Fuchsia

Fuchsias are dramatic and excitingly exotic looking flowers that look wonderful in a pot on a patio, in a sheltered south-facing corner of the garden or in a hanging basket. When taken care of these pretty, unusually shaped flowers can be in bloom all summer long, pleasing the eye and bringing beneficial and beautiful insects to your garden.

Growing fuchsia:

There are a range of different types of fuchsia, some hardy, some half-hardy and some that must definitely be brought inside over the winter months. All types are usually bought from a garden centre or plant nursery rather than being grown from scratch. Cuttings of various sorts can also be taken from an existing plant. Soft-wood, semi-ripe and hardwood cuttings are all possibilities.

Fuchsias like to be somewhere out of full sunlight – a slightly shaded, sheltered spot is perfect for them. This is more important in southern regions, where hot summers are more frequent. Water during periods of dry weather in summer but take care not to over-water and avoid letting the roots become waterlogged. It is vital to make sure, especially when fuchsias are planted in pots or baskets, that they have adequate drainage.

Fuchsias are quite hungry plants and will flower much better if they are fertilised with a good quality organic fertiliser every couple of weeks. A 'tea' made from nettles and other weeds will do fine. As winter approaches, however, you should not fertilise any more and should allow the plant to prepare for winter.

It is easier to grow most varieties in a pot or some kind of container so that it can be brought under glass or inside during the winter months. It is also easier to keep fuchsia's pruned and under control when they are contained in a pot, though in a sheltered spot, hardy varieties can be trained to form an arbour or trained over a porch and can look absolutely delightful.

Why grow fuchsia in the garden?

The main reason to grow fuchsias is for the pleasing shape, form and colour of the flowers. Though you are not the only one who will enjoy them: bees and other insects will also be drawn into your garden and can help with the pollination of other plants and with the garden's overall biodiversity.

Quick Facts

Latin Name
Fuchsia