Spigelia marilandica 'Ragin Cajun'

Spring · Outdoors

Add lime to soil

This plant prefers lime in soil. Where soil is neutral or only just alkaline, give a lime dressing in spring, applied as per rates on the packet.

Spring-Autumn · Outdoors

Water to keep the soil moist

For best results, this plant needs soil that is always moist. Water deeply and regularly as soon as soil appears dry. Even for established plants in the ground, a dry week can cause problems with some soils. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather. Or install an automatic irrigation system which will do the hard work for you, even when you are away on holiday.

Without regular watering some plants never fully regain their beauty.

Summer - early · Outdoors

Apply slow release fertiliser

Apply a slow release fertiliser which is spread around the root area of the plants soon after they have come into growth. (Or apply a liquid feed at regular intervals throughout the growing season.)

This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost as a single annual procedure.

Compost · Planting

Multi-purpose compost

Use a good quality peat-free multi-purpose compost when growing in pots and containers.