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Once established, the lobelia plant requires little maintenance. During hot, dry periods, care of lobelia requires that the plant should receive frequent watering, however, especially those in containers. A general-purpose liquid fertilizer can be given once a month or every four to six weeks, if desired.
Does lobelia like sun or shade?
“Annual” Lobelia, a Plant of Many Uses Botanical Name Lobelia erinus Sun Exposure Full sun to partial shade Soil Type Friable, evenly moist, and well-drained Soil pH Slightly acidic to neutral Bloom Time In the North, lobelia blooms all summer and into fall, until the first frost.
How do you care for potted lobelia?
Care Needs Place your lobelia in a container with a well-draining potting medium. Lobelia likes plenty of moisture, especially when it is hot. Be careful not to keep it too soggy, though. Remember that ceramic containers dry out faster than plastic containers, so be sure to water appropriately.
How often do you water lobelia?
Careful watering is essential in getting lobelia perennials off to a good start. Water thoroughly at least once a week to help new roots grow down deeply. Soil should be damp at about 1 inch below the soil surface.
How long do lobelia plants last?
High heat can cause lobelia to suffer, but the plants stay in bloom for many weeks in areas with cool nights.
How do you keep lobelia blooming?
Water regularly. Lobelia requires consistent soil moisture for prolific blooms. Water the plants regularly in the absence of rainfall, so that the soil is moist but not soggy. To help keep the soil surrounding lobelia consistently moist, mulch with a 2-inch layer of ground bark or leaf mold.
Can you grow Lobelia cardinalis in pots?
Annual lobelias look great in summer containers, particularly the trailing types, which look great spilling over the edge of a hanging basket. Growing in partial shade will ensure that the plants flower for longer, especially in a very hot summer. Lobelia cardinalis is best grown in sun or partial shade.
Why are my lobelia dying?
Too Little Water. During warm weather, lobelia leaves and flowers can dry out. If the dehydration is too severe, the plant may die. Water your lobelia in pots consistently so the soil stays moist and never draws away from the side of the container.
Is lobelia a good house plant?
Lobelia seeds can be sown directly in the garden or indoors for later transplanting. These plants typically require an area with full sun but will tolerate partial shade. They also prefer moist, rich soil. Start indoors about 10 to 12 weeks prior to the last frost in your region.
What are the benefits of lobelia?
Lobelia (Lobelia inflata), also called Indian tobacco, has a long history of use as an herbal remedy for respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and cough. Historically, Native Americans smoked lobelia as a treatment for asthma.Medicinal Uses and Indications Asthma. Bronchitis. Cough.
How many hours of sun does lobelia need?
Site. Beds that receive at least six hours of sun work well for blue lobelia. The plants can tolerate some afternoon shade if they receive direct morning sun. In warmer climates, it does better in partial shade.
Does lobelia like to be fertilized?
Fertilize to Promote Healthy Blooms Although a yearly feeding is sufficient for perennials, annual lobelia requires frequent feeding to sustain energy for blooming throughout the season. Use a liquid fertilizer with a ratio such as 12-4-8, mixed at a rate of 1 teaspoon per gallon of water every two to three weeks.
What does lobelia symbolize?
What Do Lobelia Flowers Symbolize? These flowers have many potential meanings, depending on the color of the flower and where you live. In some cultures, they symbolize love while others associate them with good luck or prosperity. These flowers are also often worn as jewelry to symbolize love or friendship.
Do lobelia grow back every year?
Lobelia cardinalis is a short-lived perennial, so divide it every 2 years in spring to maintain its vigour.Perennial lobelia. Flowering season(s) Summer, Autumn Foliage season(s) Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter Sunlight Partial shade, Full sun.
What to do with lobelia after flowering?
Cut back the plant by half or more at the end of its bloom period. Trimming back lobelia plants keeps them from looking messy, and it may encourage another flush of blooms.
Is lobelia annual or perennial?
Although there are hundreds of lobelia varieties, these are the types most commonly grown in the home garden: Edging lobelias (Lobelia erinus) and their hybrids are tender perennials grown as warm-weather garden annuals. Often grown as container and edging plants, they can have bushy or trailing habits.
How long does it take lobelia to bloom?
Quick Reference Growing Guide Plant Type: Tender perennial grown as an annual Blue, pink, purple, white/green Growth Rate: Moderate Campanulaceae Time to Maturity: 12-16 weeks from sowing Lobelia Water Needs: Moderate erinus Common Pests: Corn earworm Damping off.
How do you grow lobelia?
Sowing: Sprinkle the lobelia seeds on the surface of a good seed compost and do not cover the tiny flower seeds with anything, the lobelia seeds need light to germinate. Gently firm the compost down after you sprinkled the seeds. Keep the seed trays, pots at a temperature of 18-24 Celsius.
