Ah, the lengthening days and the gentle warmth! This is our signal to break our winter dormancy. My metabolism quickens in response to the increased light. This is the prime time for you to repot me if my roots are feeling crowded. Please choose a pot only one size larger with excellent drainage; I despise wet feet. Begin a regular feeding schedule with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks to support my ambitious growth plans for the coming season. Water me when the top inch of my soil feels dry to your touch.
This is my time to shine! I will be covered in my joyful blossoms, but this spectacular show requires significant energy. Consistent watering is absolutely critical now. I may need a drink daily, or even twice daily during extreme heat, as I am quick to wilt. Please continue my bi-weekly feeding, but consider switching to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus (the middle number) to encourage continuous flowering. While I love bright light, protect me from the harsh, direct afternoon sun which can scorch my delicate leaves and flowers. A spot with bright, indirect light is my paradise.
As the light softens and the temperatures begin to drop, I naturally start to slow my growth. You should too. Gradually reduce the frequency of your fertilization, and then stop entirely by mid-autumn. This allows me to harden off and prepares me for the lower light conditions ahead. Water me less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings, but never to the point where I become limp. This is also an excellent time to give me a gentle pruning. Trim back any leggy growth to help me maintain a compact, bushy shape through the winter.
I am not dead, merely resting. My growth has all but halted. The most important thing now is light; place me in the brightest spot you can, as the sun is weak. I require much less water now. Overwatering is your greatest enemy during this season and will surely lead to root rot, from which I may not recover. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out thoroughly before giving me a modest drink with tepid water. Keep me away from cold drafts and heating vents, as both cause severe stress. Hold all fertilizer; I cannot use it now and it will only harm my roots.
