drainage, light conditions, and nutrient levels are essential for preventing most issues.

What Are The Common Tractor Seat Plant Pests?

Tractor Seat Plants (Ligularia reniformis) are generally quite resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can encounter issues from time to time:

Slugs and snails

• They will chew holes in the leaves and are easily controlled either by removing them or using slug and snail bait.

Aphids

• These tiny, sap-sucking insects gather on the undersides of leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and yellowing. They are easily treated with a general insecticide.

Mealybugs

• These white, cottony insects cluster on stems and leaves, feeding on plant sap and leaving sticky honeydew behind. They are easily treated with a general insecticide but be sure it covers mealy bug on the label.

Thrips

• These tiny, winged insects feed on plant sap, causing leaves to become distorted and silvery in appearance. They are easily treated with a general insecticide.

Tractor Seat Plant Propagation

Propagating Tractor Seat Plants is a relatively straightforward process when you have the right advice. They are easily rooted, and our articles give you the best chance of doing this successfully and efficiently.

How Do You Propagate The Tractor Seat Plant?

You can propagate Tractor Seat Plants (Ligularia reniformis) using division, which is undertaken in spring when the plant is actively growing.

• Remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the soil around the roots.
• Identify natural divisions in the root ball where you can separate the plant into smaller sections.
• Use a sharp, clean knife to carefully cut through the roots, separating the sections into individual plants.
• Repot each division in a well-draining potting mix, and keep the soil moist but not sodden until new growth appears.

Tractor Seat Plant Trimming

The Plant Company have produced this series of articles to provide advice for trimming Tractor Seat Plants so you can manicure your plants with confidence and success.

How Do I Prune My Tractor Seat Plant?

Spring is generally the time you would consider trimming your Tractor Seat Plant (also known as Ligularia reniformis or Farfugium japonicum). At this time, you will remove old, damaged, or dead leaves to make way for new, healthy growth. Remove those leaves at ground level using sharp, clean secateurs. This may seem drastic, but it encourages fresh, vibrant foliage. During the rest of the year, you may want to trim off unsightly leaves or the spent flower stalk. Again, cut off at ground level but ensure the plant still has foliage to grow and sprout new leaves.