It isn’t always easy to match gerbera daisies’ ideal cultural conditions, but growing them in pots grants us the flexibility to control certain conditions. The right temperature, moisture, soil type, and sun exposure become more achievable with the portability of containers. Gardening expert Katherine Rowe explores how to provide the best potted environment for the delightful, bouncy blooms. Gerbera daisies delight nursery shelves and pop up in grocery stores as temperatures warm in spring. Their broad, ray petals in saturated pigments from soft pink to sunny yellow to bright red bring unmatched, clear color. It’s no wonder they’re among the most popular cut flowers, spreading bouquets of cheer with their symmetrical daisy flowers. The gerbera daisies we bring home as small, potted specimens hail from the ideal environments of controlled greenhouses. They’re near perfection, with lush, deep green leaves and multiple blooms on sturdy stems. With the right cultural conditions (and some luck), they’ll stay that way as we repot them at home to grow all season and beyond. Gerbera jamesonii is native to South Africa, where it experiences sunny, mild conditions at the sweet spot of frost-free winters and coolish summers. The cheerful blooms require specific conditions for sustenance, whether growing the gerbera daisies in pots as annuals or year-round. Select the Container and Potting Mix To accommodate extensive root growth, opt for a container at least 12 inches deep and two inches wider than the nursery pot. Use a larger pot if creating a combination arrangement to allow space for airflow around the daisy. The pot should have ample drainage holes for water to flow through freely. Clay pots are beneficial for root health, though they dry out more quickly than other materials like plastic. The pot material factors into watering frequency. An organically rich, well-draining potting mix gives potted gerberas the best foundation. Start with a quality mix formulated for containerized growing. These provide nutrients, aeration, and moisture retention with a sterile base. To increase coarseness for improved aeration and drainage, amend with a small amount of perlite or sand. The Right Temperatures The trickiest growing requirement for many of us to meet is the ideal temperature range. The daisies are tender perennials in USDA zones 8-11 and grow as annuals elsewhere. Gerberas need a mild 60-70°F (16-21°C) to thrive. They tolerate brief dips or spikes in either direction, but not drastically and not for sustained periods. They’re cold-sensitive and also wither in high heat. They withstand brief drops as low as 30°F (-1°C), but won’t survive with lengthy spells below freezing. For those of us in southern climates, it’s not necessarily the cold but the heat that hinders the daisies. Often grown as spring annuals, they yellow and peter out as summer approaches. The advantage of growing gerbera daisies in pots is portability. Repositioning and moving the containers let us match the ideal temperatures as closely as possible. We can move them to spots with afternoon shade to protect them from intense summer rays. In winter, they travel to protected spaces to ward off cold exposure. The Best Light While the daisies don’t love high heat, they do need full sun. Six or more hours of daily sunlight is ideal. Site the pots where they’ll receive generous morning sun and dappled light in the afternoon. Direct mid- and late-day summer sun can burn the leaves and petals in warm climates. Situate the Crown With the proper container, potting media, and the right siting, it’s time to pot up the showy annual (or tender perennial). When transplanting from the nursery pot to the larger container, install the crown a little high. Planting slightly above soil level allows for settling while protecting the crown from excess moisture. Aim for the same height as the crown was in the nursery pot. Planting just above the surface improves air circulation around stems and keeps them from overly humid conditions, like sitting in moist soils. Crown and stem rot are fungal problems for gerberas planted too deeply. A sunken crown also impedes growth and flowering. Good air circulation is key for gerbera daisies in pots to minimize diseases. In combination plantings, maintain space around the daisy stems. Prune other specimens if they encroach as a means to prevent humidity around the crown and leaves. Situate pots with airflow between walls, structures, and other containers. How to Water Gerbera daisies in pots do best with regular moisture, with slight drying between sessions. Water deeply when the potting media feels dry an inch below the surface. Frequency is usually once a week or two, depending on the growing environment. Let water flow through the drainage holes for full saturation. If using a saucer to collect runoff, empty it shortly after watering to prevent soggy soils. Err on the dry side rather than overwatering, as root rot from overwatering is a common cause of decline. In oversaturated soils, fungal rot renders the roots unable to uptake water and nutrients to support upper growth and flowering. To stave off other fungal problems like powdery mildew, anthracnose, and botrytis, avoid wetting the foliage unnecessarily during watering sessions. Give leaves a bath or a dusting on occasion to get rid of pest-attracting conditions, but limit damp situations. Water early in the day to best support plant processes and also prevent prolonged moisture. Fertilizing A boost in nutrition helps gerbera daisies in pots realize their full blooming potential. Organic liquid feeds for blooming plants require once-a-month applications, or every two weeks at ½ dilution. Slow-release granular options distribute nutrients gradually over a couple of months. Fertilize in the active growing seasons of spring and summer, stopping in late summer as growth slows and plants prepare to overwinter. Avoid fertilizing in high heat situations, too, as the daisies try to weather them. Fertilizing stressed plants only adds to the situation by prompting new growth with few reserves. If you notice yellowing leaves between the veins, iron or manganese deficiency may be the cause. Opt for a fertilizer that contains these to restore the elements. Pruning and Maintenance A thriving daisy doesn’t require much maintenance other than regular water and fertilizing. Deadhead faded flowers to promote new blooms. Clip off yellowing leaves as they crop up to prevent disease. The potted specimens benefit from repotting each year if carried over. The roots grow quickly and need a bigger pot or a trim and refreshed potting mix. If you’re at the repotting point, lucky you – you have skillfully maintained the daisy within its cultural threshold. The best time to repot gerbera daisies is in the spring before flowering. The daisies need repotting when roots pop out of the drainage holes or on the surface. They may show wilting leaves and stems as soil mass decreases, and soil dries out more quickly as the roots run out of room. Slowed new growth and a lack of flowers are other indicators to repot. Another reason to repot is to refresh the soil’s nutrition. Potting mixes break down with regular watering and root absorption. They begin to lack nutrients, aeration, and oxygenation necessary for the plant’s health. Overwintering To protect the tender species from winter chill, plan to move them indoors or to a protected area before temperatures are consistently in the low 40s (~4°C). To transition them in the fall: Stop fertilizing by late summer Move them to a sheltered location like a garage, basement, or cold frame with cool temperatures (around 45-50°F or 7-10°C) and some natural light Or, move them indoors to grow as houseplants in a bright spot out of direct sunlight, like an east-facing window or filtered, indirect light from southern or western exposures. Reduce watering, waiting until soil dries about two inches below the surface for houseplants and a few for those in cold storage (don’t allow roots to dry out completely, but once a month is usually sufficient) Move the daisies outside after spring’s final frost and as temperatures rise to the 50s (10°C) and above Resume regular watering, fertilizing, and deadheading to enjoy another season of the happy blooms
Read More
Zinnias are a wonderful way to add quick and bold color to your summer garden. 'California Giants' do it in grand style. Join gardening expert Melissa Strauss to discuss growing and caring for your zinnias. Zinnias are vibrant, low-maintenance flowers that we love for their bold, long-lasting flowers and easy-going nature. These members of the daisy family love warm, summer weather. A wide range of forms and colors makes them perfect for any sunny space in the garden. From small single cultivars to double-petaled ‘California Giants’ zinnias, these cheerful flowers are always charming. Their long, continuous blooming season lasts from early summer until frost. Their high impact in the garden, paired with their strong appeal to pollinators, makes these zinnias a win in my book! What Is It? ‘California Giants’ zinnias are an impressive heirloom known for their large, dahlia-form blooms in vibrant colors. They make an excellent addition to the cutting garden, with long-lasting flowers on tall, strong stems. Their beauty, coupled with their ease of care, makes these a fantastic addition to cutting gardens, containers, and flowerbeds. Characteristics ‘California Giants’ is a large, flowering variety of zinnia characterized by its bold, vibrant flowers. They often reach five inches in diameter, making them one of the largest cultivars. The substantial blooms are usually semi-double to fully double, with a dahlia-like form. The blooms in shades of red, orange, pink, white, purple, and yellow are attractive to pollinators. Butterflies, in particular, love to drink nectar from zinnias. Their wide, often open flowers are easily accessible to pollinators. The plants are upright and branching, and they branch more when you cut and deadhead the flowers. They’re great for cutting gardens and the back of borders. These begin blooming in late spring to early summer, depending on your climate. With proper care, they will continue to produce flowers right up until your first frost. Native Area Zinnia elegans is native to Mexico and parts of Central and North America. They typically grow wild in warm, arid, and semi-arid regions. ‘California Giants’ zinnia is a cultivated strain that is well-suited to a wide range of climates. Planting The best time to plant your ‘California Giants’ zinnias is in the spring, as soon as the weather is warm enough. While you can start them indoors early, they are easiest to sow directly in the garden. These are a large type of zinnia, and they need some space to spread out. Keep this in mind when deciding on a location. Ideally, your plants will grow large and shrubby, producing an abundance of flowers.
Read More
Fuchsias are abundant in summer. You’ll see them cascading over hanging baskets, filling raised beds, and decorating front porches. These shade lovers excel in home gardens, and some overwinter in mild regions! Learn how to plant, grow, and care for fuchsias alongside fuchsia lover Jerad Bryant. Fuchsias fill the air with their purple, pink, red, white, and multi-color blooms! They’re exceptional. Some consider fuchsias old-fashioned, but I disagree. They’re essential in shady shrub gardens. Some fuchsias are hardy perennials, while most of the garden hybrids are frost-tender perennials. They thrive outdoors in spring, summer, and fall. Frost-tender perennials die at the first frost, while the hardy fuchsias enter dormancy for the winter. Whether you’re filling hanging baskets or adding color to your borders, fuchsia plants are the right pick. Give them good soil, regular moisture, and plenty of shade—they’ll reward you with dozens of pink-purple blooms! What Are Fuchsias? Fuchsias are high-performing tender shrubs with ample leaves, blooms, and stems. Although they require more nutrients and moisture than most garden plants, their unique-shaped flowers are worth the extra care! Native Area Fuchsia species originate from New Zealand, South and Central America, and Mexico. They tend to be understory plants that thrive beneath taller trees and shrubs. The shade the canopy provides is perfect for them, as they prefer partially shady or dappled shade conditions. Most hardy fuchsias are varieties of the species Fuchsia magellanica, while the tender hybrids at nurseries and garden centers involve complex crosses of many different species. Their characteristics vary depending on their parentage. Characteristics Fuchsias tend to have arching stems, ovate leaves, and folded flowers. The flowers have a collar-like structure that folds around the inner floral parts. They sort of look like spinning tops! Some varieties have giant folds, while others have tight ones. Fuchsias grow differently depending on their type. Some are upright, others are arching, and a few grow along the soil like a ground cover. Which is best for your garden depends on the setup. Plant upright and arching types in the ground, and place drooping and prostrate ones in containers so they spill over the edges. Depending on the species, these shrubs are frost-tender or frost-hardy. Choose tender types for containers and hardy ones for in the ground. Frost-tender varieties overwinter in hardiness zones 10 through 12, and hardy types overwinter in zones 5 through 10. Planting You must find hybrid fuchsias at stores and garden centers, as they don’t sprout true to seed. Seedlings grow differently from their parents, with new leaf shapes, bloom colors, and petal formations. Try growing fuchsias from seeds if you’d like to experiment with them, or find your favorite cultivar at the store or online.
Read More
Cactus zinnias are large, colorful, and easy to grow! These flamboyant flowers make an excellent addition to the cutting garden and flower beds. Join gardening expert Melissa Strauss to learn about growing and caring for these exciting, long-blooming plants. In an average summer season, I plant more zinnia seeds than any others by at least double. They are so easy to grow. And they provide a ton of color and personality to my flower beds and summer cutting garden. Of all the many varieties you can grow, cactus zinnias are some of the most colorful and flamboyant flowers around. Zinnias come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and petal formations. Varieties span from the tiny but spunky ‘Thumbellina’ to the grand ‘Benary’s Giant.’ I could plant a whole bed of zinnias and never get tired of them. The best thing about these plants is the amount of color and sheer volume of flowers they produce. One plant can produce dozens of flowers, even the larger cultivars! When it comes to big, flashy flowers, cactus zinnias are among the top contenders. What Is It? Cactus zinnias are a distinctive type of zinnia, characterized by their large and unique flowers. They’re sturdy plants with oversized blooms that come in a variety of bold, noteworthy shades. Horticulturists have developed these stunning cultivars from the Zinnia elegans species for their uncommonly beautiful form. Characteristics Cactus zinnias are large plants growing up to 40 inches tall. While they are not the tallest variety, they come reasonably close. They bloom from early summer until frost, producing a large number of flowers throughout that time. The plants aren’t the only thing that is larger than average. Cactus zinnia flowers are among the largest of the species. The blooms span four to six inches across and come in a range of colors, including pink, white, red, orange, yellow, and purple. The most noteworthy characteristic of this variety is the long, narrow, fringe-like petals. They aren’t named cactus for any relationship to an actual cactus. Instead, they’re named such because of how closely they resemble cactus-form dahlias. These are fast growers, like most zinnias, and they don’t take long to bloom. About two months after planting, you should start to see developing buds. With proper care, they will bloom continuously. They have sturdy stems that are great for cutting. Native Area Cactus zinnias are hybrids, so this particular form is not naturally occurring. However, the species Z. elegans is native to Central and southern North America, particularly Mexico. They typically favor semi-arid climates. Planting Spring is the best time to start your cactus zinnias. These annuals love warm weather and are easy to sow in your garden beds directly. Although they offer a wider variety, these aren’t the best choice for container gardens, but they will grow well in larger raised beds. Remember to leave ample space when planting to allow for spreading out. With proper tending, they can grow large and shrubby. Since the larger plants produce the most flowers, this is the desirable state.
Read More
Desert zinnias are a wonderful species, and unlike their more popular cousin, they are perennials in many regions. Join gardening expert Melissa Strauss to learn about growing these drought-tolerant, low-maintenance flowers this summer. I am enormously fond of zinnias in all their forms. They are some of the most dependable, sturdy, and colorful plants in the garden. There are so many things to love about zinnias, from their flowers to their drought-tolerance and their exceptionally long bloom time. If you care for your zinnias properly, they will bring color to the garden all summer and into the fall. They also attract and feed beneficial insects with their nectar and pollen-rich flowers. You’re probably most accustomed to the species known as Zinnia elegans. These are the tall, bold, and bright annuals that many gardeners plant every summer. There are other great species to explore, though, and here we will discuss Zinnia acerosa, or desert zinnia. What Is It? Zinnia acerosa, which goes by the common name desert zinnia, is a delightfully drought- and heat-tolerant species of the much-loved Zinnia genus. This smaller, shrubbier species has a reputation for being low-maintenance, pest- and disease-resistant, and easy to care for. Characteristics Desert zinnias are low-growing, shrubby plants with a mounding, spreading habit. They reach a height between six and 12 inches tall and are one to two times as wide. They have small, grey-green leaves that are narrow but good at conserving water. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with cream-colored petals and yellow centers. As they age, the petals take on more yellow tones, finally maturing to a butter yellow. They bloom prolifically and for an extended period from spring through fall. In mild climates, desert zinnias are evergreen, retaining their foliage throughout the year. In the cooler reaches of its range, it acts as a perennial. You can also grow these as an annual in cooler climates that are outside their perennial range. Native Area Desert zinnias are native to the desert and grassland regions of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Texas, and parts of Northern Mexico. It tends to show up in arid, rocky landscapes, including deserts, and prefers areas with sandy, alkaline soil. Planting You can grow desert zinnias in the ground or in containers. The species is well-suited to both. If you have heavy, dense soil, growing them in containers or raised beds may be more effective for drainage reasons. Take into account their growth habit, which is characterized by a shrubby and low-growing nature. They have a wider spread, so make sure to give them room to stretch out.
Read More
Coneflowers are a beautiful addition to the garden and are excellent for attracting wildlife. Add some PowWow 'Wild Berry' coneflowers to your garden for an extra bright pop of purple that lasts all summer! Gardening expert Melissa Strauss goes over how to grow and care for this fun hybrid. Coneflowers, or Echinacea, are sturdy and beautiful perennials with daisy-like flowers. Their spiky cones provide an ample supply of nectar for pollinators, and their seed heads make excellent food for overwintering birds and other small animals. Their attractive flowers, paired with their long blooming season and pollinator appeal, make these a staple for many gardeners. While the most common color for these flowers is purple, some cultivars bloom in shades of yellow, pink, white, and orange. What Is PowWow® ‘Wild Berry’ Coneflower? PowWow® ‘Wild Berry’ is a hybrid coneflower known for its extra intense color, compact size, and reliable blooming habit. Developed by PanAm Seed Co., this variety is a hybrid, but it’s bred from the Echinacea purpurea species. It’s still considered a hybrid, as it has been bred for specific traits, such as vivid color and vigorous growth. Characteristics PowWow® ‘Wild Berry’ is a flowering perennial with vibrant magenta flowers that are brighter and more saturated than those of its parent species, Echinacea purpurea. The flowers are three to four inches across and begin blooming in early summer in most climates, but they may start to bloom earlier in warm climates. The lovely purple petals surround a spiky cone at the center. The cone of this cultivar is bold, coppery-orange. It’s shorter than most standard varieties, reaching a height of around 20 inches, making it a great border option. It also works well in containers. The foliage is standard for the genus. Lance-shaped leaves are deep green with a rough texture. The leaves are evenly spaced along strong, slender stems. They make fabulous cut flowers. When it comes to attracting pollinators, these will do the job splendidly. Native Area Echinacea purpurea, the parent species, is native to most of the Eastern and Central United States, and north into Canada. It grows in meadows, prairies, and open wooded areas. It’s a versatile and adaptable plant that can grow in most soil types and climates. Planting Because this variety is compact, it makes a great container plant. It’s also lovely in borders or mixed beds, and in pollinator gardens. You can plant seedlings in spring or fall. Wait until after the last frost in spring, or plant at least six weeks before the first frost in fall.
Read More
Superbena® are trailing, mounding, and cascading hybrid plants. Their versatility and variety make them excellent candidates for large containers, borders, and tree wells. Give them the care they need, and they’ll fill your garden with endless blooms from spring through fall. Relatively new to the garden market, Superbenas® bloom more than most other annual bedding plants. They fill the yard with white, purple, red, orange, pink, and multicolor blossoms in tight clusters. New types come out every few years that are vigorous, colorful, and hardy. These varieties are hybrids bred for their mounding, spreading habit, and prolific blooms. They’ll fit perfectly between your sunflowers, zinnias, and petunias. Tuck them in alongside other plants, or give them their own space and see how large they can grow. No matter which variety you choose, you’ll enjoy these plants’ easygoing habits and radiant, eye-catching flower clusters. Give them the care they need, and they’ll thrive throughout the warm months. What Is It? Unlike most plant cultivars and varieties, these hybrids result from many different crosses between various species. Their diverse parental lineage makes them unique, and it gives them the attractive qualities we enjoy in the garden. Origin Superbena® lacks a native area because it’s the product of many controlled crosses between various species. Breeders transferred pollen from one species to another. They then grew the resulting seeds into seedlings that were unique, new specimens. With many crosses over many years, the resulting specimens look quite different from their parents. Though commonly referred to as verbenas, these hybrids, alongside other verbenas, were recently reclassified from the genus Verbena to Glandularia. Most hybrid verbenas result from crosses between these four species: Glandularia peruviana Glandularia phlogiflora Glandularia platensis Glandularia tweedieana Superbena® cultivars are licensed by the Proven Winners® ornamental plant company—they control the sale and distribution of the many different varieties. As new types come out, old ones become difficult to find. If you see the type you like, grab it! You may not be able to find it again. Characteristics With both mounding and trailing habits, these verbenas are variable in the way they grow. They’ll mound and spread along the ground like a ground cover, or they’ll spill over the edges of containers and raised beds. Their varied growth habits allow them to fit into many different spaces in the garden, whether they’re open, elevated, or narrow. Superbena® grow toothed leaves that resemble catnip foliage. They’re bright green, providing a rich backdrop for the alluring blooms. They sprout from green stems that stay shorter than a foot tall. When trailing from baskets, the stems may reach two feet long with blooms and leaves along them. Though most gardeners use these hybrids as annual bedding plants, they’re perennials in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11. They’re frost-tender, dying back as cold temperatures arrive in autumn and winter. Planting You can’t grow Superbena® from seeds, as they’re typically sold to licensed wholesale growers and distributors. Nurseries grow seeds into seedlings, or “plugs,” which they transplant into white containers and sell to big-box garden centers. Look for the Proven Winners® white pots at your local plant store to find your favorite.
Read More
Big, beautiful, and bountiful, 'Benary's Giant' zinnias are the gold standard for these low-maintenance plants. Cut flower gardener Melissa Strauss talks about growing these fabulous, mighty bloomers in your garden this season. As a cut flower gardener, zinnias are one of my favorite summer annuals to grow in the cutting garden and anywhere else. These big, bold, bright blooms are so cheerful and prolific that if you take good care of them, they will continue to bloom right up until the first frost kills them off. Zinnias aren’t just great as ornamentals. They are also a wonderful food source for all kinds of pollinators. There are few spots in the yard where I see as many butterflies as I do in my zinnia patches. Every year, I plant more, and now these beauties pop up all over the place, where I sow them, as well as where they sow themselves. Here’s how to add an extra unique blend of zinnias to your garden with ‘Benary’s Giant’ seeds! What Is ‘Benary’s Giant’ Zinnia? ‘Benary’s Giant’ zinnias are all the things that are wonderful about the Zinnia genus. Long, strong stems, big, bold, colorful flowers, and an excellent cut-and-come-again habit. As a cut flower gardener, these are at the top of my list for long-lasting and beautiful summer bouquets. I’m not the only one who feels this way about them, as the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers awarded them as their first-ever Cut Flower of the Year in 1999. Characteristics Zinnias are wonderful, sturdy, long-flowering annuals that cheer up the garden and the dining room table, too! Their slender but stiff stems make them great for cutting. Be careful when you snip, though; those stems are hollow and crush easily. The stems and leaves are slightly fuzzy, giving them a sandpaper texture. ‘Benary’s Giant’ zinnias are some of the most magnificent around, primarily because of their large, bold blooms. These flowers are extra large, at up to six inches in diameter. They’re also densely petaled and come in a wide variety of shades. You’ll love how well these hold up outdoors. They tolerate wind and rain better than most, and they stay beautiful throughout the hot months. Like all zinnias, these are pollinator magnets; bumblebees and butterflies are especially huge fans. Native Area Zinnias are native to a wide range that spans from the Midwestern United States to South America. You’ll find the greatest diversity of the plants in Mexico where they occur mainly in dry grasslands and scrub areas. They’re cultivated all over the world and naturalized in several countries. Zinnia elegans, the species that holds the ‘Benarys Giant’ cultivar, is native to Mexico, Central, and South America. Planting Zinnias are fast growers that tolerate heat well. They take about two months to grow from seed to bloom, and you can succession sow them beginning around March in warm climates. You can continue to sow seeds well into the summer months, and have tons of these blooming in the fall.
Read More
Dianthus, or pinks, are lovely, fragrant flowers that create color and add charm to any garden space. They're easy to care for and have edible flowers as well! Join gardening expert Melissa Strauss to talk about growing these sweet flowering plants in your garden. Plants in the Dianthus genus include those commonly called carnations, Sweet Williams, and pink carnations. They have a long history of human cultivation. Going back more than 2,000 years, we see them in Ancient Greece and Rome. Their name, dianthus, comes from the Greek words ‘Dios’ and ‘anthos,’ which translates to ‘flower of God.’ Such an illustrious moniker would only be awarded to a special plant. The delightfully long-lasting, sturdy, and fragrant flowers were often made into flower crowns, used as symbols of the suffering of Jesus and Mary. They were also worn by athletes in ceremonies of award and recognition. As they spread around the world, these enduring flowers took on more and different types of symbolism. They were popular in the Victorian Era in different colors to express various emotions. White was particularly popular for Mother’s Day. They’re even thought to be William Shakespeare’s favorite flower. These are wonderful flowers and surprisingly easy to grow in your own backyard! The variety ‘Firewitch’ dianthus has particularly vibrant purple blooms. Here’s how to grow them! What Is ‘Firewitch’ Dianthus? ‘Firewitch’ is a perfectly petite dianthus cultivar that, among other uses, makes a stunning ground cover. It holds the title of 2006 Plant of the Year from the Perennial Plant Association, and it’s not difficult to see why. The color combination in this plant’s flowers and foliage is striking and unique. It certainly adds to their appeal and stokes their popularity. Let’s take a look! Characteristics ‘Firewitch‘ is a foreboding name, and the plant is certainly bewitching. This lovely cultivar is compact and has the bluest foliage of any dianthus. The evergreen foliage is a pale blue-green with fine, lanceolate leaves and slender, jointed stems. The mound of foliage grows to only four to six inches tall, but spreads to nearly two feet wide. The brilliant magenta flowers, which are nearly neon, stand another few inches above the foliage for a long period in spring and summer. They also often rebloom in the fall for an added treat. ‘Firewitch’ is evergreen and makes a wonderful border for garden beds, and a perfect addition to the cottage garden. The bright pink flowers also have a spicy and sweet fragrance with a hint of warm cloves. Native Area Dianthus are generally native primarily to Europe and Asia, with a few species showing up in Africa. This particular cultivar comes from Cheddar Gorge, England. The species D. gratianopolitanus is native to this region. You’ll find them growing in open, sunny areas with good air circulation and well-drained soil. Planting As a perennial dianthus, ‘Firewitch’ is best planted in the fall, but early spring is fine, too. The cooler temperatures of these times help the plant to establish stronger, deeper roots, which leads to a nice, compact shape. They handle frost well, so there is no need to worry about frost dates in terms of foliage. However, you do want the roots to develop before the ground freezes.
Read More
Petunias are typically considered sun-loving plants, but with the right techniques, you can grow these versatile flowers in shadier spots. Gardening expert Madison Moulton shares 5 essential tips for coaxing spectacular blooms from petunias planted in less-than-ideal light conditions. When planning a shade garden, petunias probably aren’t the first flowers that come to mind. These popular summer annuals have a well-earned reputation as sun worshippers, typically recommended for the brightest spots in the garden. But what if your available planting spaces don’t offer that perfect full-sun exposure? The good news is that with some strategic adjustments to your growing approach, petunias can perform surprisingly well in partial shade. While they may not produce the same explosive growth as their sun-bathed counterparts, shade-grown petunias can still deliver impressive blooms that brighten up those challenging garden spots. Whether you’re working with a north-facing balcony, a covered porch, or a garden overshadowed by trees or buildings, these five essential tips will help your petunias thrive despite limited light. Let’s explore how to coax beautiful blooms from these versatile flowers even when growing conditions aren’t ideal. Choose the Right Petunias Not all petunias are created equal when it comes to shade tolerance. Selecting the right variety is your first and most important step toward success with shade-grown petunias. Wave petunias, while spectacular in full sun, typically struggle in shadier conditions. Their spreading habit requires significant light energy to support extensive growth and abundant flowering. Instead, look for compact varieties like Milliflora types or Multiflora petunias, which generally perform better with less light than their larger-flowered counterparts. Colors also matter more than you might expect. Lighter-colored petunias typically outperform dark purples and reds in shade situations. These lighter blooms reflect what limited light is available and remain more visible in low-light settings, creating a better visual impact, even with fewer flowers. For the most shade-tolerant options, consider some of the newer hybrid petunias specifically bred for versatility. You might also explore Supertunias®, particularly the smaller-flowered varieties, which often continue blooming with less direct sunlight than traditional types. Pick a Warm Spot While petunias can adapt to reduced light, they’re less forgiving when it comes to temperature. These heat-loving plants struggle in cool, damp conditions, making shade management more complex than simply finding a spot with less direct sun. Look for planting locations that offer protection from intense midday sun but still provide warmth and ambient light. Eastern exposures with morning sun and afternoon shade often work beautifully. Southern or western exposures that are partially shaded by high tree canopies can also provide the dappled light that petunias tolerate well without scorching summer heat. Container placement becomes even more strategic in shade situations. Consider spots near heat-reflecting surfaces like brick walls or concrete patios, which can increase ambient temperature around your petunias. These surfaces absorb heat during any sun exposure and radiate it back to nearby plants, creating a microclimate that supports better growth and flowering even with reduced direct light. If your shade is caused by buildings rather than trees, the reflected light can actually work in your favor. Light-colored walls can bounce significant light onto your petunias, effectively increasing the light they receive without direct sun exposure. Position containers to capitalize on this reflected light for improved flowering performance. Water Consistently Proper watering becomes even more critical when growing petunias in shade. Shade-grown plants typically dry out more slowly than those in full sun, but petunias still need consistent moisture to produce abundant blooms. The primary mistake gardeners make with shade-grown petunias is overwatering. Without intense sun to help dry out the soil, these areas retain moisture longer, potentially leading to root rot and fungal issues. Always check soil moisture before watering by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil. Only water when this top layer feels dry to the touch. Watering techniques matter significantly in shade situations. Focus on delivering water directly to the soil rather than overhead watering, which can leave foliage damp for extended periods. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation systems work particularly well, providing consistent moisture without creating the humid conditions that promote disease. For container-grown petunias in shade, drainage becomes especially important. Use pots with ample drainage holes and consider adding an extra layer of drainage material at the bottom of containers. A high-quality, well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for container plants helps maintain the proper moisture balance that shade-grown petunias need to thrive without becoming waterlogged. Provide Morning Sun While petunias can adapt to partial shade, providing at least some direct sunlight significantly improves their performance. If you can give your petunias those precious morning hours of sunshine, you’ll see a dramatic difference in blooming compared to plants grown in full shade. Morning sun offers multiple benefits for shade-challenged petunias. The gentle early light provides essential energy for photosynthesis without the stress of intense midday heat. These early hours also help dry dew from the foliage, reducing disease pressure that can be problematic in shadier environments. Eastern exposures often provide the ideal balance, offering direct morning light followed by cooling afternoon shade. If this isn’t possible in your garden, consider whether there are seasonal shifts in light patterns that might benefit your petunias. Some locations receive better morning light in certain months as the sun’s angle changes, allowing you to maximize the growing period. For extremely challenging light situations, consider whether temporary or portable solutions might help. Reflective surfaces can redirect available light toward your petunias, while strategic pruning of overhanging branches might create sun pockets that provide those critical morning hours of direct light. Even modest improvements in light exposure can significantly impact flowering performance. Don’t Skip Fertilizing Fertilization strategy becomes even more crucial when growing petunias in less-than-ideal light. Plants in shade naturally grow more slowly and produce fewer blooms, making proper nutrition essential for maximizing their flowering potential. Unlike their sun-loving counterparts that might thrive with standard feeding schedules, shade-grown petunias benefit from a slightly different approach. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal or slightly higher phosphorus content (the middle number in the NPK ratio) to encourage flowering rather than just foliage growth, which can become leggy in low light. For container-grown petunias in shade, consider using a diluted liquid fertilizer applied more frequently rather than stronger, less frequent applications. A half-strength solution applied every 10-14 days during active growth usually provides better results than full-strength monthly feeding. Slow-release fertilizers can also work well for shade-grown petunias, providing a steady supply of nutrients over time. Look for products specifically formulated for flowering plants, and consider supplementing with occasional liquid feedings during peak growing season to maximize bloom production. Be careful not to over-fertilize in an attempt to compensate for reduced light. This common mistake leads to lush foliage at the expense of flowers. No amount of fertilizer can replace the energy plants receive from sunlight, so focus on balanced, consistent feeding rather than increased quantities. While petunias will never perform in deep shade as well as they do in full sun, these adaptable flowers can still bring considerable color and charm to partially shaded areas. The key lies in understanding and accommodating their specific needs when grown in less light.
Read More
