Autumn care of Penstemons in pots and containers

Penstemon display at a local plant show

It is that time of year here again when the autumn plant shows are on. I remember when we participated it was always such a buzz, getting the plants ready for shows and trying to keep everything top notch. We're big fans of the televised shows that Gardener's World and the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) do and joked to ourselves that we felt like we were getting ready for Chelsea. When we arrived we would set up our stall and then wander around all of the other exhibitors to see what was looking good, what was new and of course get first option at buying more plants. All of the exhibitors do the same, that is they choose their best plants for the show, c'est logic!

This week I've been propagating and sorting out the plants in the polytunnel. Although we don't now do the shows we are still open until the end of October after which we will be closed until the beginning of next year. What we do in between is all preparation and getting orders ready with as much garden maintenance as possible.

With this in mind this post is about how to care for potted Penstemons or Penstemons planted in any other containers.

In the garden you notice the plants changing, becoming autumnal. Paradoxically you notice all of the new growth also (if you look close enough). Penstemons, being long flowering, are still looking good at this time of year. The variety does make a different however and I'll come back to that. In contrast the potted Penstemons haven't got the surrounding plants of the garden to hide there less attractive leaves and so at first glance can look very shabby.

Penstemon Husker's Red with the dead headed flower stems still on

If you grow Penstemons in pots or large containers or if you are shopping for Penstemons (which invariably are in pots when bought) here are my tips on what to look out for and how to keep them looking good.

Penstemon Huskers Red flowers

• Know your variety http://www.penstemonsandherbs.com/Penstemon-Facts(2850801).htm
• When dead heading the plants get bushier and develop new growth as well as producing more flowers. In pots I would deadhead to around half the length of the flowering stem and to a point where there is healthy new growth.
• If the bottom leaves of the plant are dead and brown but the tip is healthy and growing I would remove the dead leaves, using my fingers, and leave the stems above. This keeps some height to the plant. It gives you good propagation material for future cuttings. It protects the base of the plant over winter.
• Look out for the new growth (like in spring) that is coming from the base of the plant. This will grow and produce and produce a fuller plant.
• If there are any dead and brittle stems cut them out using sharp secateurs.
• Remove spent flower heads that may have dropped down.
• Top feed with fresh compost.
• Do not over water Penstemons.Good drainage is essential.

Your potted Penstemons will now be content for winter.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this post.

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