Nemesia

2024 Author: Gavin MacAdam | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 13:38

Nemesia (lat. Nemesia) - a fairly large genus of flowering plants; belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. The genus includes almost 50 species, which in their natural environment are found mainly in South Africa. Typical habitats - coastal zones. The name of the genus is given in honor of the constellation called Nemesis.

Characteristics of culture

Nemesia is represented by annuals and perennials, as well as dwarf shrubs, which bear simple, opposite, lanceolate or linear foliage, jagged along the edge. Flowers, in turn, are formed in huge numbers, they can be single or collected in large apical inflorescences, the palette of shades is varied and depends solely on the species and variety.

Blooming nemesia is observed throughout the summer until the end of September, in warm countries - until mid-October and longer. Fruits are represented by capsules, endowed with a large number of small, black, elongated seeds, equipped with a white seed plant. Seeds remain viable for up to two years, after the expiration of the specified period they do not hatch.

Most of the types of nemesia are actively used in ornamental gardening. Annual plants are especially often used. They are suitable for the formation of all types of flower beds, including ridges, borders, mixborders and groups along lawns. Some types and varieties are suitable for decorating a balcony, porch and gazebo. They thrive in garden containers and containers.

Growing features

Many types of nemesia are by their nature warm and sun-loving plants, however, cold-resistant varieties can also be found on sale that are not too whimsical to growing conditions. It is preferable to plant nemesia in well-lit and heated areas, but with protection from the scorching rays of the sun at midday. If you miss the rule, most likely, the greens will quickly wither, and the flowers will form small and unsightly.

Soils for cultivation are desirable light, moderately moist, fertile, neutral. Calcareous, heavy, clayey, waterlogged and overly acidic soils are extremely detrimental to the health of the crop. Also unsuitable for planting are areas endowed with saline and waterlogged soils, and lowlands with stagnant cold air.

Caring for the culture is uncomplicated. It includes standard procedures. But special attention should be paid to watering. In no case should the soil be allowed to dry out. During dry periods, it is worth doubling the volume of water. To extend the flowering process for a longer period, it is important to shorten the flowering shoots as they bloom. As a rule, this very manipulation is carried out in the second or third decade of July and further until it blooms completely.

Annual species of nemesia are propagated only by the seed method. Sowing is carried out in open ground with subsequent thinning. It is not forbidden to sow crops for seedlings, but immediately in separate pots. Perennial species, including semi-shrubs, are propagated both by seeds and vegetatively, that is, by cuttings. They are cut at the end of August and stored in the basement or planted in an insulated greenhouse.

Nemesia is resistant to diseases and pests. In some unfavorable years, it can be affected by fungal diseases, including powdery mildew. The disease manifests itself as a white bloom that forms on foliage and shoot tips. Later, it becomes similar to gray or brown felt. With untimely intervention, the felt spots thicken, and the plant dies. Powdery mildew is usually triggered by high air humidity and excess nitrogen in the soil.