3 Review(s)

Ruffled blooms are essential for both formal and casual bouquets.A must-have flower for both formal and casual arrangements, creamy white lisianthus is irresistibly beautiful. Borne on strong stems, these exquisite ruffled blooms have a very long vase life. Ordinarily a commercial cut-flower that’s hard to grow from seed, we start the plants for you, so you can make bouquets just like the pros..How to Sow and PlantLisianthus may be grown from potted plantsPlanting Potted Plants in the Garden:Select a location in full sun with good rich moist organic, well-drained soil.Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 6-12, inches removing any debris, and lightly raking as level as possible.The addition of organic matter (leaf mold, compost, well-rotted manure) benefits all gardens and is essential in recently constructed neighborhoods.Plant on a cloudy day or in late afternoon to reduce transplant shock.Dig a hole for each plant, approximately 6-8 inches apart large enough to amply accommodate the root ball.Unpot the plant and gently loosen the root ball with your hands to encourage good root growth.Place the top of the root ball even with the level of the surrounding soil. Fill with soil to the top of the root ball. Press soil down firmly with your hand.Use the plant tag as a location marker.Thoroughly water and apply a light mulch layer on top of the soil (1-2 inches) to conserve water and reduce weeds.Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. For annuals an organic mulch of shredded leaves lends a natural look to the bed and will improve the soil as it breaks down in time. Always keep mulches off a plant’s stems to prevent possible rot.Keep plants well-watered during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Plants need about 1 inch of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water. It's best to water with a drip or trickle system that delivers water at low pressure at the soil level. If you water with overhead sprinklers, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry off before evening, to minimize disease problems. Keep the soil moist but not saturated.Until plants become established, some protection from extreme winds and direct, hot sunlight may be necessary. Good air movement is also important.After new growth appears, a light fertilizer may be applied. Keep granular fertilizers away from the plant crown and foliage to avoid burn injury. Use low rates of a slow release fertilizer, as higher rates may encourage root rots.Remove spent flower spikes to encourage flowering and prevent seed development. Pinching the growing tips of plants can encourage bushiness.Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.Lisianthus is grown primarily for its stunning, long-lasting cut flowers that look like roses.The shorter cultivars are attractive in containers.All types may be used in borders or as edgings, as long as they are spaced closely together.Plants are resistant to heat and humidity.Protect taller varieties from the wind.Pinching can encourage bushier growth.