Baby's breath 'Rosenschleier' Gypsophila 'Rosenschleier' (d)

Water

Baby's Breath should be watered deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil dries out slightly between watering. A general rule is to water approximately once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water for each plant. During hot and dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, especially if the plant is in well-draining soil that doesn't retain moisture. It's crucial to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Always check the top inch of the soil for dryness before adding water.

Light

Baby's Breath thrives in full sunlight, meaning it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is an open area where it can bask in unobstructed daylight. If grown indoors, place it near a south-facing window for optimal light exposure.

Temperature

Baby's Breath prefers moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range from about 40°F to 80°F. The ideal temperature for this plant's growth and blooming is between 60°F and 70°F. It can survive light frosts but should be protected from extreme cold or heat.

Pruning

Prune Baby's Breath to encourage bushier growth and to prevent it from becoming leggy. After the first flowering, cut back the plant by one-third to promote a second bloom. Pruning is best done immediately after the first blooming peak, which typically occurs in late spring or early summer.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Baby's breath prefers well-draining soil with a pH range between 6.5 and 7.5. A mixture of loamy soil with added perlite or sand can improve drainage. Organic matter such as compost can also be beneficial for retaining moisture and providing nutrients.

Repotting

Baby's breath doesn't typically require frequent repotting. It should be repotted once it outgrows its current container, which may be every two to three years to refresh the soil and encourage growth.

Humidity & Misting

Baby's breath thrives in average humidity levels. They prefer a drier environment, so there's no need for high humidity. Ambient room humidity is typically sufficient for healthy growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and occasional watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil; water moderately.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Gypsophila 'Rosenschleier', commonly known as Baby's Breath, starts its life cycle from seed germination, which usually takes place in spring, in well-draining soil and under full sunlight. Following germination, the seedlings go through a vegetative stage, developing a dense bush of slender stems and narrow, lance-shaped leaves. Once mature, which may vary from a few months to a year depending on conditions, the plant enters the flowering stage, producing clusters of small, delicate pink flowers that bloom throughout the summer. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers produce small dry fruits (capsules) containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then goes into dormancy during the colder months, although in some climates it can behave as an annual and die back after setting seed. Baby's Breath can also be propagated through cuttings or division in addition to seed, which allows for new plants to continue the life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• Propogation: Baby's Breath 'Rosenschleier' is most commonly propagated by sowing seeds or by division. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by division, which is typically done in the spring as new growth appears. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump and gently separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of the root system attached. These divisions can then be immediately replanted in well-draining soil, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness, as it maintains the characteristics of the parent plant and allows for quick multiplication of the Baby's Breath 'Rosenschleier'.