Pentas are a great choice for apollinator gardenbecause the nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
Pentas Care
These are the primary care requirements for growing pentas.
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Planting
To add pentas to your landscaping, plant them in the spring.
Pentas can also begrown in containers.
They look particularly good when several plants are grouped together in a large container or pot.
Light
Pentas prefer full sun conditions but can be grown in partial shade.
However, if these plants receive less than six hours of light each day, expect reduced flowering activity.
A neutral pH level is ideal but pentas will grow in slightly acidic or slightly alkaline conditions.
Water
When first planted, water pentas regularly.
However, during extended periods of dry weather, water pentas plants.
When watering pentas, be sure to water from the base of the plant rather than overhead.
Excess water on the foliage can cause fungus, especially in the hot, humid climates where pentas thrive.
Temperature and Humidity
Pentas are tropical plants that prefer hot temperatures and high levels of humidity.
These plants are hardy in USDA Zones 10-11.
Apply a liquid fertilizer formula every four to six weeks during the spring and summer.
Each pentas plant produces up to 20 flower clusters, known as corymbs.
Bloom Months
Pentas typically bloom in the spring and summer months.
In USDA Zones 10 and 11, pentas will grow as a perennial and bloom year-round.
What Do Pentas Flowers Look and Smell Like?
But if you notice reduced flower production, it may be that the plant is receiving too little light.
You may need to transplant pentas that are planted in a garden location with insufficient sunlight.
Insufficient nutrients can also stifle flower production.
Common Problems With Pentas
One reason that pentas are so popular is their low-maintenance care requirements.
Still, imbalances in regards to light or water can cause problems for pentas.
To try and remedy the situation, forgo any supplemental watering for the plant.
It may be necessary to dig up the plant and trim away any affected roots.
Amend the soil to improve drainage before replanting.
Another reason thatplant leaves turn yellowis nutrient deficiency.
Pentas prefer soil with a neutral pH but also tolerate slightly acidic soil.
Take steps tomake your soil more acidic.
Pentas are a perennial plant that will return every year in USDA Zones 10 and above.
Pentas prefer full sun growing conditions but they can be grown in partial shade.
If you plant them in partial shade, flower production will be reduced.
Although pentas are frequently planted in garden beds or borders, theyre also suitable for growing in pots.
Pentas will spread as they reach maturity, spanning 2 to 3 feet in width.
