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How to Hang Torenia

Torenia is a warm-season, flowering annual that belongs within the family Scrophulariaceae. This southeastern Asian native grows well throughout U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Map zones 6 through 9. Several cultivars exist, growing anywhere from 4 to 12 inches tall. The plant's trumpet-like flowers are velvety and range from solid colors of white and yellow to mixes of white, purple and pink. These plants flower most profusely throughout the summer. Torenia's thin branches make the plant well suited for hanging baskets, as it will flow over the sides; it also works well in mixed beds.

Things You'll Need

  • Hanging basket
  • Potting mix
  • Water
  • Fertilizer
  • Pruning shears
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Instructions

    • 1

      Plant the torenia plant inside a hanging basket that has drain holes, as it will die if planted in containers that retain water. Consider the particular cultivar's mature spread when selecting a container; some varieties, such as Torenia fournieri, will spread up to 12 inches. When using a standard 12-inch diameter container, consider planting two plants inside of it for proper root spacing.

    • 2

      Remove the hanger from the hanging basket. This makes filling the container and placing the plants inside of it easier.

    • 3

      Fill the container half-full with a rich, well-draining potting mix. Torenia prefers growing in soils that drain well and are rich in organic materials.

    • 4

      Remove the torenia from its container and examine the root ball. Gently pull the roots apart by hand if they're bunched together.

    • 5

      Place the torenia inside the hanging basket, spacing multiple plants evenly inside it. Fill the remainder of the basket with soil and pat it down firmly around the plant's base.

    • 6

      Water the hanging basket after planting, allowing water to run from its bottom. Continue watering the torenia plants regularly, keeping the soil moist. Torenia grows, blossoms and looks best when given regular water applications.

    • 7

      Replace the hanger back onto the basket. Situate the plant in a sunny location, if you are located in the northern portion of its growing range. Those living within its southern range should situate the hanging basket in a location that receives partial sun throughout the day.

    • 8

      Fertilizer plants every two to three weeks with a water-soluble, bloom-boosting fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the package's instructions. Torenia flowers and grows best with regular fertilizer applications high in potassium.

    • 9

      Deadhead spent flowers to promote the torenia to produce more blooms. Pinch off the branch ends to thicken the plant.