They twine, climb and splash everything with jewel-like color.
“Have them climb along a trellis or fence, trail from containers and window boxes, or crawl along and over a garden bed-wherever they land, these mandevillas sparkle,” Karen says.
Mandevilla prefers temperatures 50 degrees and above, weekly waters and a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks. Repot into a larger container as soon as you bring your new plant home.
Mix it up
For a really lush island look, Weir-Jimerson suggests you pair hibiscus and mandevilla together in the same combo pot or in-ground planting. The more you plant, the more you feel those tropical breezes.
“A humdrum porch becomes a tropical paradise instantly — and with very little fuss,” she says.
Kathy Van Mullekom is garden/home columnist for the Daily Press in Newport News, Va.
©2013 Daily Press (Newport News, Va.)
Distributed by MCT Information Services
