Portulaca Plant Hybrid Seed (10 gm)

Portulaca growswell in poor, gravelly or sandy soil.

At heights of no more than 6 inches, portulaca, also known as moss rose or sun plant, is a low-growing stunner with cactus-like blooms that last all summer. The blooms, in bright jewel tones of orange, pink, purple, yellow, red and white, grow on thick, succulent foliage. Portulaca is cold-sensitive and thrives in hot, dry areas. It is grown as an annual in most climates. However, the plant is perennial in U.S. Department of Agriculture growing zones 10B through 11. Plant portacula in a rock garden, patio container or hanging basket. Once planted, portacula requires virtually no care.

Portulaca Planting & Care

Water the plant only when the top of the soil is dry, as portulaca is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in dry, desert-like soil. Use a garden hose or watering can to water the soil at the base of the plant because water may damage the blooms. To prevent the plant from rotting, always allow the top of the soil to dry between watering. Portulaca rots in soggy soil.

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Fertilize portacula every other week, using a liquid fertilizer with a balanced ratio such as 20-20-20. Alternatively, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in midsummer. Apply fertilizer according to the specifications on the package label, and then water immediately.

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Pinch off wilted blooms to prevent the plant from self-seeding. Removing the blooms, a process known as deadheading, also promotes continued blooming throughout the season.

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Check portulaca often for aphids, tiny, green insects that gather on the undersides of the leaves or at the joints of the stems and leaves. Dislodge the aphids with a strong stream of water or spray the plant with insecticidal soap spray.

Also known as English primrose, primula or common primrose, primula acaulis is a spring bloomer available in a variety of bright colors, including yellow, red, brown, bronze, wine, blue or white, and in single and double varieties. A low-growing plant that tops out at 8 inches, primula is grown in shady woodland gardens, borders, mass plantings and containers. The plant, which prefers cool, humid climates, is suitable for growing in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9.

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Water primula regularly, as the plant prefers soil that is consistently moist, but not soggy. Water is critical especially in hot climates where the plant will go dormant early in dry soil. Water deeply to a depth of 6 inches, as primula plants have shallow roots. Water again when the surface of the soil feels slightly dry, but never let the soil become completely dry.

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Spread a 1- to 2-inch layer of compost or leaf mulch around the plant to keep the roots cool and moist. Mulch is important especially in climates with hot summers. Don't apply more than 2 inches, as a thick layer of mulch provides a convenient hiding place for slugs.

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Feed primula before the plant flowers in spring. Use an all-purpose liquid fertilizer mixed at a ratio of 1 tablespoon of fertilizer in 1 gallon of water. Primula is a light feeder and requires no additional fertilizer.

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