Penstemon

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 in dry periods

Established plants in the ground can cope with 7-10 days of dryness, and shrubs often manage 2 to 3 weeks. Water one section of the garden thoroughly each day rather than a little everywhere. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather.

Spring - early-mid · Planting

Divide when too large

The plant can be divided if it becomes too large or another plant is required. This may involve physically dividing the clump in two, removing offsets or small bulbs or dividing rhizomes. The new plants can be grown in pots or planted in the ground.

Outdoors

Water some varieties differently

Some plants within this genus have additional requirements for water. It is best to look up your specific plant, or the species it belongs to for watering guidance.

Planting

Deadhead blooms during flowering season

Remove flowers as they turn brown and fade. Snip the stem just below the bloom. This will keep the plant tidy and encourage more flowers.

The removal of spent flowers encourages the plant to produce fresh ones, rather than spend its energy on the development of seeds.

Planting

Support some varieties

Some plants within this genus may require support for young plants and/or long stems. It is best to look up your specific plant for guidance, and/or check the label.

Planting

Divide some varieties differently

Some plant varieties within this genus have different requirements for dividing them when they get big. It is best to look up your specific plant, or the species it belongs to for guidance, and/or check the label.