| Description: |
Upright plants, one to almost four feet (120cm) tall depending on variety, have an almost continuous set of flat bloom clusters at the tips of the branches. All colors except yellows are now available. |
| Environment: |
Suitable for the home or a greenhouse |
| Growing Ease: |
Requires a little extra care |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in bright indirect sunlight coming from the South/West |
| Soil Type: |
A GOOD general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take:
1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1 part moist peat or humus (leaf mold) and a light dusting of lime.
Always use a pot with a hole.
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| Watering: |
Keep the soil evenly moist and if you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed every two weeks while in growth with a water soluble fertilizer. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to mites. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Gardening Tips & Care: |
Likes to be pot bound. Mist occasionally with warm water (lime free to avoid leaf staining). Pinch tips occasionally for bushy appearance. Keep cool in the winter. Place pebbles or gravel in the drainage dish to hold water and increase the humidity, make sure the pot is sitting on the gravel and not in the water.
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