Do I need to fertilize to get flowers?

A light application of balanced liquid fertilizer in early spring can help. Do not overdo it, as too much fertilizer can lead to more leaves but fewer flowers.

How long do the flowers last?

The individual flowers are small and delicate, usually lasting for a few days. The plant will continue to produce new blooms throughout the spring if conditions are right.

Ivy-leaved speedwell: not flowering, causes and fixes

Check these first

Move the plant closer to a window to increase light exposure.
Check that the plant is not in a room that stays too warm at night.

Likely causes

Insufficient Light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems look stretched out and the plant is not producing any buds.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with brighter, indirect light. If you are growing it indoors, a south or east facing window is ideal.
Lack of Seasonal Change
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks healthy and green but never develops flowers.
What to do: Ensure the plant experiences a slight drop in temperature during the night. This mimics the natural conditions that trigger flowering in the spring.

Other plants that won't flower

Find out what's wrong with your ivy-leaved speedwell

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the plant has been in the same spot for a full year without blooming, it is time to adjust its light. It is normal for the plant to rest and not bloom during the winter months.

Stopping it coming back

Provide consistent bright, indirect light throughout the growing season.

Ivy-leaved speedwell: not flowering? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your ivy-leaved speedwell and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Do I need to fertilize to get flowers?: A light application of balanced liquid fertilizer in early spring can help. Do not overdo it, as too much fertilizer can lead to more leaves but fewer flowers.
How long do the flowers last?: The individual flowers are small and delicate, usually lasting for a few days. The plant will continue to produce new blooms throughout the spring if conditions are right.

Why is my Ivy-leaved speedwell not blooming?