Phygelius capensis ‘Candy Drops Deep Rose’

Phygelius capensis ‘Candy Drops Deep Rose’ is a compact and early-flowering perennial that produces masses of stunning, narrow, deep rose-pink trumpet-shaped flowers with a contrasting white throat. The flowers bloom from June to September, adding vibrant color and an exotic look to your garden. Whether you’re planting in borders, containers, or beds, this guide will help ensure your Phygelius capensis ‘Candy Drops Deep Rose’ flourishes.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The best time to plant Phygelius capensis ‘Candy Drops Deep Rose’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This gives the roots time to establish before the blooming season begins, resulting in strong and healthy plants that will flower profusely.
• Autumn: Alternatively, early autumn is another good time to plant. This allows the plant to settle in before the colder months, giving it a head start for the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Phygelius thrives in full sun or partial shade. For optimal growth and flowering, select a location where the plant will receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. This will promote strong blooms and lush foliage.
• Soil: This plant prefers free-draining, fertile soil. Ensure that the soil is moist but well-drained, as Phygelius capensis ‘Candy Drops Deep Rose’ does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Adding organic matter like compost can help improve soil structure and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of your Phygelius. This will give the roots enough space to spread out and grow comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to increase fertility and improve drainage. Phygelius will benefit from nutrient-rich soil that supports strong, healthy growth.
3. Planting: Place the plant in the prepared hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Gently backfill the hole with soil, firming it lightly to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots. Be sure the soil drains well to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Phygelius is fairly drought-tolerant. However, it will thrive with regular watering during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to avoid waterlogging.
• Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering. Phygelius does not require much moisture during this time. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to give your Phygelius a strong start to the growing season. This will promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed in mid-summer can help boost blooming and support continuous growth throughout the flowering season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regular deadheading is recommended to remove spent flowers and encourage new blooms. This also helps to maintain a neat appearance and prolong the flowering season.
• Autumn Pruning: After the flowering period ends in autumn, cut back the plant to ground level. This prepares the plant for winter dormancy and ensures healthy growth in the following spring.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Phygelius in spring to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic materials like bark chips or compost.
• Winter: Mulch around the plant in winter to protect the roots from frost and prevent frost heaving. This helps the plant survive through the colder months and encourages strong growth in spring.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Phygelius capensis ‘Candy Drops Deep Rose’ is generally a compact plant, but staking may be necessary in windy conditions or if the plant grows tall and top-heavy during blooming. Light staking will prevent the stems from breaking.

Final Tips

Phygelius capensis ‘Candy Drops Deep Rose’ is a hardy and low-maintenance perennial that will add vibrant, exotic-looking flowers to your garden from June to September. By following these simple care instructions, including planting in full sun or partial shade and ensuring well-drained soil, your plant will thrive and reward you with an abundance of deep rose-pink trumpet-shaped blooms.

Incorporate Phygelius into your garden for a striking, early-flowering plant that enhances borders, containers, and beds with its beautiful blooms. Proper care, including regular watering, feeding, and pruning, will ensure your plant remains healthy and stunning throughout the growing season.