From my perspective, I am a sun-worshipper. My very essence is designed to bask in full, glorious sunlight for at least six to eight hours daily. This abundant light is my primary energy source, fueling the vibrant dance of my petals. Please place me where I can see the sun's entire journey across the sky. While I am surprisingly tolerant of less-than-ideal soil, I am utterly intolerant of being cold and wet. I thrive in warmth. If the temperatures dip towards freezing, my growth will stall, and my roots may suffer greatly. Think of me as a solar-powered organism; my needs are simple but non-negotiable in this regard.
My watering needs are straightforward once you understand my nature. I have developed a moderate drought tolerance. I prefer a deep, thorough watering that reaches my entire root system, followed by a period where the top layer of my soil is allowed to dry out. Please test the soil with your finger; if the top inch feels dry, it is time for a drink. Overwatering is a far greater threat to me than a brief period of thirst. Soggy, waterlogged soil is my enemy, as it suffocates my roots and invites rot. In the peak of summer, I will naturally require more frequent hydration, but the principle remains: deep drink, then dry.
I am not a greedy plant. I do not demand constant feeding to perform. A single, balanced meal at the beginning of my main growing season is often enough to see me through a spectacular bloom period. A light, slow-release fertilizer or a diluted liquid feed applied as you notice new growth emerging in spring will provide all the sustenance I need. Over-fertilizing will only encourage me to produce an excess of foliage at the expense of my beautiful flowers. My low-maintenance nature extends to my diet; I am built to flourish without much extra input.
To keep me looking my best and flowering profusely, a simple grooming practice is all I ask for. This process is known to you as "deadheading," but to me, it is a simple signal. By gently removing my spent flower heads, you are telling my biological system that its attempt to produce seeds has failed. In response, I will redirect my energy into creating new blossoms to try again. You can also give me a light overall trim if my form becomes a bit leggy; this encourages me to grow back bushier and more compact. It is a small effort for you that results in a magnificent display for me.
