Thunbergia alata

Spring-Autumn · Indoors

Feed with houseplant food monthly

Give the plant a balanced houseplant feed monthly while in growth.

Where food elements are listed as three numeric values on the label representing in order Nitrogen(N)-Phosphorus(P)-Potassium(K), with percentage values for each, choose one where the values are more or less equal.

Spring-Autumn · Indoors

Water regularly during growth

Water regularly while in growth.

Adopt a regime that means the plants are thoroughly watered every week so that they do not become dessicated. In hot weather watering may need to be more frequent, but less often in cool or moist conditions.

Spring - late · Outdoors

Feed with slow release fertiliser

Apply a general purpose slow release fertiliser, spreading it around the root area of the plant as it is coming 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.

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-Autumn · Planting

Support young plants

Provide support for young plants, and tie in any growth to the support to keep it tidy.

Winter-Spring · Indoors

Water lightly in winter

The soil should remain just moist during the cold months when the plant is not in growth. Trickle a little water onto the soil surface every couple of weeks if the soil is dry. Do nothing if it is moist.

The roots remain active in winter and benefit from small amounts of moisture so they don't become completely desiccated.

Winter - late · Planting

Prune to maintain the plant

Remove and dead or damaged branches or any growth that looks very untidy. Trim the plant back if necessary to keep it within bounds.

Compost · Planting

Loam based houseplant compost for repotting

Buy container or house plant compost that is loam based if possible (i.e. is based on John Innes compost number 2 or 3. This contains more fertiliser and is better suited to established plants.

John Innes no. 1 has the lowest level of fertiliser and is used for seedlings and young plants, so is generally used where plants will be 'potted on' after a number of weeks.

Indoor temperature · Planting

7C minimum temperature

This plant requires a minimum temperature of 7 Centigrade.

Indoor plant · Planting

Position in a bright spot, no direct sun

Give this a bright position away from the direct sun, especially direct sun at the height of the day. (Direct sunshine is too hot and can burn the leaves.) Move the plant to a brighter position in the room during winter and early spring.