Quick Reference Planting Guide

Plant Specifications

Company Information and Warranty

Ultimate Innovations is committed to customer satisfaction. The "Let's Get Growing Warranty" offers a one-year warranty on perennials and a 90-day warranty on annuals from the time of shipment. For any issues, contact Ultimate Innovations immediately. They will attempt to replace the plant with a similar or comparable one, at their discretion, depending on availability. Contact them at 949-492-8191 or email PlantHelp@ShopDePalma.com with any questions after receiving your plants.

Important Cautionary Notes: Do not assume any plant is safe to eat. Only consume parts of plants expressly grown for consumption. Care should be taken to ensure small children and pets do not ingest any part of a plant not intended for consumption. Unless specifically stated, this product is intended for ornamental horticultural use only and not for ingestion by humans or pets. While most plants are harmless, some contain toxic substances that can cause adverse health effects. Individuals and animals may be sensitive or allergic to certain plants; take precautions to limit or avoid physical contact. Some plants have thorns or spines that can be painful if handled.

In case of ingestion, contact a poison control center immediately: 1-800-222-1222.

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Getting Started: Out of the Box and Planting

Out of the Box

Your plants have been shipped in pots. Remove them from the packaging immediately and plant them as soon as possible following the instructions below. If immediate planting is not possible, follow these steps:

1. Remove plants from their clam shell packaging and place them in a sunny location.
2. Keep the plants well watered.

Note: Some leaves may appear wilted or yellow upon arrival due to shipping stress. This is normal. Water the plant and allow it to recover in a shady location for a few days. Gently remove any foliage that does not recover to encourage new growth.

Plants are shipped in 2.5-inch pots. Plant size may vary based on growing conditions.

Planting Instructions

Important: Thoroughly hydrate the plant by submerging the root zone in a container of water for 10 minutes while you prepare for planting.

1. Remove the plant from its clam shell packaging.
2. After watering, remove the pot by holding the plant upside down in one hand and gently squeezing the sides of the pot with the other.
3. Prepare the root ball for planting by gently disturbing the surface roots with your fingers, a fork, or a gardening tool. Prune any damaged roots to encourage outward growth into the new soil.
4. Dig a hole that is twice as deep and twice as wide as the plant's root ball. Partially backfill the hole with soil and place the plant into it. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding ground. Refill the hole with soil, firming it around the plant with your fingers. Ensure the plant is not planted too deeply; if it is, carefully raise it and re-firm the soil.
5. Water thoroughly.

Soil Preparation

It is recommended to have your soil tested periodically by your local County Extension Office (visit nifa.usda.gov/extension or call 1-800-333-4636). A soil test can identify necessary amendments for optimal plant growth and performance.

Ideal garden soil is easy to dig, drains well, and retains essential nutrients and water. For in-ground planting, spade or till the soil to a depth of approximately 12-18 inches. Then, spread a 2-4 inch layer of organic matter, such as compost, shredded leaves, or peat moss, over the soil and mix it in thoroughly.

Continuing Care

Watering

Consistent watering is crucial during the plant's first year. Infrequent, deep soakings that thoroughly saturate the soil are more effective than frequent, light applications. Watering schedules vary by location and conditions. Avoid letting the soil or the original root ball dry out completely. During the first summer, watering may be needed every few days during periods of drought or extreme heat. To check if watering is needed, dig a few inches into the soil next to the plant; if it is dry 2-3 inches below the surface, it is time to water.

Over-watering can be as detrimental as under-watering. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent water from accumulating around the plant. If planting in a container, always use one with drainage holes to prevent root rot.

Once established, plants can tolerate drier conditions.

Mulching

Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic matter, such as shredded bark, compost, leaves, or straw, around your plants. Mulch helps retain moisture, maintain even soil temperatures, and suppress weeds. Replenish mulch as needed.

Weeding

Keep the area around your plants free of weeds, as they compete for food, water, and light. Periodically walk through the garden and pull weeds, including their roots, as soon as they appear.

Feeding

Feed your plants every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a water-soluble fertilizer. Discontinue feeding after September 1st to allow plants to harden off for winter dormancy. Resume fertilizing in spring when new growth emerges.

Pruning

Cupheas are self-cleaning, meaning deadheading is not required for continuous flowering. To encourage bushier growth and a more compact form, you can prune or pinch back plants in late spring. This promotes more branching and, consequently, more flowers.

Winterizing

In frost-free climates, Cuphea can be grown as an evergreen perennial or as a houseplant. In colder regions, containerized plants should be moved to an unheated, protected area like a garage or cellar before temperatures drop below freezing. Check soil moisture every 2-3 weeks and water as needed during winter. Cuphea can also be used as a houseplant or in a hanging basket.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I Plant My Cuphea?

Plant in late spring after the last frost. Choose a location with full sun or partial shade and compost-rich, well-drained soil. In hot, dry summers, Cupheas benefit from some afternoon shade.

Where Should I Plant My Cuphea?

Cupheas are well-suited for full sun or partial shade beds, borders, and gardens designed for butterflies and hummingbirds. They are beautiful in hanging baskets or planters. Cuphea also complements other mixed annuals or perennials.

FAQ

Cuphea is an excellent choice for gardens and is also well-suited for outdoor pots and containers. Its spreading habit makes it ideal as a 'spiller' in container combinations, gracefully cascading over the pot edges. This plant requires relatively low maintenance and is best tidied up in early spring before its active growth period begins. It is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your yard.

A small image of a potted plant showing foliage and potential flower buds is present on this page.