I just recently received a six pack of the plant heliotrope iowa. I am growing them in six individual hanging baskets,and I am going to keep them in my house. Will they die off at the end of the summer,or will they last for a time? Wpuld this plant be considered a perennial if kept in the house? When I put them in the hanging baskets I gave them some osmocote. Is this okay? I usually do okay with the outside plants,but this is my first time with an indoor plant. Any help or advise would be greatly appreciated. Thank-you. Robin |
Heliotrope arborescens "Iowa" is often marketed and sold as an annual for growing outdoors in cold winter climates. It is however a perennial plant and can become almost shrubby with age. It is considered hardy in zones 9 and warmer, so as a houseplant you may be able to keep it going for quite some time. The slow release fertilizer is fine as long as you follow the label directions for the correct amount to use. During the winter, give them as much light as possible as they need sun to stay healthy. If they become leggy, shear them back in early spring to stimulate fresh new growth. Enjoy your heliotropes! |