Ragged robin 'Petite Jenny' Lychnis flos-cuculi 'Petite Jenny' (d)

Water

Ragged Robin 'Petite Jenny' prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil, so water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This usually means watering approximately once a week, with about 1 gallon of water per plant, depending on climate conditions. It's important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. During hot summer months, you may need to water more frequently, whereas in cooler temperatures or rainy weather, you can water less often. The goal is to maintain even moisture without waterlogging the soil.

Light

Ragged Robin 'Petite Jenny' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, they should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, though a spot that offers protection from the intense heat of the afternoon sun is beneficial. If planted in too much shade, the plant may produce fewer flowers and become leggy as it stretches towards the light.

Temperature

Ragged Robin 'Petite Jenny' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but performs best in conditions between 60°F and 70°F. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F and can handle up to around 85°F without stress. It's crucial to protect it from hard freezes and excessively high temperatures to maintain vibrant health and optimum flowering.

Pruning

Prune Ragged Robin 'Petite Jenny' to remove spent flowers and encourage bushier growth, as well as to maintain a neat appearance. Deadheading, or removing old blooms, should be done regularly throughout the blooming season to promote continuous flowering. The best time for more extensive pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. During this time, cut the plant back by about a third to rejuvenate it and produce denser foliage.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Ragged Robin 'Petite Jenny' prefers moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, peat, and perlite would provide an ideal growing medium.

Repotting

Ragged Robin 'Petite Jenny' should be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish nutrients and prevent root bounding.

Humidity & Misting

Ragged Robin 'Petite Jenny' thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels but is adaptable to various humidity conditions in an outdoor environment.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, moist soil, and good airflow for indoor Ragged Robins.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, mulch well, and ensure soil drainage.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

'Petite Jenny' (Lychnis flos-cuculi) starts its life cycle as a seed that requires stratification or a period of cold to germinate effectively. Upon germination in early spring, the seedling grows rapidly and develops into a rosette of lance-shaped leaves at the base. As temperatures rise, it sends up flowering stems, typically in late spring to early summer, showcasing clustered, frilly, pink flowers attractive to pollinators. After flowering, it sets seed, which can self-sow if the conditions are right, contributing to the plant's spread and continuation of the species. In the fall, the above-ground parts begin to die back as the plant enters dormancy over winter, surviving with its perennial root system. The cycle resumes in spring when new growth emerges from the overwintered roots to start the process anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The Ragged Robin 'Petite Jenny' can be propagated by seed or by division, with division being the most popular method. This perennial is often divided in either spring or autumn. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of the plant out of the ground using a garden fork, ensuring to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. Gently separate the clump into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy root system. Replant the divisions immediately, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (approximately 30 to 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water them well after planting to help establish the new divisions. This method of propagation not only helps to rejuvenate older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous, but also provides an easy way to multiply your Ragged Robins.