Strawflowers ( Helichrysum bracteatum) offer papery blooms with lasting color. Growing them in containers allows for easy placement.
Selecting Containers and Soil
Choose the right container. Ideal containers are 8-12 inches for single plants; larger ones hold multiple. Container material influences moisture: terracotta breathes, plastic retains. Drainage holes prevent waterlogging.
Strawflowers need well-draining, high-quality potting mix. Garden soil is too dense, restricting root growth and drainage. Commercial potting mix provides aeration and nutrients. For drainage, incorporate perlite or coarse sand.
Planting Strawflowers
Planting strawflower seedlings or young plants is straightforward. Fill container with potting mix, leaving one inch from rim. Gently remove plant from nursery pot, supporting root ball. Place plant in center, ensuring root ball top is level with soil.
Backfill with potting mix, firming around plant’s base. For multiple strawflowers, space 6-8 inches apart for air circulation and growth. Water thoroughly until drainage occurs; this settles soil and hydrates plant.
Ongoing Care for Container Strawflowers
Strawflowers require consistent attention. They need full sun (six to eight hours daily) for robust growth and flowering; place containers in a sunny location for optimal development.
Container plants need more frequent watering than ground plants, as soil dries quickly. Check soil moisture regularly; water deeply when top inch feels dry, ensuring drainage. Avoid overwatering, which causes root rot.
Fertilize regularly, as nutrients leach rapidly. Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks during growing season for continuous blooming. Dilute fertilizer per instructions to prevent nutrient burn.
Regular deadheading (removing spent blooms) encourages more flowers. Pinching back young plants promotes bushier growth and prevents legginess by encouraging more side shoots and flower buds.
Harvesting and Preserving Strawflowers
Harvest at the correct stage for drying. Cut blooms when just beginning to open, before yellow center is visible. Bracts are tightly closed, retaining shape and color during drying. Cut stems cleanly.
To dry, gather stems into small bunches (5-7). Secure with rubber band or string. Hang bunches upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for air circulation and to prevent mold.
Drying takes 2-4 weeks, depending on humidity and air circulation. Once dry, flowers feel stiff and papery. Dried strawflowers are versatile for crafts, floral arrangements, or as decorative elements.
Troubleshooting Container Strawflower Issues
Strawflowers can exhibit issues often resolved with minor care adjustments. Leggy growth or reduced blooms indicate insufficient light or lack of pinching. Relocating to a sunnier spot or regularly pinching back plants encourages compact growth and increased flowering.
Yellowing leaves signal overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture before watering; ensure adequate drainage. If not overwatered, a balanced liquid fertilizer can address nutrient shortfalls.
While generally robust, strawflowers can attract common pests like aphids or spider mites. A strong water spray can dislodge many pests. For persistent infestations, insecticidal soap can manage the problem.