Nemesia Flowers: A Guide for Beginners
Introduction
Nemesia flowers are small, showy plants that make excellent bedding plants. They are typically grown as annuals, but can be perennials in warmer climates. Nemesias add colorful swaths of flowers to gardens in late spring and can be used as groundcovers or edging in larger beds.
Different Kinds of Nemesia
Nemesia flowers come in a wide variety of colors, including pink, purple, blue, and white. Some plants can reach up to 2 feet tall, while others are no taller than 6 inches. Their diminutive size makes their blooms appear larger, and they are often so dense that the foliage is nearly hidden.
Newer varieties of nemesia are more heat tolerant and have a pleasant fragrance. Some even have hard-to-find blue flowers. Here are a few popular varieties to look for:
- Berries and Cream: Blue and white flowers
- Blueberry Ripple: Deep purple flowers
- Lilacberry Ripple: Purple to violet blooms
- Strawberry Ripple: Red to strawberry pink blossoms
- Aromatica True Blue: Fragrant, soft blue flowers
- Lemon Mist: Purple and white flowers edged in yellow
- Sunsatia Pear: White flowers splashed with orange and frost tolerant
Planting Nemesia Flowers
Nemesia flowers grow best in full sun, but they can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates. When planting nemesia, choose a location with well-draining soil. Nemesias are prone to stem rot if the soil is too wet.
You can grow nemesia from seed or purchase plants from a garden center or nursery. If you are starting from seed, sow the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
When planting nemesia, space the plants 6-12 inches apart. Avoid disturbing the roots when planting, and lightly spread them out before placing the plant in the hole. Water the plants deeply after planting.
Care and Maintenance
Nemesia flowers are relatively low-maintenance plants. They need regular watering, especially during hot weather. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to stem rot.
Fertilize nemesia plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
Pruning
Older nemesia plant types may benefit from pruning in the summer. This will encourage a new flush of blooms that will last until frost.
Companion Planting
Nemesia flowers look great when planted with other annuals, such as pansies, violas, and alyssum. They can also be used as a filler plant in containers or hanging baskets.
Conclusion
Nemesia flowers are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With their wide variety of colors and heat tolerance, nemesias are sure to add a splash of color to your garden all season long.
