Fuchsia Growing Guide
What is Fuchsia?
Fuchsia (Fuchisa spp.) are flowering perennials that come in all shapes and sizes. It is part of the Onagraceae or evening primrose family and is native to Central and Southern America as well as a few from New Zealand and Tahiti. There are more than 100 species of Fuchsias in nature, but most garden Fuchsias are hybrids that have been bred for their showy flowers. Some species have a upright and bushy habits while others have a graceful trailing and cascading form ideal for hanging baskets. Most Fuchsias have deep green, heavily veined leaves which are usually serrated on the margin that grow in whorls on the stems. Flowers appear mostly from late Spring to early Winter and they have a pendulous teardrop shape. Some varieties, particularly in the tropics will flower all year round. The flowers come in shades of red, white, pink, and purple, as well as bi coloured. When planting a Fuchsia they like a sheltered position that is part shade particularly with morning sun. They don’t like frost or strong winds.
Benefits of Growing Fuchsia
Fuchsia are wonderfully delicate, graceful and colourful plants yet not difficult to grow. They have stunning flowers and lush foliage and offer tremendous ornamental qualities. With such a versatile range of species smaller Fuchsia are ideal for containers and hanging baskets while climbing varieties are great to be trained on espaliers. The larger upright varieties will look great when planted in your gardens plus with the added bonus of attracting butterflies and native birds to the garden.
How to Grow Fuchsia
Fuchsia Weald View Titan
Climatic Zones
Cool to tropical depending on the variety that is chosen.
Plant Size
Sizes vary.
When To Plant Fuchsia
Plant in Autumn and Spring.
Soil Preparation
They like a well drained, fertile, moist soil. Mix through some broken down compost or animal manure before planting.
How To Plant Fuchsia
Plant in a sheltered position that is in part shade. They do like morning sun. In cold climates they will tolerate full sun. Plant with the plant crown at soil level. Plant spacing will vary depending on the variety that you have.
Fuchsia Plant Care
Fuchsia needs regular watering, especially when in a pot or basket. Keep well watered during periods of active growth for the best results.
Fertilise regularly with a general purpose fertiliser.
Pinch out new growth (tip pruning) in younger plants to encourage bushiness.
Fuchsias flower on new wood, it’s helpful to prune regularly. Cut plants back hard in late Winter and give a tidy up in mid Summer.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
Susceptible to a wide range of sucking and chewing insects. Inspect regularly and treat with appropriate insecticides.
