Edging Lobelia Lobelia erinus Super Star = 'Weslosu' (PBR) (Star Series)

Water

Lobelia, commonly known as edging lobelia or garden lobelia, should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During active growth in spring and summer, watering might be needed once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions. It is best to water deeply, providing about 1 to 2 gallons per square yard every week, allowing for adjustments based on rainfall and temperature. Ensure the plant has good drainage to prevent root rot. In winter, reduce watering since the plant requires less moisture during this dormant period.

Light

For edging lobelia, the best light conditions include full sun to part shade. An ideal spot would be one that gets bright, indirect light for most of the day, with some protection from the intense midday sun, especially in hotter climates. A location with morning sunlight and afternoon shade is often suitable for vibrant growth and bloom production.

Temperature

Edging lobelia thrives in moderate temperatures and prefers a range of 60°F to 75°F for ideal growth conditions. It can tolerate a minimum temperature down to 40°F and maximum up to around 90°F; however, prolonged exposure outside of the ideal range may stress the plant. During extreme heat, providing afternoon shade can help in maintaining suitable temperature conditions.

Pruning

Pruning edging lobelia is important to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Regularly deadhead spent blooms and trim back any leggy stems. This can be done every few weeks during the flowering season. The best time for a major trim is midsummer when plants can become sparse; cutting them back by half can stimulate new growth and a fresh flush of blooms.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Lobelia, commonly known as Edging Lobelia, thrives in a well-drained, moist soil rich in organic matter. A good soil mix for Edging Lobelia would be equal parts peat, loam, and sand to ensure good drainage and fertility. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Edging Lobelia should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. It's best to repot in the spring before the onset of the growing season when the plant is not in full bloom.

Humidity & Misting

Edging Lobelia prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 50-70%. Consistently high humidity promotes lush growth and vibrant blooms, but good air circulation is also necessary to prevent disease.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light, moist soil, and cool temperatures for indoor Edging Lobelia.

• Outdoor

  Place in partial shade, use moist, well-draining soil for outdoor Edging Lobelia.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Lobelia erinus Super Star, commonly known as the Edging Lobelia, begins with seed germination which occurs in warm, well-drained soil conditions with consistent moisture. This is followed by the seedling stage where the first true leaves develop and the plant starts photosynthesizing to fuel its growth. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it produces a profusion of foliage and prepares for the flowering stage, during which the Lobelia erinus Super Star displays a vibrant array of star-shaped flowers that can attract pollinators. Following the peak flowering period, the plant sets seeds which can be dispersed to produce new plants, continuing the cycle. As an annual in many climates, the Lobelia erinus Super Star completes its life cycle within one growing season and dies off with the onset of the first frost, though in milder climates or with protection, it may behave as a perennial.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Lobelia erinus, commonly known as edging lobelia, is often propagated through seed sowing. The most popular method is to start the seeds indoors about 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date to allow them to grow into strong seedlings ready for transplanting once the danger of frost has passed. To propagate edging lobelia by seeds, prepare a tray with well-draining seed starting mix, sprinkle the tiny seeds on the surface, and gently press them into the soil without covering them, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged and maintain a temperature around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius). Germination typically occurs within 14 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be thinned out or transplanted into individual pots to grow on until they are ready to be moved outdoors.