Nemesia Nemesia 'Fleurie Bluebird'

Water

Nemesia, also known as Cape Jewels, prefers evenly moist soil, so it's important to water it thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This can mean watering approximately once or twice a week, depending on the climate and weather conditions. It’s best to use a gentle shower from a watering can or hose attachment to mimic natural rainfall when watering Cape Jewels. In terms of the amount, aim to provide about one to two gallons of water weekly, making sure to avoid waterlogging the soil, as this can lead to root rot.

Light

For the best growth, Cape Jewels require full sun to partial shade conditions. They thrive when they receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. A spot that is sunny in the morning but shaded during the hottest part of the afternoon is often ideal. Avoid placing Cape Jewels in deep shade, as this can hinder flower production and lead to leggy growth.

Temperature

Cape Jewels do best in moderate temperatures and can typically handle a range from about 40°F to 80°F. They prefer cooler conditions and can suffer in hot weather, especially if temperatures exceed 85°F regularly. To promote prolonged flowering, keep them in an environment where nighttime temperatures are between 50°F and 60°F.

Pruning

Pruning Cape Jewels encourages bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote new ones. You can also lightly prune the plant throughout the growing season to maintain its shape. The best time for major pruning is in the late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Trim back leggy stems by about a third to help rejuvenate the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Nemesia 'Fleurie Bluebird', commonly known as Cape Jewels, thrives best in a well-draining, fertile soil mix with a pH range of 5.5 to 7. A mixture of loamy soil, peat, and sharp sand or perlite is ideal to ensure good drainage and aeration. Regular enrichment with compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer will support its growth and flowering.

Repotting

Cape Jewels should be repotted annually, or as soon as they outgrow their current container. This process encourages fresh growth and allows you to refresh the soil mix, thus maintaining its nutrient-richness and good drainage properties. Gently tease the roots while repotting to stimulate growth.

Humidity & Misting

Cape Jewels prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to a range of conditions. However, avoid very high humidity as this can encourage fungal diseases. Striking a balance near 50% relative humidity is ideal for these plants.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Nemesia in bright indirect light indoors.

• Outdoor

  Ensure full sun to part shade and protect from harsh elements.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Nemesia 'Bluebird' begins its life cycle as a dormant seed which will germinate in response to the appropriate conditions of warmth and moisture, typically in spring. Upon germination, it develops a root system and a small set of initial leaves, entering its vegetative stage where it will grow rapidly. As it matures, the plant produces a profusion of distinctive blue flowers, marking its flowering stage, which is key for reproduction and attractive to pollinators. After pollination, the flowers will develop into seed pods, culminating in the seeds' dispersal, which completes the reproductive stage. Outside of ideal climates, Nemesia 'Bluebird' may behave as an annual, dying after setting seed, but in milder climates, it may survive as a perennial, going dormant over winter only to regrow from its root system the following spring. Throughout its growing season, regular deadheading can encourage additional blooming cycles and extend its vibrant display.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Nemesia 'Fleurie Bluebird', commonly referred to simply as Nemesia, is a vibrant flowering plant often propagated in the early spring to ensure that the temperatures are mild enough for the young plants to establish themselves. The most popular method of propagation for Nemesia is through seed sowing. Seeds can be sown indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date to ensure that they are ready to be planted out after the danger of frost has passed. When sowing seeds, lightly press them into a well-draining seed starting mix and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The ideal temperature for germination is between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings usually emerge within 10 to 14 days and should be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before transplanting into the garden or into individual pots.