Portulaca Happy Hours Peppermint - 5 Seed Pellets

Portulaca, commonly known as moss rose or purslane, is a hardy, drought-tolerant flowering plant that thrives in hot and sunny conditions. It’s a popular choice for gardens and containers due to its bright, vibrant blooms and ease of care. Here’s how to grow portulaca successfully

Choosing the Right Conditions

Portulaca loves full sun. Ensure it gets at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming.

It thrives in warm weather and is highly heat tolerant.

Sandy, well-draining soil is ideal. Avoid heavy, clayey soils that retain water.

Planting

Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or sow them directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

Sprinkle seeds on the soil surface and press them gently (do not cover, as they need light to germinate).

Keep the soil slightly moist until germination, which typically occurs within 10–14 days.

Seedlings or Cuttings

If using transplants or cuttings, space them about 18 - 30 cm apart.

Ensure the soil is warm and dry for best results.

Watering

Water sparingly, as portulaca is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions.

Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.

Fertilizing

Use a light application of a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Over-fertilizing can reduce blooming, so use sparingly.

Maintenance

Remove spent blooms to encourage new flowers, though portulaca often self-cleans.

Trim back leggy growth to maintain a compact shape.

Generally, pest-free, but watch for aphids or fungal diseases in overly moist conditions.

Growing in Containers

Use pots with good drainage.

Combine portulaca with other drought-tolerant plants for stunning container displays.

Seasonal Care

Portulaca is an annual in most climates but may reseed itself for the next growing season.

In frost-free zones, it can act as a perennial.

With minimal effort, portulaca can provide a colourful, low-maintenance addition to your garden or landscape!