Senetti is quickly becoming one of my favorite plants as it stays green all year round and has bright fluorescent flowers. Senetti will flower in winter, spring and fall and will have green leaves all year round. These plants will grow a full coverage of bright flowers which will last for 2-3 weeks.
These flowers can be trimmed back and you will get another coverage of flowers in 3 weeks time.
Senetti might be one of the showiest flowering plants in late winter with the option of hot pink, bright purple and even blues. I have recently added senetti to my garden and quickly discovered that there are some secrets to successfully growing this plant.
Senetti or Pericallis cruentus comes in a range of colors and I have gone for Magenta Delight. After planting two senetti in the same raised garden bed I quickly discovered the important of perfect positioning and what you must to prevent it drooping.
This article will explore how you can keep your senetti happy and green all year round and encourage a good coverage of flowers. Here are my top tips to successfully growing your perennial senetti.
How to grow a healthy perennial senetti
Here are my top tips to grow a healthy senetti that stays green, has a bright coverage of flowers and will look great in your garden.
Plant in afternoon shade
Senetti will thrive in afternoon shade so make sure you think about where you are going to put this plant. This was the first lesson I learnt with senetti as I planted one in a raise garden bed that got afternoon sun. After a few days it had drooped and struggled to settle in.
Senetti will flower brightly with morning sunlight but protection from the hot afternoon rays. Senetti will be available from nurseries in spring but if they go straight into afternoon sun it can be too warm and cause your senetti to droop.
I have since moved my senetti to a place in the front of my garden which gets afternoon shade. It is growing happily next to some clivias which famously love a shaded spot. This shows how much shade these plants actually need.
I have left one senetti in my raised garden bed as the end it is planted in is more protected. This plant is not drooping and was happily transferred to this new space straight from the nursery.
Feed senetti regularly
Senetti will grow well if they are fed more regularly than your usual perennial flowering shrub. These plants grow large displays of flowers but to keep up this growth they will need plenty of food.
A general all purpose liquid plant food given every 4 weeks over spring and summer will help it stay green and will regrow flowers every 3-4 weeks. Producing a large amount of flowers takes a lot of energy and will quickly eat up the nutrients absorbed by the plant.
I also like to add a handful of pelleted chicken manure 2-3 times over spring to maintain the green leaves on the plant. This is a slower release fertilizer that will gently feed the senetti nitrogen alongside a range of other nutrients. It can also be added again in fall.
Keep senetti out of the wind
Wind can dry out the senetti quickly and damage the leaves and flowers.
Senetti will struggle to grow well if they are exposed to warm or dry wind. Windy weather can quickly dry a senetti plant and it will suffer and droop quickly. Senetti need protection so plant them near other shrubs or near a garden wall to protect them from the wind.
Senetti make the perfect partner to a mixed plant display that is made up of shade loving plants, citrus, other flowering shrubs or as a feature potted plant.
Keep senetti watered well
Senetti need regular water and will suffer if they experience long dry periods. Watch out for dry soil over summer and top them up with water if there is low rainfall in your area. I will check all of my plants regularly in summer and top up once or twice a week with water in the morning.
Water senetti near the roots in the morning to keep them happy on a warm day. You may see temporary drooping of their leaves but this will quickly pick up after the weather cools at night.
Understanding Perennial Senetti
Botanical Profile
Senetti is a hybrid of the Compositae and Asteraceae families and was formerly known as a cineraria hybrid. It is a colorful perennial plant that produces a large amount of flowers, which takes a lot of energy and nutrients. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. The leaves of Senetti are green and toothed, and the flowers come in shades of blue, pink, and purple.
Growth Habit
Senetti is a fast-growing plant that requires regular watering to thrive. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Senetti is a sun-loving plant and requires full sun exposure for at least 6 hours a day. It can be grown in containers or in the ground and is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and mass plantings.
Preferred Climate
Senetti is a hardy plant that can withstand cold temperatures, but it prefers a mild climate. It can be grown all year round in areas with mild winters, but in areas with harsh winters, it may need to be grown as an annual. Senetti prefers a temperature range of 50-70°F and can tolerate temperatures as low as 32°F. It is important to note that Senetti is not drought-tolerant and requires regular watering to prevent wilting and stress.
In conclusion, Senetti is a beautiful and hardy perennial plant that can be grown all year round in areas with mild winters. It requires regular watering, full sun exposure, and well-draining soil to thrive. By understanding its botanical profile, growth habit, and preferred climate, you can grow healthy and vibrant Senetti plants in your garden.
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
When it comes to growing perennial Senetti, selecting the right location and preparing the soil are crucial steps for ensuring a healthy and thriving plant. In this section, we will discuss the key factors you need to consider for site selection and soil preparation.
Choosing the Right Location
Choosing the right location for your Senetti plant is essential for its growth and development. Senetti plants require abundant sunshine, so it’s important to select a location that receives full sun for at least six hours a day. Additionally, Senetti plants prefer well-drained soil, so avoid planting them in areas that are prone to waterlogging.
Soil Requirements
Senetti plants prefer soil that is rich in organic matter and well-drained. Before planting, test your soil to determine its pH level. Senetti plants prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can lower the pH by adding organic matter such as peat moss, compost, or well-rotted manure.
Amending Soil
If your soil is poor in quality, amending it with organic matter can help improve its texture and fertility. Organic matter can also help improve soil drainage and water retention. Before planting, add a layer of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to the soil and mix it in thoroughly. This will help improve soil structure and provide the necessary nutrients for your Senetti plant to thrive.
By carefully selecting the right location and preparing the soil, you can ensure your Senetti plant grows healthy and strong all year round.
Planting Senetti
When to Plant
Senetti plants can be planted at any time of the year, but it is best to plant them in the spring or fall. Planting in the spring will give the plant enough time to establish itself before the hot summer months, while planting in the fall will give the plant enough time to establish itself before the cold winter months.
Planting Guidelines
When planting Senetti, it is important to choose a location that receives full sun or partial shade. Senetti prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.6. You can achieve this by using a peat-based compost.
To plant Senetti, follow these simple guidelines:
- Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and adding compost if necessary.
- Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball.
- Place the Senetti plant in the hole and backfill with soil.
- Water the plant thoroughly.
It is important not to plant Senetti too deeply. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil surface. Overwatering or underwatering can also cause problems, so make sure to water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
By following these planting guidelines, you can ensure that your Senetti plant will thrive and produce beautiful blooms all year round.
Watering and Feeding
Watering Schedule
Senetti plants require regular watering to keep them healthy and thriving. It is recommended that you water your Senetti plants at least once every 7-10 days or whenever the top 2-3 inches of soil feels dry to the touch. During the warmer months when the plant is actively growing, you may need to increase watering frequency to every 7 days.
It is important to avoid overwatering your Senetti plants as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Make sure that the soil is well-draining and that the water is able to flow through the soil easily.
Fertilization Needs
Senetti plants are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to keep them healthy and blooming all year round. You should feed your Senetti plants more regularly than your usual perennial flowering shrub to keep up their growth.
Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer to provide your Senetti plants with a constant supply of nutrients.
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying fertilizer to your Senetti plants. Over-fertilization can lead to burnt leaves and stunted growth. Apply fertilizer once every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
By following a regular watering and fertilization schedule, you can ensure that your Senetti plants remain healthy and blooming all year round.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning Techniques
Pruning is an essential process in maintaining the health and beauty of your Senetti plant. Prune your Senetti regularly to keep it in good shape. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to make precise cuts without damaging the plant. Cut back the plant by one-third to one-half in the early spring to encourage new growth. Prune the plant again in late summer after the first flush of flowers to promote a second bloom.
Deadheading
Deadheading is the process of removing dead flowers from the plant to encourage new growth. Senetti will grow a huge coverage of flowers with even up to 100 individual flowers covering a small bush. Deadheading senetti after the first flush of flowers will refresh the bush and allow it replace the flowers. Trim the flowers down to the leaf level and water the plant well. Faded flowers should be cut to around 6 inches. And what’s more, the flower also has a unique ability to rebloom.
Winter Care
Senetti is a perennial plant that can survive the winter if you take proper care of it. In the fall, cut back the plant by one-third to one-half to prepare it for the winter. Cover the plant with a layer of mulch to protect it from the cold. Water the plant well before the first frost to help it survive the winter. In the spring, remove the mulch and prune the plant to promote new growth.
In summary, pruning and maintenance are essential to keep your Senetti plant healthy and beautiful all year round. Prune your plant regularly to promote new growth and remove dead flowers to encourage reblooming. Take proper care of your plant in the winter to help it survive the cold. With proper care, your Senetti plant will thrive and bring joy to your garden for years to come.
Propagation Methods
Senetti can be propagated by both seed and cuttings. Here are the two methods you can use to propagate your Senetti plants:
Seed Propagation
Propagating Senetti from seed is the fastest and least expensive way to grow large quantities of young plants. To propagate Senetti from seed, you can follow these steps:
- Sow the seeds in a seed tray or individual pots filled with compost.
- Cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost and water them.
- Place the tray or pots in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.
- Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged.
- Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots.
- When the seedlings are well-established, transplant them into their final position in the garden.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagating Senetti from cuttings is another option. Here are the steps you can follow:
- Take cuttings from non-flowering shoots in the spring or early summer.
- Cut the stem just below a node and remove any lower leaves.
- Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder.
- Insert the cutting into a pot filled with compost.
- Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment.
- Place the pot in a bright, warm location but avoid direct sunlight.
- Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged.
- Once the cuttings have rooted, transplant them into individual pots.
- When the plants are well-established, transplant them into their final position in the garden.
By following these propagation methods, you can easily grow Senetti plants all year round.
Pest and Disease Management
Common Pests
Senetti plants are generally pest-resistant, but they can still fall prey to some common pests. Here are some of the most common pests that can attack Senetti plants and how to manage them:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can appear in large numbers and suck the sap from the leaves and stems of your plants. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or by applying insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These pests are common in dry environments and can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. You can control spider mites by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These tiny insects can cause the leaves to curl and turn brown. You can control thrips by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Disease Prevention
Senetti plants are susceptible to some common diseases, but you can prevent them by following these tips:
- Watering: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to your plants. Make sure to water your Senetti plants only when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fungal Infections: Senetti plants can be susceptible to fungal infections, especially in humid environments. To prevent fungal infections, make sure to provide good air circulation around your plants and avoid getting water on the leaves.
- Viral Infections: Viral infections can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections, so prevention is key. Make sure to keep your plants healthy and avoid introducing infected plants into your garden.
By following these tips, you can keep your Senetti plants healthy and free from pests and diseases.
Seasonal Care
Spring Care
In the spring, Senetti plants should be fertilized with a general all-purpose liquid plant food every 4 weeks to help them stay green and regrow flowers every 3-4 weeks. Deadheading the plant will prolong its flowering period throughout the summer.
Faded flowers should be cut to around 6 inches. Senetti plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.6, so using a peat-based compost is ideal.
Summer Care
During the summer, Senetti plants require regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. You should also continue to fertilize the plant with a general all-purpose liquid plant food every 4 weeks. Deadheading should be done regularly to prolong the flowering period. Senetti plants thrive in full sun but can also tolerate some shade.
Autumn Care
In the autumn, Senetti plants will start to slow down their growth and flowering. You should continue to deadhead the plant regularly to prolong the flowering period. As the weather starts to cool, you should reduce the frequency of watering to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. Senetti plants can be both perennial and annual, depending on the climate and care they receive.
Winter Protection
In colder climates, Senetti plants will require some winter protection to survive. You should cut back the plant to around 6 inches above the soil level and cover it with a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.
Alternatively, you can dig up the plant and store it in a cool, dry place until the following spring. Senetti plants can be hardy if cared for properly and can withstand a significant amount of cold. Understanding the hardiness and care requirements of Senetti plants is essential for ensuring they thrive in your garden.
Overall, Senetti plants are easy to care for and can provide a beautiful display of flowers all year round with the proper care and attention.
How to grow Perennial Senetti | Summary
Senetti are a beautiful perennial shrub that will brighten up your yard. My top tips are to make sure it has afternoons shade, water it well when you first plant it out and over summer and top it up with some organic slow release fertilizer in spring and fall.
Senetti might be one of the brightest flowers you can plant in your garden so give it a go for a flashy show plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do senetti plants come back every year?
Senetti are a perennial shrub that will grow green throughout the year and will bounce back with flowers in winter, spring and fall. Senetti will have a brief period of dormancy or low flower production over the heat of summer but will burst back with new blooms in fall.
Is senetti an annual or perennial?
Senetti are annual flowering shrubs with a bright display of daisy-like flowers. They are certainly not as drought tolerant as an African daisy but have bright vibrant blooms that will cover the whole bush. Try these out if you have a spot in your garden that could benefit from a bright addition of color.
How long do senetti plants last?
Senetti plants will last as long as they are fertilized, well-watered and pruned back after flowering. These plants are perennial so will keep growing year to year. You will not need to replace them each year like pansies so they are fantastic value.
When choosing flowering shrubs I like to choose a range of plants for my garden that flower at different times of the year. That means I will always have something bright and colorful to look at. Senetti offer flowers over spring, winter and fall in sub-tropical areas so are the perfect addition to my garden.
Does senetti flower all summer?
Senetti can flower in early summer in mild areas but will stop flowering when the weather is at its warmest. There will be a brief break in flowering for this plant over summer but when the weather cools in fall you will see another burst of flowers on your plant.
Trim off the last flowers in summer to keep the plant neat and tidy. It will then be ready to grow new flowers at the start of fall.
What are the best practices for Senetti plant care to ensure year-round growth?
To ensure year-round growth of Senetti plants, it is important to provide them with well-draining soil. Senetti plants require moist soil, but not waterlogged soil. It is also important to keep the plants in a partially sunny location, as they do not thrive in full sun. Senetti plants need regular watering, especially during dry periods, and should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
How do you ensure Senetti blooms throughout the summer season?
To ensure Senetti blooms throughout the summer season, it is important to deadhead the flowers regularly. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Senetti plants also require regular watering and fertilization to ensure healthy growth and blooming.
What steps should be taken to protect Senetti during winter months?
During winter months, it is important to protect Senetti plants from frost and freezing temperatures. Senetti plants are not frost-tolerant and should be moved indoors or covered with a frost cloth during cold weather. It is also important to reduce watering during winter months, as overwatering can cause root rot.
Can Senetti pericallis be expected to return annually with proper care?
Yes, with proper care, Senetti pericallis can be expected to return annually. However, it is important to note that Senetti plants are not frost-tolerant and require protection from cold weather during winter months.
What temperature range is ideal for Senetti plants to thrive?
Senetti plants thrive in temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). They do not tolerate temperatures below 40°F (4°C) or above 80°F (27°C).
Is it advisable to grow Senetti in full sun, and if not, what conditions are preferred?
It is not advisable to grow Senetti in full sun, as they prefer a partially sunny location. Senetti plants require moist soil, but not waterlogged soil, and should be protected from strong winds. They also require regular watering and fertilization to ensure healthy growth and blooming.
I am an accredited practicing dietitian, experienced gardener and a dedicated cook. I love writing and sharing my experience so you can learn from my successes and mistakes.