| Description: |
Those commonly grown are somewhat woody perennials with round leaves on short stalks, and bright flowers in big clusters produced from the upper parts of the stem. Other species are annuals or may have a striking succulent form. |
| Environment: |
Suitable for the home or a greenhouse |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in full 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: |
Drench the soil and let it become moderately dry between waterings. If you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed weekly with water soluble fertilizer diluted by half. An alternative is a granular slow release fertilizer if applied annually in the early spring. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to aphids and whitefly. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Propagation: |
Seeds/ stem cuttings
in the spring through summer.
It is best to propagate any type of cuttings or seeds in a mixture of moist peat and perlite. Cover the pot and plant with a plastic bag secured by a rubber band to prevent the moisture from escaping. Place in indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light. Repot in its regular mix after it has been growing for a while.
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| Gardening Tips & Care: |
Plant cuttings in the spring and discard the old plant. Provide good ventilation and keep it a little pot bound. Remove dead flowers and pinch back. Do not mist the leaves of this plant.
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