Fuchsia, with its pendulous, tubular flowers in vibrant shades of pink, purple, and red, is a delightful and eye-catching addition to any garden. These blooms attract bees and butterflies, infusing your outdoor space with a lively and colourful atmosphere. Fuchsia's easy care and versatile growth habits, whether in hanging baskets, pots, or garden beds, make it a fantastic choice for gardeners seeking a pop of vivid charm and natural beauty.
Planting Calendar
The best time to plant Fuchsia is in spring.
Harvest In
Fuchsia flower from spring, summer and autumn.
Prepare
Fuchsia are a versatile old time favourite in the garden, They come in many varieties from upright bushes, trailing and groundcovers. They can be either grown in the ground, pots or hanging baskets. Flowers come a vast range of colours and sizes, some single some double all appearing like skirted little ballerinas.
Position
Fuchsia can be grown in full to part shade with protection from harsh midday sun.
Soil
When planted into the ground Fuchsia 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, 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
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. Avoid wetting foliage.
Feeding
Feed with Kings Slow Release Rose food. For strong healthy roots, 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 frost and harsh cold winds.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground.
Spraying
Fuchsia can be prone to attack from sap sucking insects, spray if needed with BioNeem.
Pruning
Fuchsia flowers fall on their own but leave behind a seed pod which should be removed as the plant will put its energy into this and reduce flowering. Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushy growth.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Expert Tip
Fuchsias flower on new wood, so prune regularly and to encourage new flower-promoting growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best location to plant Fuchsia?
Fuchsias thrive in partially shaded areas with protection from harsh afternoon sun. They enjoy a spot with morning sun and dappled light throughout the day.
How often should I water my Fuchsia?
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. Avoid wetting foliage.
What type of soil is best for Fuchsias?
When planted into the ground Fuchsia 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.
How do I prune my Fuchsia?
Fuchsia flowers fall on their own but leave behind a seed pod which should be removed as the plant will put its energy into this and reduce flowering. Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushy growth.
How can I protect my Fuchsia from pests?
Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regularly inspect your plants and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.