Elevate your garden's visual appeal with the striking Senecio. Admire its soft-to-touch, silver-white foliage that adds a year-round metallic sheen to your outdoor haven.
Planting Calendar
Prepare
Position
Senecio thrive in full sun to part shade. Select a location that receives plenty of morning sunlight but is sheltered from the intense midday heat.
Soil
This plant loves well-draining soil. Improve your garden bed by working in a blend of Kings Compost and pumice to aid in drainage. In pots, use a high-quality potting mix, like Kings Container Mix, that allows for adequate water flow.
Plant
When planting, take the Senecio out of its pot and gently tease the roots. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Incorporate a mix of compost, pumice, and a slow-release fertiliser before placing the plant in the hole. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Press the soil down firmly and water in with a seaweed-based plant tonic, like Aquaticus Garden Booster, to encourage root growth.
Care
Watering
Senecio is drought-tolerant once established but will benefit from regular watering during its first growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid root rot.
Feeding
Feed with a slow-release fertiliser in early spring. You can also use a liquid seaweed solution like Aquaticus Garden Booster monthly during the growing season to provide nutrients and bolster root development.
Mulching
Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to conserve moisture and reduce weed competition. Take care not to pile mulch against the foliage to prevent moisture-related diseases.
Pruning
Minimal pruning is required. Deadhead spent flowers and remove any damaged or dead leaves to keep the plant looking its best. Pruning can also be done to shape the plant if desired.
General Care
Monitor for pests and diseases and treat with appropriate organic solutions. Always follow label instructions when applying any product to your plants. Avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plant to keep it healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Senecio plants attract pests?
Senecio can attract pests like aphids and mealybugs. Regularly inspect your plant and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Are Senecio plants toxic to pets?
Some Senecio varieties can be toxic if ingested by pets. It's best to keep these plants out of reach of curious pets.
How do I propagate Senecio?
Senecio is easily propagated by cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem, let it dry for a day or two, and then plant it in well-draining soil.
How often should I water my Senecio?
Senecio is drought-tolerant once established but will benefit from regular watering during its first growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid root rot.
What is Senecio and how do I care for it?
Senecio is a diverse genus of plants that includes groundcovers, succulents, and shrubs. They generally prefer well-drained soil, plenty of sunlight, and occasional watering.