Is an Angelonia Plant Good for Gardens?

Long-lasting colour and low maintenance are welcome features in any backyard, and angelonia plants (Angelonia x hybrida) deliver both in abundance. Grown throughout the U.S. as annuals, these tender perennials are hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. The very same qualities which maintain angelonias in need for vibrant and containers, annual screens stand out in mixed borders and other garden configurations.

Consistent Color

Give angelonias full, direct sun and well-drained dirt, and prepare yourself to enjoy flowers all year. Based on variety, the prolific plants might arrive to 30 inches tall and 2 feet wide. Angelonias are not sensitive to day length — they keep blooming if days are short or long — but they do react to temperatures. The mild-scented, delphinium-like flower spikes bloom consistently in warm states, but they slow when temperatures dip in cool climates. Temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit elicit the heaviest blooms. Angelonia flowers produce few viable seeds, therefore self-seeding isn’t a issue.

Heating and Humidity Tolerance

Locating garden plants that withstand high heat or high humidity can be tough, but angelonias endure both states. Even when spaced just 9 to 12 inches apart with striking, massed impact, the disease-resistant plants handle humidity and limited circulation. In a number of other garden plants, high summer heat inhibits blooming and leaves midsummer gardens and new bouquets lacking. However, angelonias greet the warmth with dependable, steady blooms. The summery flower spikes are excellent cut flowers, too. They continue a week or more in indoor structures.

Drought and Pest Resistance

Established angelonias tolerate occasional drought — a helpful garden trait. Water deeply when you water, then allow the soil to dry 2 to 3 inches deep before watering again. Avoid overwatering; wet soil leads to root issues and weak growth. Insect pests seldom trouble healthy angelonias. Fundamental, balanced nutrition keeps resistance powerful. Provide the foundation using a 1- to 2-inch layer of organic matter worked into soil prior to planting. Supply an ongoing lift having a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer, such as 20-20-20. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of fertilizer per 1 gallon of water, and then apply every two to four weeks during the growing season.

Forms and Flowers

Angelonias come in various forms suited to garden needs. Tall, large-flowered varieties pair using bushy, compact kinds, and trailing, weeping forms spill over backyard ledges. Super-compact, dwarf varieties tuck in where you need enduring color. Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage more blossoms. If blooms wane, shear the plants using garden scissors or shears. Sterilize your blades using family disinfectant before and following each plant, and cut below the previous blooms. A fresh flush of blossoms should appear in about 2 weeks. This also stimulates branching and bushy growth.

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