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Calceolaria Houseplants - Slipperwort, Slipper Flower, Pouch Flower.

Slipper Flower - Calceolaria

Calceolarias prefer a cool growing climate something similar to that of us humans so that makes it an ideal houseplant! It can also provide a splash of colour in outdoor containers - such as patio tubs and window boxes; giving a splash of colour before the main summer bedding plants are in bloom.

Calceolaria, Slipperwort, or Pocketbook flower was always one of my favourite plants to use when I was employed as a floral decorator in a major London parks and gardens department. They brightened up many offices and the staff within with the wide range of flower colours set against the hairy light green foliage. The fact that they normally flower in the late spring or early summer was also an added bonus, in that they followed on from Cineraria and Cyclamen plants.



How to Look after Calceolarias

Slipper flowers study the blooms and you will soon see why so called are not very demanding when used as houseplants. Regular watering, cool place to grow and away from direct sunlight being the main needs. They are normally bought when in flower, so choice of the wide range of flower colour is easy. Basically, what you see is what you get.

They have a long flowering period, and hold their blooms well for many weeks months even. Your plant will have been well fed at the growing nursery, so feeding should be restricted to a weak general plant food every 2 weeks. It is important not to over-feed, for if so, you can soon lose the flowers.

Watering

Watering should be regular or you will soon see the plants droop and wilt. However, do not be tempted to stand the pot in water. The root system does not like to be permanently wet and will soon develop fungal disease and die off taking the plant with it! Calceolarias revive considerably well if accidentally allowed to dry out!

Calceolarias are not everlasting. They are grown as biennials which will start to die off once flowering is completed. They should not be confused with the hardy and alpine Calceolarias which are generally perennial.

A moist atmosphere is appreciated, so standing your pot plant in a saucer filled with pebbles to give a little extra humidity is a good move.

Problems with Calceolarias indoors

The large hairy leaves of the pocket flowers can provide a good home and feeding place for the normal sap sucking indoor pets such as red spider mine and aphids. Inspect under the dense rosette of foliage on a weekly basis to better see any pests and treat.

Grow in a well ventilated position, and there should be no problem from the main disease, which grey mould visible on the short stems.

Propagation of Calceolaria

Many different types are available as seeds, with gaudy colour mixes being the norm.

Sow seed in a peat based compost in late summer, and grow the young seedling on through until late autumn. You will need a slightly heated greenhouse to do this rather than an indoor room. The plants soon develop the rosette of foliage and will need space.

The indoor Calceolaria hybrids C. Herbeohybrids cannot be easily propagated from cuttings. Seed is by far the best way.

A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Calceolaria Houseplants from Seed

Calceolaria, also known as Lady's Purse or Slipper Flower, is a visually striking and unique houseplant. It is renowned for its vibrant, pouch-like flowers that set it apart from typical houseplants. Growing Calceolaria from seed can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to nurture this plant from its earliest stages to full bloom.

Ideal Growing Conditions for Calceolaria

The first step in successfully growing Calceolaria is understanding its preferred growing conditions. Calceolaria prefers bright, but indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so a north or east-facing window is ideal.

As for temperature, Calceolaria thrives in cool environments, around 60-75°F (15-24°C). Humidity should be moderate, and the soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A potting mix designed for African violets works well.

Preparing the Seeds for Planting

To prepare the seeds for planting, place them in a sealed plastic bag with a moistened piece of kitchen paper and refrigerate for about three weeks. This process, called stratification, helps to break seed dormancy and promote germination.

Planting Method and Care

When you're ready to plant, fill a seed tray with your chosen potting mix and lightly press the seeds into the surface – they need light to germinate. Cover the tray with plastic wrap to maintain humidity and place it in a warm, brightly lit location.

Water the seeds gently, using a spray bottle to avoid dislodging them. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Seedlings should emerge in 2-3 weeks. Once they're large enough to handle, carefully transplant them into individual pots. Keep them in a brightly lit, cool location, and water regularly, ensuring the soil never dries out completely.

Ongoing Care

Calceolaria plants benefit from regular pruning to maintain their shape and promote flowering. Remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flowers regularly. Feed your Calceolaria every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and spider mites. If you notice any, treat your plant immediately with a suitable insecticidal soap.

In conclusion, growing Calceolaria from seed requires a bit of patience and care, but the reward of those unique, vibrant flowers is well worth the effort. With the right conditions and care, your Calceolaria will thrive, bringing a touch of exotic beauty to your home.

Growing Calceolaria, also known as pouch flowers or pocketbook plants, from seed can be a rewarding experience. Here is a detailed step-by-step guide based on various sources:

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Seeds Calceolaria seeds require light for germination. To prepare them for planting, place them in a sealed plastic bag with a moistened piece of kitchen paper and refrigerate for about three weeks. This process, called stratification, helps to break seed dormancy and promote germination.
  2. Step 2: Choose the Right Soil Choose a well-drained compost or fine peat for sowing your Calceolaria seeds. The soil should be rich in organic matter. A potting mix designed for African violets works well.
  3. Step 3: Sow the Seeds Sow the seeds on the surface of the prepared soil. They should not be covered as they need light to germinate. If you're using peat pellets, cover the seeds with a thin layer of peat (about 2mm).
  4. Step 4: Maintain Proper Conditions Place the seeded tray in a warm, brightly lit location. Cover the tray with plastic wrap or put the plastic pot in a ziplock bag to maintain humidity. Water the seeds gently, using a spray bottle to avoid dislodging them. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Step 5: Transplant Seedlings Seedlings should emerge in 2-3 weeks. Once they're large enough to handle, carefully transplant them into individual pots with drainage holes. Avoid watering over the crown of the plant because it may rot.
  6. Step 6: Ongoing Care Keep your Calceolaria in full sun (at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun) or part shade outdoors. Pruning isn't essential, but you could cut faded flower stems to keep the plant looking good and stimulate reblooming. Feed your Calceolaria every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

Remember, patience and care are crucial when growing Calceolaria from seed. With these steps, you will be able to nurture this unique and vibrant plant from its earliest stages to full bloom.






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