Getting our hands dirty

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Firehouse Red Verbena Color Code: 186c BFP 2019 Container On Sweep, Vegetative 06.13 Arroyo Grande, Mark Widhalm VER-5845_02_02.JPG VER13-16031_AL_COMP.jpg Also EnduraScape Red Verbena

We’re planting …the new bedding impatiens ‘Beacon’ that blooms from spring to the first frost and is highly resistant to downy mildew.  Busy lizzies (Impatiens walleriana) used to fill shady gardens, until the fungus disease wiped them out. After years of breeding and collaboration, seed growers have finally bred a highly resistant variety. It was successfully trialled overseas and in Joburg last year and the thumbs up given for its release this spring. ‘Beacon’ does not require any special treatment. It does best in shade to semi-shade, requires well-composted soil and regular watering. Fertilise once a month with a liquid fertiliser to encourage plentiful flowers. Flower colours are Bright Red, Orange, Violet Shades, Salmon, White and Coral as well as a mix. This highly resistant impatiens is identifiable from other varieties by a colourful ‘Beacon’ label.

For further information: www.ballstraathof.co.za

 

Best for patios…Verbena peruviana ‘Firehouse’ is perfect for hanging baskets and containers because if forms a mound of flowers that easily fills a hanging basket or patio planter. What’s different about this verbena is that it doesn’t cycle in and out of flowers. New flowers are opening as the old ones die. The foliage is tough and disease resistant too. Place in a position that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Baskets require daily watering in summer and containers every second to third day. Fertilise with a liquid fertiliser for flowers twice a month. Plants are available in eight different colours including purple fizz and lavender.

For further information: www.ballstraathof.co.za

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