Fuchsias coping with water restrictions
Fuchsias in the past have been recognized as being high water users, but in fact if planted correctly and you follow some of the tips below you will find that they will use a lot less water than you think:
- It is best to plant in late autumn when soil is still warm enough for growth and the roots can develop deeper during Winter/Spring.
- There are now lots of water saving granules and wetting agents on the market, Use these when planting.
- Ensure your fuchsia is well planted with potting mix level planted just below top of planting soil. Build up a small mound around the drip line of the plant so that it holds a reservoir of water when watered.
- During summer water deeply and less often to encourage deeper roots and less evaporation.
- Prepare your soil well, Using lots of organic material and composts i.e. Blood & Bone, rotted manures. With this the soil is able to retain more moisture and fertilizer.
- Once planted ensure to mulch well and thick.
- Try not to plant your fuchsia in direct afternoon sun or in areas of wind.
- Regularly fertilize for plant health and resistance to heat stress.
- Fuchsias that are well spaced will ëbreathe' better and not compete for moisture, Remove all weeds etc from around.
- During summer products like ëEnvy' can reduce transpiration by the plant and help against wilting; ëEnvy' is a liquid polymer which is sprayed on, also very effective against frost damage in winter.
- When planting out baskets use wetting agents and water saving granules, Ensure basket is of good size to prevent it from drying out to quickly.
- Avoid using plastic baskets as these absorb heat from the sun and kill fuchsias quickly in summer. Use fibre lined baskets instead, these ëbreathe' better & drain away excess watering
- When planting your basket use a piece of plastic with a hole in the centre for drainage this will help retain some moisture.
- Regular pruning of spent flowers & seed pods will invigorate the plant and reduce energy into producing seed.
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