Nemesia Nemesia Melanie = 'Fleuron'

Water

Cape Jewels should be watered thoroughly until water runs freely from the drainage holes, indicating the soil is sufficiently moist. During the active growing season in spring and summer, watering should occur once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions; more frequent watering may be necessary if it's particularly hot or dry. Ensure the top inch of soil dries out between waterings to prevent over-watering and root rot. In cooler months, reduce watering to every two weeks. Generally, it's best to apply approximately one gallon per watering for an average-sized plant, adjusting for size and environmental conditions.

Light

Cape Jewels thrive in bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for these plants is one where they can receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Avoid placing them in full, intense afternoon sun, which can scorch their delicate flowers and foliage.

Temperature

Cape Jewels prefer moderate temperatures and perform best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 70°F. They can withstand a minimum temperature of about 50°F and a maximum of around 80°F. It's crucial to protect these plants from frost, as they are not frost-tolerant and can be damaged or killed by freezing temperatures.

Pruning

Prune Cape Jewels to encourage bushier growth and more blooms, and to remove any dead or faded flowers and foliage. Pruning is best done after a flush of blooms has faded, which can happen several times throughout the growing season. Lightly trim back the stems to just above a set of healthy leaves to promote a new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Nemesia, commonly known as the 'Cape Jewels' or 'Fleuron', thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with compost or peat moss to retain some moisture. A balanced, loamy potting mix with perlite or sand added for improved drainage is ideal. The pH level for Nemesia should be slightly acidic to neutral, in the range of 5.5 to 7.0.

Repotting

Nemesia 'Fleuron' does not generally require frequent repotting and can often be treated as an annual. However, if you are growing it as a perennial, repot it every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container, preferably in the spring.

Humidity & Misting

Nemesia 'Fleuron' prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Aiming for around 50-60% relative humidity is ideal for these plants.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in a sunny spot, shelter with mulch, water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Nemesia 'Fleuron', commonly known as Nemesia, begins with seed germination, occurring in warm, moist soil conditions with adequate light. After germination, the seedlings establish a root system and produce their first pair of true leaves, following the cotyledons. The vegetative stage follows, during which the plant develops a bushy structure with multiple stems, leaves, and an extensive root system. During the flowering stage, Nemesia 'Fleuron' produces vibrant blooms, which can be various colors like blue, purple, pink, or white, depending on the cultivar. After pollination, the plant produces fruits that contain seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Lastly, as an annual or sometimes short-lived perennial in favorable climates, the plant will eventually senesce and die, with the seeds left behind to start the next generation.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Nemesia Melanie, commonly known as Nemesia, is often propagated through seed. The best time to sow Nemesia seeds is in late winter to early spring, within a temperature range of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). To propagate by seed, fill a tray with a seed starting mix and gently press the tiny seeds into the soil without covering them, as they need light to germinate. Then, water lightly and maintain consistent moisture without over-saturating the soil. Covering the tray with clear plastic can help retain humidity until germination, which typically occurs in 7 to 14 days. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and later moved outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.