Torenia is commonly grown as an annual, but this plant is winter hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11. Also known as the Wishbone Flower, this plant is compact and only reaches about 8 to 16 inches tall and 8 to 10 inches wide. Since this flowering beauty only lasts for one growing season in most areas and maintains a relatively compact size, Torenia is excellent for growing in pots or planters. Torenia requires very little care to thrive, but here is what you need to know to grow Wishbone Flower in pots.
Planting Torenia in Pots
Plant Torenia in planters or containers during the spring after there is no longer a chance of frost. The container should be placed in a spot that receives partial sun. Generally, 2 to 3 Torenia can comfortably live in a 10-inch pot, and the pot should have drainage holes, so excess water can easily flow out of the pot.
Best Soil For Torenia in Pots
The right soil makes a difference, and Torenia prefers soil with high organic content and is well-drained. This easy-care plant is relatively durable, but too much water can be damaging, so well-drained soil is essential. The soil should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Caring For Torenia in Planters
Wishbone flower is easy to grow, making it an excellent addition to a planter. The upright growth habit and lovely flowers serve the role of filler and thriller in a mixed planter. Add Torenia to a hanging basket for height and color. Torenia has high water needs, so a planter made from a solid material, like plastic or metal, will prevent the soil from drying out quickly. Porous planters, like terra cotta, can be a good fit, but the plant may need water more often.
Watering Torenia in Pots
Water Torenia when the top couple of inches of the soil starts to dry. This plant has high water requirements, so saturate the soil until water drains. It may not be necessary to water after rainfall but routinely check during periods of drought to ensure the plant is hydrated and healthy.
Fertilizing Torenia in Pots
Feeding Torenia in pots will keep the plants healthy and blooming. This plant is not a heavy feeder, but routine applications of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer will promote new growth and plenty of blooms throughout the summer. Fertilize Torenia in pots more often than plants in the ground. Potted plants need to be watered more often, so the fertilizer is flushed away and will need to be replenished more frequently.
Winter Care For Torenia in Pots
The first frost or chilly temperatures usually end the growing season for Torenia. This plant is not cold-hardy and only grows as a perennial in zones 10 through 11. The plants can be trimmed in warm areas to encourage new growth. The plant can be composted in cold regions, or potted plants can easily be brought indoors and grown as houseplants.
Growing Torenia Indoors
You may wonder, can Torenia be grown indoors as a houseplant? Yes, the Wishbone Flower can be brought indoors. Trim back overgrowth and bring the plant inside well before the weather turns cold. Torenia grown indoors will need medium to low indirect light and water when the top few inches of soil dry out.
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Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 30-06-2022 |