Portulaca, also known as moss rose, time flower or purslane, is a vibrant and low-maintenance flowering plant. Here is a guide on how to plant, grow and care for portulaca flowers:
1. Choose the right location: Portulaca thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil. Choose a spot or container in your garden that gets good sunlight every day.
2. Prepare the soil: Mix 60% normal soil, 20% sand and 20% compost. It is good to add 1 spoon of bone powder and 2 spoons of neemkhol.
3. Planting: Collect purslane seedlings or cuttings from a nursery. Plant portulaca tips or seedlings directly into the soil or in tubs at planting time. Space the plants about 6-8 inches apart, depending on the tub variety.
4. Water: Portulaca is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions. Water the plants sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, so avoiding wet soil is essential.
5. Fertilizing: Portulaca does not require much fertilizer. You can make a balanced fertilizer yourself. For example, mix 4-5 spoons of bone powder, 4-5 spoons of dry banana peel powder, 1 spoon of anukhad, 1 spoon of turmeric powder and give it to the plant once a month in the morning/evening. Mix at half-strength during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
6. Pest and Disease Control: Portulaca is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, watch out for aphids, spider mites and snails, which can occasionally be a problem. Therefore, mix 1 liter of water with 30 ml, neem oil, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and spray it 1-2 times a month.
7. Winter Care: In cooler climates, portulaca is often grown as an annual. However, in warmer regions, it can survive as a perennial. If you grow it as an annual, plant new seedlings every year. In colder regions, you can try bringing potted portulaca indoors during the winter months or cover outdoor plants with mulch for protection.
By following these steps, you can enjoy colorful portulaca flowers in your garden or in containers with minimal effort.