- Location for the perennial lobelia
- Soil for the perennial lobelia
- Prune perennial lobelia
- Water perennial lobelia
- Fertilize perennial lobelia
- Perennial lobelia overwinter
- Propagating perennial lobelia
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The perennial lobelia is very popular. No wonder, after all it is a reblooming species that can go through two flowering periods per year. Our article tells you how to properly care for this plant in order to enjoy the colorful pleasure.
Only with good care does the perennial lobelia bloom persistentlyLocation for the perennial lobelia
As a native South African, the perennial lobelia likes a sunny, warm location, but without the blazing midday sun. Towering varieties prefer a sheltered location.
Soil for the perennial lobelia
Normal garden soil is perfectly fine. Make sure the soil is fresh and moist, rich in humus and nutrients and well-drained. The perennial lobelia cannot do anything with waterlogging.
Note: If you want to cultivate a perennial lobelia in a pot, it is best to use high-quality potting soil. The permeability can be improved with lava granulate (€13.99) or sand.
Prune perennial lobelia
Cutting is an important care measure for the perennial lobelia. If you shorten the plant by about a third after the first flowering and then add a little compost with horn shavings (32.93€) to the roots, the plant will reward you with a second flowering a few weeks later. In this way, the flowering period is significantly extended - well into autumn.
Important: only cut back your magnificent perennial lobelia close to the ground in early spring.
Water perennial lobelia
Always water the plant as soon as the soil has dried. The perennial lobelia is one of the thirstiest perennials. The plant evaporates a lot of moisture through the countless leaves and the opulent blossom. The water should reach the roots directly from the spout.
Fertilize perennial lobelia
In order to spoil you with the lush bloom, the perennial lobelia needs a lot of nutrients. Therefore, several fertilizer applications per year are recommended. Give the plant a portion of compost with horn shavings once a month from May to September.
Perennial lobelia overwinter
Perennial lobelia are among the (few) frost-sensitive species. Nevertheless, in regions with mild winters, they have the chance to live for at least two years. Here are specific tips for overwintering the plants:
- DO NOT cut back in the fall
- Bedding perennials: cover with a 20 to 30 centimeter thick layer of leaves, straw, brushwood or garden fleece (remove the cover by mid-March at the latest)
- Pot/balcony perennials: move to a bright, frost-free winter quarters before winter and water occasionally throughout the cool season (do not return to the garden or balcony until May)
- DO NOT fertilize
Propagating perennial lobelia
As with other perennials, the perennial lobelia is propagated by sharing.