Fuchsia is a flowering plant that comes in many varieties. Fuchsias can be used as border plants and hedges. They can even be used in flower beds and containers. Their ornamental flowers and emerald green foliage makes them every gardener’s favorite.

Fuchsia can be either deciduous or evergreen in nature depending on the variety. It is known for its pendent like attractive flowers. Fuchsia plants are perennials that can tolerate shade and produce abundant flowers. The distinct shape of flowers and vibrant colors attract a lot of butterflies and humming birds. The plant bears purple, pink or red colored flowers during late spring till early autumn season. Due to their flowering pattern, fuchsias are quite common for summer flower- bed addition. The hardy varieties of Fuchsia can also be used as hedge plants.

All Fuchsia varieties, be it hardy or standard one, have similar requirements. They should be grown in fertile and well- drained soil for best results. The soil should be kept moist at all times but not soggy or waterlogged as it can damage the plant. Fuchsia plants prefer shade during the hottest time of the day and they should preferably be planted in areas that receive partial sunlight. They should be grown in a location that is protected from direct cold and drying winds.

Fuchsia plants need a lot of protection and care during winter season as they are quire prone to frost damage. To minimize the risk of damage caused by frost, it is advisable to cover the soil with mulch before winter season arrives. Mulching helps in protecting the roots and maintaining the temperature of soil. You can fertilize the plants two to three times during the blooming period to ensure that the flowers grow with vigor. An all-purpose fertilizer does well however; you can also use NPK fertilizer to provide essential nutrients to the plant. It is advisable to use recommended quantities as over-fertilization can harm the plants.

You might have to provide support to the young plant by tying its stem to a cane or stake. Once the plant starts to develop and establish then you can get rid of the support. During the initial growth period, it is recommended to pinch the side shoots. Do not remove leaves on the main stem but pinch of the side shoots to ensure that the plant grows rapidly and becomes strong. A full grown fuchsia plant would need occasional pruning to maintain the desired shape and size.