Cape Jewels Nemesia caerulea 'Sea Mist'

Water

Cape Jewels should be watered regularly, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, it's generally recommended to water about once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before watering again. It is important to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Each watering should thoroughly saturate the soil, which could equate to approximately 1 gallon of water for an outdoor plant or a few ounces for smaller indoor containers, ensuring even moisture distribution throughout the pot.

Light

Cape Jewels thrive best in full sun to partial shade conditions. This means placing them where they can receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but they can also benefit from some afternoon shade in particularly hot climates. An ideal spot would be in an east- or west-facing garden where the morning or late afternoon sun is more gentle, or where light dappled shade is provided during the peak intensity of midday sun.

Temperature

Cape Jewels prefer moderate temperature conditions, thriving at temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost can damage the plant, so protection or moving the plant indoors during cold snaps is necessary. The ideal range for promoting growth and flowering is within that 60 to 75-degree Fahrenheit range without extreme temperature fluctuations.

Pruning

Cape Jewels benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Deadheading spent flowers can stimulate new blooms, while cutting back leggy stems by a third can help maintain a compact form. Pruning is best performed after the plant has completed a flowering cycle. Seasonal pruning should occur in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, aiming to remove any damaged or diseased stems and to shape the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Nemesia, commonly known as Cape Jewels, thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically around 5.5 to 7.0. A mixture of peat, perlite, and general potting compost encourages healthy growth. Regularly amending the soil with organic matter can improve its structure and fertility.

Repotting

Cape Jewels generally don't require frequent repotting and can be repotted every one or two years or when the plant has outgrown its current pot. Spring is the best time to repot to minimize stress on the plant.

Humidity & Misting

Cape Jewels prefer moderate to high humidity levels but are adaptable to a wide range of indoor humidity conditions. Aim for a humidity level around 40-50% for optimal growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow Cape Jewels in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Place Cape Jewels in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Nemesia caerulea 'Sea Mist', commonly known as Nemesia, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in late winter to early spring under proper temperature and moisture conditions. Following germination, seedlings emerge and establish a root system and foliage through the juvenile phase. As the plant matures, it develops stems and leaves in a bushy growth habit, preparing for the flowering stage. Flowering occurs in late spring to summer, showcasing the plant's delicate, misty blue blossoms that attract pollinators. After pollination, the plant may set seed, completing the cycle if seeds are collected or naturally dispersed. As an annual or short-lived perennial in some climates, Nemesia caerulea 'Sea Mist' completes its life cycle within one to a few growing seasons, after which the plant typically dies, but the seeds can ensure its legacy if sown again.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• For Nemesia caerulea 'Sea Mist', commonly known as Nemesia, the most popular method of propagation is through seeds. Propagation through seeds typically begins in late winter to early spring when the threat of frost has passed. Seeds should be sown superficially in a well-draining soil mix and lightly covered with soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seeds require a warm environment to germinate, ideally between 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit (18-21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings usually emerge within 10 to 14 days, and once they are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or planted directly into the garden.