Jobs for March/ April, Transplanting Osteospermums and taking cuttings

Taking cuttings from osteospermums

Gardening well in Spain requires adaptation.

Searing summer heat, torrential autumn rains, fierce spring winds and rock laden soil present a challenging obstacle for all but the most resilient of plants, so the key to success is not to fight the elements, but grow the plants that flourish in these specific conditions.

The neighbours grow Osteospermums because they´re the most resilient, generous spirited plant to fill our springtime with colour, are available in a range of glorious hues and self propagate, minimal effort producing stunning results.

Native to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, these daisy –like plants adapted to rocky outcrops and grassy hillsides, so flower with the rains and lose little water during the summer heat.

We allow them to grow unhindered, deadheading to encourage continuous flowering , then cut back really hard, down to almost a stump, before the temperatures soar. Often we dig them out altogether, save the water, then plant replacements in early autumn, ready for a stunning springtime show.

Now is the ideal time to take stemtip cuttings, preferably first thing in the morning before the plant loses moisture, by selecting strong top growth , about 10 -12 cm long. Cut just below a leaf joint , as this is where growth hormones are most concentrated, and remove lower leaves and flowering buds before inserting 3-4cm deep into a pot of potting compost and watering.

Pots can be placed in a protective plastic bag for a few days, but be careful to keep away from direct sunlight or the plant will literally steam, and take care not to over water and cause rotting. Cuttings root within 3 weeks.

Alternatively, this weekend is the ideal time to rummage around near to existing plants, as small seedlings are commonly found growing away happily on their own. Pot on for autumn planting, and pinch out the top shoot of both cuttings and seedlings to improve the shape of the new plant and stimulate stronger growth.

If you have straggly plants from last year, don´t be afraid to cut them back hard, as they will re-generate remarkably quickly and reward you with strong, flowering growth.

Enjoy your Osteospermums; every Spanish home should have some.