Francoa sonchifolia ‘Pink Bouquet’

Description

Francoa sonchifolia ‘Pink Bouquet’ is a charming perennial known for its glossy, semi-evergreen foliage and tall, elegant spikes of pink flowers that appear from mid- to late summer. Ideal for borders and lightly shaded gardens, this easy-care plant adds soft colour and graceful movement to planting schemes.

PLANTING AND AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Francoa sonchifolia ‘Pink Bouquet’ in spring as the soil warms, helping the roots establish before flowering.
• Autumn: It can also be planted in early autumn to settle in before winter dormancy.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Francoa sonchifolia ‘Pink Bouquet’ grows best in full sun or partial shade. Partial shade is especially beneficial for maintaining fresh, healthy foliage.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter ensures strong growth and abundant flowering.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.

2. Soil Preparation: Mix garden compost into the soil to boost fertility and drainage.

3. Planting: Place Francoa sonchifolia ‘Pink Bouquet’ so the top of the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm the soil.

4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Francoa sonchifolia ‘Pink Bouquet’ is moderately drought-tolerant. Water during prolonged dry spells, but allow the soil to drain between waterings.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly—only water if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support fresh growth.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed can encourage additional flowering and maintain plant vigour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower spikes to prolong the flowering season and keep the plant tidy.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering is finished, cut back old stems to tidy the plant for winter.

Mulching

• Spring: Mulch around the base to retain moisture, control weeds, and stabilise soil temperature.
• Winter: A protective mulch helps insulate the roots and maintain soil structure.

Supporting the Plant

• Francoa sonchifolia ‘Pink Bouquet’ typically has sturdy stems and rarely needs staking. In exposed areas, light support may be beneficial.

Final Tips

Francoa sonchifolia ‘Pink Bouquet’ is a reliable and low-maintenance perennial that brings elegance and colour to garden borders. Plant it in fertile, free-draining soil with sun or partial shade, and it will reward you with beautiful summer blooms and attractive foliage throughout the season.

RHS Details

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