Purslane is a flowering succulent that blooms from late spring through late summer. The plant continues to set new flowers throughout the bloom cycle, constantly putting on a stunning display. The bright flowers have ruffled petals, adding texture to a landscape or mixed container. While the trailing stems and thin green foliage provide a nice contrast, the flowers are the main draw of Purslane. It's disappointing when Purslane is not flowering, or buds are not opening, but it is a fixable problem. You can get Purslane to bloom by understanding the problem and working to resolve the issue.
Common Reasons Why Purslane Isn’t Blooming
Purslane care is simple, and plants that receive the correct care will bloom. Plants that receive inadequate care may not bloom. The location matters when growing Purslane. Lots of bright sunlight and warm temperatures are necessary for Purslane to bloom. Purslane grown in low light may become leggy and may not bloom or have limited flowers. Plants experiencing water stress–either too much or not enough water–may also fail to bloom.
Pruning Purslane To Help It Bloom
Overgrown plants may direct a lot of energy into growing and maintaining their stems and foliage, so the plant does not set flower buds or not as many flower buds. Pruning straggly or overgrown stems creates a dense-looking plant and enables the Purslane to redirect energy into flowers. Removing spent blooms, or deadheading, also allows the plant to make the best use of its resources to grow more flowers instead of producing seed. Deer do not favor Purslane, but plants that have sustained animal damage need time to regroup and start growing again before they can set flowers.
Fertilizing Purslane To Help It Bloom
Purslane is not a heavy feeder; this plant can live well in poor-quality soil. However, fertilizing this plant occasionally during the growing season will help it thrive and bloom. Purslane does best with a slow-release plant food with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or something similar. Overfeeding or using the wrong fertilizer mix may prevent the plant from blooming.
Get Purslane To Produce More Blooms
Purslane will continue to bloom throughout the summer under ideal conditions. You can help your plant bloom by ensuring it receives plenty of sunlight and moving it to a warm area, like near a paved surface that retains heat. Water the plant when the top layer of soil is dry, but do not give the plant too much water because it is susceptible to root rot. Deadhead the plant to encourage more flowers and trim back leggy overgrowth.
Why Purslane Isn’t Blooming
- Not enough sunlight
- Improper watering
- Overgrown
- Incorrect fertilizer
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Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 04-20-2023 |