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Compost

Fertiliser

Heating

Heel cuttings

Pruning

Watering

Q&A

A tender evergreen or semi-evergreen flowering shrub that requires greenhouse treatment in the UK

The scented flowers appear in late June to August.

They can grow to a height of 1.2 metres (4ft) with a similar spread.

During the winter months they require a minimum temperature of 12°C (55°F) and should be kept just slightly moist.

In summer, water the plants freely, and feed every two weeks with a liquid fertilizer from May till October.

Plants can be placed outdoors for the summer months (June-Sept)

If kept in the greenhouse, keep the atmosphere humid by damping down the floor/ground beneath them.

Avoid direct sunlight, shade if necessary, and if the temperature rises to say 18°- 20°C (65°- 70°F) ventilate the greenhouse more.

Week 2; Sow seed in pots/trays of seed compost and germinate at 21°C(70°F)

Germination will take around 4-5 weeks.

Week 4; Pot up seedlings from previous year into 100-125mm (4"-5") pots of of potting compost and grow on in a frost free environment.

Ensure they get maximum light but not direct sunlight.

Week 10; Take heel cuttings from non flowering lateral shoots, and root at a temperature of 18°- 20°C (65°- 70°F)

Once rooted pot up the cuttings into individual 70mm (3”) pots and grow on at the same temperature.

Week 12; Prick out seedlings into 70mm(3") individual pots of potting compost and grow on in a frost free environment.

Ensure they get maximum light but not direct sunlight.

Week 15; Re-pot established plants annually, until they are in 200mm (8”) pots.

Week 30; Pinch out the growing tip of the cuttings to promote bushier growth.

Week 35; Prune back new growth of established plants by half or two thirds after flowering.

 

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