Cineraria, also known as the Pericallis or Senecio, is a delightful and colourful flowering plant. Its vibrant, daisy-like flowers come in a range of hues, creating a cheerful display in your garden. Cineraria is a wonderful choice for adding a burst of colour and a touch of natural charm to your outdoor space.
Planting Calendar
There are several varieties of Cineraria that can be planted at different times of the year.
Prepare
Cineraria is a compact flowering annual plant that is smothered in vibrant flowers ranging in colour from white, pink, blue and burgundy some are even multi coloured. Flowers are produced in late autumn and winter when there is not a lot of colour in the garden. They look great in garden beds and boarders and work well in containers where they make a striking show. Silver Dust is a variety grown for its foliage alone which is furry and silver, this variety is well suited for hot sunny areas in garden boarders or containers.
Position
Cineraria prefers a fully to partially shaded area of the garden. Hot sun will burn the leaves and flowers. With the exception of the silver leafed variety Silver Dust, which likes a hot sunny spot.
Soil
When planted into the ground Cineraria prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants is well watered then, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist when growing Cineraria. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Protecting
Protect from frosts and cold harsh winds.
Spraying
Caterpillars, slugs and snails are known to like munching on cineraria. Apply slug bait to control snails and spray with Mavrik for caterpillars.
Pruning
Remove (deadhead) old flowers as they fade.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions carefully. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Expert Tip
Cineraria if allowed will go to seed, sprouting up again when conditions are favourable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Cineraria?
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist when growing Cineraria. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
How do I deal with pests on Cineraria?
Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regularly inspect your plants and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How do I propagate Cineraria?
Cineraria can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in late summer to early autumn. For cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting and root it in a moist potting mix.
Can Cineraria tolerate frost?
Cineraria is sensitive to frost. If frost is expected, cover the plants or bring potted plants indoors to protect them.
When does Cineraria bloom?
Cineraria typically blooms in late winter to early spring, producing vibrant flowers that can last several weeks.