Achimenes

Achimenes love humidity and moisture and should be misted daily to recreate a damp environment. When watering, allow soil to dry out between each watering, but never let it completely dry out as the plant might suffer from wilting. When in bloom, maximum flowering relies on even and regular watering. As with most other plants, avoid any water-logging to prevent root rot.

Achimenes prefers partial shade in its natural habitat, usually with several hours of bright but indirect sunlight. When growing indoors, it is best to place Achimenes near an east, south, or west facing window for ample bright light, ensuring that the direct sunlight does not scorch the plant. Shade cloths can be used to protect from harsh, afternoon sun.

Achimenes prefer temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit (15-24 degrees Celsius). During the night, they enjoy temperatures between 50-65 degrees Fahrenheit (10-18 degrees Celsius). Keep your Achimenes away from areas of cold drafts.

Achimenes require high levels of humidity. In areas with dry air, a humidifier can work wonders or place the plants in pebble-lined trays of water to keep humidity levels up in the air. Increase humidity even more by misting in-between waterings.

Achimenes prefer a soil that is light in texture with good aeration and drainage. A mixture of equal parts peat, sand, and vermiculite is great for Achimenes.

Fertilize your Achimenes with a weak solution of liquid fertilizer once per month during active growth. It is important not to overfertilize your Achimenes—too much fertilizer overloads the plant and can negatively affect its blooms. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a half- strength 12-12-12 formulation, and water well after fertilizing to prevent burning the roots.

Achimenes can suffer from a range of pests, including aphids, mites, mealybugs, and thrips, which can all damage the plant’s leaves and flowers. A light spraying of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil can help prevent and manage pests. Carefully inspect the plant in early Spring to keep an eye out for any signs of pests or disease.

Achimenes should be potted in a well-draining soil mix and repotted when the plant has outgrown the container or the soil has become compacted. As Achimenes go dormant in Winter, repotting should occur in Spring to allow the plant to settle in before it begins to flower again.

Achimenes require very minimal pruning. Remove any brown, dry, or dead flower clusters as well as any damaged leaves. Prune heavily in winter to promote healthy new growth in Spring.

In the outdoors, a layer of loose mulch can help to retain moisture, prevent weeds, and help the plant overwinter. These mulches can be applied sparingly around a enclosed pot.

Achimenes can be propagated in several ways. Easiest of all is Division. That is, simply divide the root ball in several parts, each containing a healthy portion of the rhizome. They can also be propagated from stem cuttings taken from existing plants and from seeds.

As Achimenes are relatively lightweight, they do not require additional support. However, as young plants, small stakes may help provide support as they grow.

Achimenes require a rest period during the Winter to allow the rest of the plant to develop. Cut-back watering and fertilization and move the plant to a cooler location to simulate winter temperatures.

Achimenes is not toxic to pets.