Azalea, cineraria, primrose and ranunculus are cool-loving,
indoor, decorative flowering plants that generally are available from garden
centers and florists in winter and early spring. They do best on a very
bright north or east windowsill with some direct morning sun, and must
be kept cool to maintain longevity. Only temperatures that approach freezing
are too cold. In fact, extended time above 60 degrees Fahrenheit will shorten
their lifespan. You can use these plants as a centerpiece or to accentuate
a room, but you must return them to the windowsill for the night.
In addition to cool, bright conditions, this group of plants requires
a consistent moisture level. They don't tolerate extremely dry or extremely
wet conditions. Let the soil surface begin to dry out before watering,
then water thoroughly so that the saucer contains water. After a fifteen-minute
soak, empty the saucer.
Regularly remove spent blooms and yellowing lower leaves. Because of
the dense foliage and the moist conditions the plants require, some mold
may occur.
Azaleas and cinerarias will bloom heavily for about one month. English
primroses -- other than the obconica and malacoides types -- can be grown
indoors until April. Then it's best to plant them in a shady garden spot
where they can be enjoyed as a perennial. Ranunculus is the most temperamental
of the group and usually lasts only a week or two.
© Colorado State University Cooperative Extension,
Denver Botanic Gardens, and Green Industries of Colorado, Inc. 1998, 1999.
CINERARIA
Cinerarias appear as small, brightly and unusually colored daisy
plants. Blooms are long-lived, provided the soil is kept moist and temperatures
on the cool side. Evening temperatures of 45-50 degrees F. and day temperatures
of 60-65 degrees F. are ideal.
Cinerarias are grown as an annual and should not be looked at as a houseplant.
Once plants are finished blooming, discard.
Please read the Copyright
Information.
Cineraria Varieties
