From our perspective, the container you choose is our entire world. It must be a stable and comfortable home. We require a pot with excellent drainage; waterlogged roots are our greatest enemy and will lead to fatal rot. Please ensure there are ample drainage holes. A container at least 12-18 inches in both depth and width is ideal. This provides sufficient space for our root system to establish itself, access nutrients, and anchor us securely, preventing us from becoming top-heavy and tipping over. Material matters too; terracotta is breathable and helps soil dry evenly, while heavier materials like concrete or ceramic offer stability against strong winds on exposed balconies.
We cannot thrive in heavy, compacted garden soil. We desire a potting mix that is rich, well-draining, yet moisture-retentive. A high-quality commercial potting soil amended with compost for fertility and perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage creates the perfect environment for our roots. A slightly alkaline to neutral pH is preferred. Most importantly, this medium allows our roots to breathe, absorb water without drowning, and easily spread to gather the nutrients we need to produce our beautiful, enduring flowers and lush foliage.
Our lighting needs are specific. While we are often labeled as shade plants, we perform best on a patio or balcony that offers dappled sunlight or partial shade. Morning sun is particularly beneficial, helping to dry dew from our leaves and encouraging strong growth. However, we need protection from the intense, hot afternoon sun common in many US regions, which can scorch our leaves and cause undue stress. A spot with bright, indirect light for most of the day is perfect. Also, consider shelter from strong winds, which can damage our flowers and leaves.
Our watering needs change with the seasons. In our active growth periods (fall and spring), we prefer consistently moist soil. Check the top inch of our soil; if it feels dry, it's time for a deep, thorough watering until it runs freely from the drainage holes. In the heat of summer, we may need more frequent watering, but always check the soil first to avoid overwatering. In winter, we require much less. Feed us with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as we begin to flower and again in early fall to support root development. This gives us the strength to bloom profusely.
We are perennial beings, meaning we expect to return year after year. While we are cold-hardy in the ground, our roots in containers are more vulnerable to freezing. In USDA zones 6 and below, our potted home will need winter protection. You can move us to a sheltered location like an unheated garage, wrap the pot in burlap, or sink the entire container into a garden bed for insulation. After our winter/spring bloom, you may remove old, damaged leaves to make way for new growth and improve air circulation, which helps keep us healthy and showcases our flowers.
