Florist's Cineraria Pericallis × hybrida Senetti Magenta Bicolor = 'Sunsenereba' (PBR) (Senetti Series)

Water

The Senetti plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Typically, watering once or twice a week should suffice, but this will depend on the climate and indoor conditions. The method involves watering the soil directly rather than the leaves to avoid fungal diseases. During active growth periods, usually in spring and summer, the plant might need closer to 16-24 ounces of water per week, while in the dormant seasons, water requirements may decrease. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering to ensure the plant is not over-watered.

Light

Senetti plants thrive best in bright, indirect light. Place the plant in a spot where it will receive plenty of light but is shielded from the harsh, direct midday sun, which can scorch the foliage. An east or west-facing window would be ideal, offering the right balance of light throughout the day.

Temperature

Senetti prefers cooler temperatures and will do well in conditions ranging between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to protect the plant from frost, as it can only tolerate temperatures down to about 35 degrees Fahrenheit. For optimal growth, maintain the nighttime temperature around 5 to 10 degrees cooler than the daytime temperature, but not dipping below the minimum threshold.

Pruning

Pruning Senetti plants helps to encourage bushier growth and more abundant flowering. Deadhead spent flowers and prune back leggy stems as needed, which can be done every few weeks during the blooming period. The best time to prune extensively is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Senetti plants thrive in well-draining potting soil with good organic matter content. A mix of loam, peat, and perlite is ideal. Aim for a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Senetti, commonly known as Pericallis, should be repotted annually as they prefer fresh soil. This also allows for checking root health and upsizing if the plant has outgrown its pot.

Humidity & Misting

Senetti plants prefer moderate to high humidity levels. Aim for about 50-60% relative humidity for the best growth conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Senetti in bright, indirect light and avoid cold drafts.

• Outdoor

  Senetti like part shade and protection from harsh sun.

• Hardiness zone

  Senetti are typically suited for USDA zones 9-11.

Life cycle

The Pericallis × hybrida Senetti Magenta Bicolor, commonly known as Senetti, begins its life cycle as a seed germinating in moist, well-draining soil under warm conditions. The germinated seedling develops into a vegetative stage, where it grows leaves and stems vigorously when provided with ample sunlight and water. As it matures, the Senetti enters the flowering stage, producing vibrant magenta and blue bicolored flowers that bloom in the spring to early summer. After pollination, the flowers will fade and the plant focuses energy on producing seeds for the next generation. If the conditions are not favorable for seeding, or gardeners deadhead spent flowers, the plant may undergo a rest period before entering a second bloom cycle later in the growing season. The Senetti is often treated as an annual or biennial, though in suitable climates and with proper care, it can survive as a perennial, repeating its life cycle for several years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Pericallis × hybrida Senetti Magenta Bicolor, commonly known as Senetti, typically involves taking cuttings. This can be done in late summer to fall when the plant is actively growing. A healthy, non-flowering stem is selected, and a cutting approximately 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) long is taken, making sure that it includes at least a couple of leaf nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then inserted into a moist, well-draining potting mix. Providing a warm environment and maintaining high humidity around the cutting can be achieved by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. Roots typically start to form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to normal conditions before potting on.