Rue (plantas de rudas)

Caring for a rue plant (Ruta graveolens) is straightforward. Here are some essential care instructions:

1. Light: Rue prefers full sun, so place it in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
2. Soil: Use well-draining soil. A mix of potting soil with sand or perlite works well.
3. Water: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
4. Fertilization: Feed with a balanced fertilizer in the growing season (spring and summer), but avoid over-fertilizing as rue thrives in poorer soils.
5. Pruning: Regularly prune to encourage bushiness and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
6. Temperature: Rue is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it prefers cooler conditions (around 60°F to 75°F or 15°C to 24°C).
7. Pests: Watch for aphids and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
8. Harvesting: If using rue for culinary or medicinal purposes, harvest leaves sparingly to allow the plant to grow back.