The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for Baby’s Tears: A Comprehensive Plant Care Manual

by Jasmine October 12, 2025

written by Jasmine October 12, 2025

Growing and Caring for Baby’s Tears

Plant Overview

Baby’s tears (Soleirolia soleirolii) is a delicate, mat-forming perennial that adds charm to indoor and outdoor spaces alike. Its tiny, round leaves resemble teardrops and create a dense, moss-like carpet.

Care Guide

Lighting:

Baby’s tears prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

Soil:

A rich, well-draining soil amended with compost or manure is ideal for baby’s tears. Ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.

Watering:

Water regularly, especially during the spring and summer. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Temperature and Humidity:

Baby’s tears thrive in warm temperatures between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit. They also appreciate high humidity levels around 75%.

Fertilization:

Fertilize with a balanced plant food every two weeks during the growing season.

Types of Baby’s Tears

Soleirolia soleirolii ‘Aurea’: Golden foliage that grows lower and spreads less.
Soleirolia soleirolii ‘Golden Queen’: Yellowish leaf margins.
Soleirolia soleirolii ‘Silver Queen’: Silver-gray foliage.
Soleirolia soleirolii ‘Variegata’: Variegated, silvery leaves with white stippling.

Pruning

To encourage new growth and improve appearance, prune baby’s tears regularly. Trim away any green stems on variegated varieties to prevent reversion to solid green.

Propagation

Baby’s tears propagate easily through division or stem cuttings.

Division:

Divide the plant using a trowel.
Separate a section with roots and soil.
Replant in fresh potting mix.

Stem Cuttings:

Cut healthy stems at least 2 inches long.
Remove the base leaves.
Plant cuttings in moist potting mix.
Cover with plastic wrap to maintain humidity.

Potting and Repotting

Baby’s tears thrive in containers and can be used as an edging plant in outdoor settings. Repot regularly as the plant grows, using a larger container with fresh potting mix.

Overwintering

If you live in a cold climate, bring baby’s tears indoors before temperatures drop below freezing. Place them in a warm, well-lit spot.

Common Pests and Diseases

Outdoors:

Baby’s tears are generally pest-free outdoors.

Indoors:

Aphids
Mealybugs
Mites
Root rot (caused by overwatering)

How to Get Baby’s Tears to Bloom

Baby’s tears typically bloom outdoors from May to July, producing tiny, creamy white flowers. To encourage blooming:

Plant in full or partial sun outdoors.
Ensure adequate water and humidity.
Avoid overwatering.

Common Problems

Wilting:

Indicates insufficient watering or pot-bound roots.

Browning Leaves:

Caused by direct sunlight or excessive watering.

Blackening Leaves and Foul-Smelling Soil:

Symptoms of root rot. Repot in fresh soil and remove any affected roots.

Troubleshooting Long-Tail Keywords:

Overwintering Baby’s Tears: Bring indoors before freezing temperatures and provide warmth and light.
Pruning Baby’s Tears: Trim to enhance appearance, prevent green reversion, and control growth.
Difference Between Baby’s Tears and Irish Moss: Baby’s tears have teardrop-shaped leaves, while Irish moss has fine, thread-like foliage.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.