![]() ![]() After several seasons, the stems of the pentas may become so woody it’s worth replacing them. Prune the plants to six inches in January, when bloom production is at its lowest. In frost-free growing zones, pentas will exhibit their shrubby nature. Keep indoor plants vigorous by adding a supplementary light source, and by increasing the humidity with a gravel-and-water filled tray. ![]() A cool place with bright light is an ideal spot to overwinter plants. Bring plants indoors before the first frost, or take cuttings from desired varieties. They can be grown indoors in rooms with bright indoor light. Fertilizerįertilize pentas twice per month with Watters Flower Power when in bloom. With their tropical origin, Egyptian star clusters love heat and humidity and thrive in warm climates. Avoid regular overhead watering to prevent unsightly brown spots on the foliage. Pentas need regular irrigation to stay healthy keep the soil moisture about the same as a wrung-out sponge. Plant directly into Watters Organic Potting Soil, are heavily amending the soil with Watters Premium Mulch will increase the acidity of your soil for brighter flowers. Pentas appreciate a mildly acidic soil pH in the range of 6.0. Plants prefer full sun, although some afternoon shade is tolerated. ![]() Plants that don’t receive enough sunlight will stretch and become leggy. Plants that receive at least three hours of direct sun will have the best flowers. Penta seeds require light to germinate, so don’t cover them with soil. Many gardeners choose penta transplants to start in the garden, but you can try planting fresh pentas seed saved from last year’s flowers. Penta plants can stay in bloom continuously under ideal growing conditions, so it’s worth weekly care to keep the plants in optimum health. Blossom colors include pink, purple, white, and red. The five-petaled blossoms grow in three-inch clusters similar to other butterfly favorites like sedum, lantana, and Queen Anne’s lace. The dark green foliage is slightly fuzzy. Plants that perennialize in frost-free zones may reach four feet tall or higher. Plants ideal for summer borders and containers: the average height of pentas is 18-24 inches. Pentas are tropical imports and grow wild in East Africa. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |