Dutchman's Breeches

Keep soil moist at all times. Dutchman's breeches prefers damp soil and will not cope with dry conditions. Water gently and avoid too much splashing and direct contact with foliage.

Dutchman's Breeches prefers light shade. While full sun is not suitable it will tolerate partial shade or dappled sun. If grown in full shade it may not bloom.

It prefers temperatures between 50 to 75°F (10 to 24°C), and can survive in colder temperatures down to 0°F (-17.7°C). It cannot survive in temperatures higher than 79°F (26°C).

This plant is not particularly fussy about humidity levels, however too low humidity will cause it to dry out quicker than at comfortable levels. It prefers a relative humidity between 40 to 60%.

Dutchman's breeches prefers soil with a pH between 5.5-6.5 with plenty of organic matter. A humus-rich, mulch-laden fertile soil is ideal, with a texture that is light and well drained for good aeration and moisture retention.

It is recommended to fertilize every other month. You can use an all-purpose liquid fertilizer but ensure it has a balanced NPK ratio. If you need to provide additional fertilizer for more vigorous growth, use a slow-release granular fertilizer, applying it at the base of the stem after each pruning.

Aphids, thrips, whitefly, and spider mites are some of the most common pests that affect dutchman's breeches. Keep an eye out for these insects during the warmer months of the year, and if necessary, prune heavily infected stems and leaves and discard of them properly, away form the plant and the garden. If the infestation persists, spraying with a water-soap mixture should help.

You should repot Dutchman's breeches once every two years or when the soil becomes compressed. When repotting, use a general potting soil and transplant to a slightly bigger pot with drainage holes at the bottom. If you're garden is spacious enough, you can divide the plant every couple of years.

Deadheading spent flower heads is recommended as this will help to keep the plant healthy and encourage further blooming. You can prune back any leaves that are dead or dying, if the plant looks old and sparse, you may opt to cut it back by one third in late winter or spring.

Mulching can help to keep the soil damp and cool for longer periods between waterings. Use mulch that has some organic matter to it such as bark chips, pine needles, and leaves for best results.

The more common way to propagate dutchman's breeches is from seed during the late spring or early summer months. You can also divide the root system during the early fall months. Ensure that the root system is kept well watered and is adequately drained to encourage good root and top growth.

These plants don't require much staking, however they may benefit from it during months of heavy rainfall or strong winds. If you feel they need staking, use stakes or wires that are kind to the stems and foliage.

Dutchman's breeches requires a dormant period where the foliage dies back completely, usually in late fall or early winter. This is a necessary part of plant care to ensure the plant's health and growth in the following season.

No, Dutchman's Breeches are not considered to be toxic to animals or humans. They can be grown around children and pets without worry.