Likes
& dislikes of Lapageria rosea
They need acid soil (PH 6 or lower) preferably kept moist (well drained and humus rich) most bagged peat based composts for acid loving plants with a bit of added grit are fine. My own mix is now 2 parts course bark 1 part grit 1 part peat.
High
humidity. If destined for outside then I would advise growing on in a 7.5 or
10lt pot for a further year or two to have a good sized plant, choose a plastic
pot that can be cut away to avoid root disturbance.
They
have large root systems, so if destined for a pot they need a large one (but you
build up to that over time.) bear in mind the need for repotting when choosing
pots, some are too big or the wrong shape to allow you to re-pot, I prefer
plastic because I can cut them away when re-potting but I often place these
inside a nice pottery one
Be
careful not to disturb the root system too much while repotting (cut the bag
away), avoid repotting young plants, better to leave in the original container
until roots are hanging out of the bottom. They resent root disturbance and
often sulk for periods after. I
would recommend leaving it in its original container, and splitting the bag
sides in situ without attempting to remove the bag completely.
They
dislike heat and strong sun light, so place in shaded positions.
The
young growth is very sensitive to damage, avoid manhandling it or allowing
mechanical damage from wind. Frost can also be a problem in spring (Lapageria
are very good under cold greenhouse conditions, but the adult growth IS
frost hardy and they can be grown outdoors, but require a wind sheltered
position and an acid soil with good drainage)
They
are not prone to any pests or diseases but watch for snails in spring, and if
aphids become a concern I find a spray of plain water to knock them off is best.
Flowers
appear on newish growth that hangs from the top, (July to March under glass and
occasionally at other times) so allow plant to climb up and then cascade down.
Once going they are easy and trouble free and flower for 6 months or more! You
may get in contact at any time if there is anything else you wish to know