Butterfly Flower - Angel Wings Mix (Garden Festival)

How to Grow Butterfly Flower (Angel Wings)

Butterfly Flower, also known as Angel Wings or Schizanthus, is a stunning plant with orchid-like flowers in vibrant colors. It is popular in gardens for its unique, intricate blooms and long flowering period. Here’s a guide on how to grow and care for Butterfly Flowers (Angel Wings):

1. Choosing the Right Location

1. Sunlight: Butterfly flowers thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. They need at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow well, but in hotter climates, partial shade during the hottest part of the day can prevent wilting.
2. Soil: They prefer well-drained, fertile soil. Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0) is ideal.

2. Sowing Seeds

1. Timing: Butterfly flower seeds are best sown indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost if you live in colder areas. In warmer climates, you can directly sow seeds outdoors in early spring.
2. Seed Depth: Plant the seeds about 1/8 inch (3mm) deep and lightly cover with soil.
3. Germination: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Seeds typically germinate in 2-4 weeks under temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F).
4. Transplanting: Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting them into the garden or containers.

3. Planting and Spacing

1. Spacing: Transplant the seedlings into the garden with a spacing of about 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.
2. Plant Depth: Ensure that the crown of the plant (where the stem meets the root system) is at soil level.

4. Watering

1. Watering Needs: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the growing season. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

5. Fertilization

1. Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

6. Maintenance and Pruning

1. Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.
2. Pruning: Trim back leggy growth to maintain a bushy, compact shape. Butterfly flowers tend to grow tall, so some staking might be necessary.

7. Pests and Diseases

1. Pests: Keep an eye out for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Use neem oil (such as your brand, Neemboli) or insecticidal soap to treat infestations.
2. Diseases: Watch out for fungal diseases like powdery mildew, which can develop in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering.

8. Temperature and Climate

1. Ideal Conditions: Butterfly flowers prefer cooler temperatures and do best in spring and fall. They can tolerate mild frosts but will suffer in extreme heat, so keep them in cooler spots or provide afternoon shade in hotter regions.

9. Blooming Time

1. Flowering: Butterfly flowers bloom from late spring to early fall. Their intricate, butterfly-shaped flowers will last longer if grown in optimal conditions.

10. Growing in Containers

1. Container Size: Use containers that are at least 6-8 inches deep with good drainage holes.
2. Soil: A high-quality potting mix with good drainage is essential for container plants.
3. Watering: Water containers more frequently than garden plants, as soil in pots dries out faster.

With proper care and attention, your Butterfly Flowers will reward you with a beautiful display of colorful, butterfly-like blooms.